United States
Hong KongHow much does the NMLS exam cost?
USD 110 per attempt, paid to NMLS. Retakes cost the same again. The full cost of getting licensed usually lands between USD 400 and USD 800 once the 20-hour course, the background check, the credit report and the state fee are added.
USD 110. That is the exam fee, and it is the same on every attempt.
What the fee buys
An enrollment window of 180 days, not an appointment. Inside that window you book a seat with Prometric and sit the paper.
Fail and the next attempt is another USD 110. There is no discounted retake.
The rest of the bill
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| SAFE MLO test | USD 110 per attempt |
| 20-hour pre-licensure course | USD 199 to 399 |
| Background check and credit report | Charged at application |
| State license fee | Varies by state |
| Extra prep material | USD 50 to 200 |
The course range is what the market charges rather than a published rate. The test fee is NMLS's own.
Cancel later than 11:59pm Eastern two business days before your appointment, or fail to appear, and the enrollment window closes and the USD 110 goes with it.
Where the money actually goes
On retakes, for nearly half of candidates. The first-time pass rate is 53%, so the median candidate should budget for the possibility of a second USD 110 and a 30-day wait.
That is the argument for spending on practice questions rather than saving on them. A second attempt costs more than any prep package and a month besides.
Common questions
How much is the NMLS exam?
USD 110 per attempt, paid to NMLS when you enroll.
Does a retake cost less?
No. Every attempt is USD 110 and opens a fresh 180-day enrollment window.
What does it cost to become an MLO in total?
Usually USD 400 to USD 800 for one state, covering the test, the 20-hour course, the background check, the credit report and the state fee. That range is ours.
Is the 20-hour course included?
No. It is bought separately from an NMLS-approved provider, typically USD 199 to USD 399.
Can I get the fee back if I cancel?
Only if you cancel by 11:59pm Eastern two business days before the appointment. Later than that the fee is forfeited.