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Under the Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing Act (SAFE Act), state-licensed Mortgage Loan Originators (MLOs) are required to complete at least 8 hours of NMLS-approved CE annually.
Some states may have additional state-specific continuing education (CE) requirements.
Once you've completed your CE, your education provider has seven calendar days to report your course completion to the NMLS.
Even experienced professionals can make errors in the CE reporting process. Here are some common mistakes:
Procrastinating CE Completion: Waiting until December to start your CE leaves little room to address any reporting issues.
Failing to Retain Documentation: Failing to keep certificates and course IDs can hinder your ability to resolve discrepancies.
What Does a Mortgage Loan Originator Really Do All Day?
Mortgage loan originators are part advisor, part problem-solver, part deal-closer. Their days are fast-paced, people-focused, and never quite the same.
To stay on track, consider the following quarterly action plan:
Timeframe | Action Item |
---|---|
January–March | Review your state's CE requirements and plan your course schedule. |
April–June | Enroll in NMLS-approved CE courses from a trusted provider. |
July–September | Complete 50–75% of your CE and confirm your completions have posted. |
October–November | Finish all CE and double-check your NMLS transcript for accuracy. |
December | Resolve any discrepancies or errors; avoid waiting until the last week. |
By pacing your CE throughout the year, you can avoid last-minute stress and ensure ample time to address any issues.
Not all NMLS-approved providers offer the same level of reliability. When selecting a CE provider, consider the following:
Timely Reporting: Choose providers that report completions within 7 days.
Confirmation Communications: Opt for providers that offer email confirmations upon CE submission.
Tracking Tools: Providers with real-time tracking dashboards can help you monitor your progress.
Positive Reviews: Seek providers with strong reputations among mortgage professionals.
Responsive Support: U.S.-based customer support can be invaluable when issues arise.
A reliable CE provider prioritizes compliance, helping you avoid last-minute complications and safeguard your license.
Whether you’re renewing your license or leveling up your skills, Aceable Mortgage offers a better way to stay compliant.
Approved and state-compliant
Flexible course design to fit your schedule
Thousands of 5-star reviews from working professionals
Course completion confirmations and responsive support
“This is the most well-run CE provider I’ve dealt with — and I’ve been in the mortgage business 30 years.” — Samuel H.
Coming Soon: Your CE Solution
National and state-specific courses designed to help you renew, grow, and move forward.
Note: This blog post is based on information available as of May 2025. For the most current guidelines and requirements, please refer to the NMLS Resource Center.