Virginia MLO License: Requirements, Cost & Steps

How to get your Virginia mortgage loan originator license: NMLS steps, 20-hour course, state fees, background check, and renewal deadlines.

Step-by-step overview of the Virginia mortgage loan originator (MLO) licensing process through NMLS, administered by the Virginia Bureau of Financial Institutions (State Corporation Commission).

Who regulates MLOs in Virginia

The Virginia Bureau of Financial Institutions (State Corporation Commission) issues the Virginia Mortgage Loan Originator License under the federal SAFE Act via NMLS. Federally insured depository MLOs register with NMLS as federal registrants and do not hold a state MLO license.

Application steps

  1. Create your NMLS individual account.
  2. Complete SAFE-approved pre-licensing education (20-hour national course plus any Virginia-specific hours).
  3. Pass the SAFE MLO Test with Uniform State Content.
  4. Order NMLS fingerprints and credit report.
  5. File the MU4 requesting the Virginia license and pay fees.
  6. Have a licensed Virginia company file sponsorship on your MU4.
  7. Respond to license-item requests from Virginia Bureau of Financial Institutions (State Corporation Commission).
  8. Receive an Approved status and begin originating.

Annual renewal

State-licensed MLOs renew annually during the NMLS renewal period (November 1 – December 31), complete SAFE-approved continuing education, maintain active sponsorship, and meet any Virginia-specific renewal items.

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