Mortgage Loan Officer License: California vs Illinois
Thinking about getting your mortgage loan officer license? Here's how California and Illinois compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.
| Requirement | California | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Education Hours | 20 hours | 20 hours |
| Exam | NMLS SAFE MLO Test | NMLS SAFE MLO Test |
| Application Fee | $330 | $300 |
| Exam Fee | $110 | $110 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1,000 - $2,000 | $800 - $1,800 |
| Renewal Period | Every 1 year | Every 1 year |
| CE Hours | 8 hours | 8 hours |
| Renewal Fee | $330 | $300 |
Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?
Lower cost: Illinois is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $800-$1,800 compared to $1,000-$2,000.
Education: Both states require 20 hours of education.
Full State Guides
Compare mortgage loan officer requirements across all 50 states →