Quick Start Guide
Access Free NMLS Licensing Next Steps Resources
This video series is a 7- Part Series by
Real Originate Agent/Loan Officer Shell Peterson.
Available in the Real Originate Learning Center
Don't hesitate to ask any "Next Steps" related questions in the
MLO Licensing Concierge GPT
Step 1: Get your NMLS Number
To begin your mortgage licensing journey, create your personal account through the Nationwide Multi-state Licensing System (NMLS). Visit
Click “Log into NMLS” → “Need an Account.” Select Individual as your account type, complete the form with your legal information, and verify your email to receive your unique NMLS ID number. You’ll use this ID to register for pre-licensing education, schedule your SAFE MLO exam, and apply for your state license. Choose State: Non-Depository for login page
Step 2: Letter of Intent | Name your Sponsor - 4 minutes
Click this link and fill out the Letter of Intent to get you into the system to start building your network prior to getting onboarded into Real Originate
You will name your sponsor into One Real Mortgage during this step.
Your sponsor at One Real Mortgage can be different than your sponsor at Real Broker on the Real Estate side.
It is completely up to you who you choose
Your sponsor may be the person who introduced you to the program and will be responsible for
coaching you on building your network at Real Originate
They should assist with ongoing training and mentorship in attracting other agents and full-time loan officers
into your downline.
You will need their name and email address to complete this step
Step 3: Complete your 20 Hours of Pre-licensing Education
Once you’ve created your NMLS account and received your NMLS ID number, your next step is to complete 20 hours of NMLS-approved pre-licensing education.
Select the New License option, select the time to complete track, your state, and if you want to include Test Prep.
Joining the Real Originate Members Area at the bottom of the page will give you access to video walkthroughs of all the steps.
Click Below to sign up for classes
https://mortgageeducators.com/orm
You’ll find a special 40%-off coupon ORMPE available directly on the page.
Or feel free to choose any other course provider you feel comfortable with.
After completing your coursework, you’ll be eligible to schedule the national SAFE MLO exam and continue your licensing process.
Step 4: Schedule and Study for the NMLS SAFE Exam
After you’ve completed your required state and federal education hours, log back into your NMLS account to schedule your national SAFE MLO exam through the official NMLS testing portal. From there, you can choose your exam date and begin studying to prepare for licensing success.
Joining the Real Originate Members Area at the bottom of the page will give you access to video walkthroughs of all the steps.
Study using the below Youtube video. Make sure you understand everything covered
Optional: Step 5: Take Practice Test until you can get 90%
Test your knowledge retention with a practice test before you take your real test.
There are several test prep programs online.
We recommend
Step 6: Take NMLS SAFE National Exam and get a score of 75% or better
Step 7: Onboarding and Sponsorship
Next Step: Schedule your appointment using the link below to get sponsored and onboarded into the program. This step connects you directly with our team to finalize your registration, confirm your NMLS sponsorship, and begin the official onboarding process.