HowToGetLicensed

Mortgage Loan Officer License: California vs New York

Thinking about getting your mortgage loan officer license? Here's how California and New York compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.

Requirement California New York
Education Hours 20 hours 20 hours
Exam NMLS SAFE MLO Test NMLS SAFE MLO Test
Application Fee $330 $600
Exam Fee $110 $110
Total Estimated Cost $1,000 - $2,000 $1,300 - $2,300
Renewal Period Every 1 year Every 1 year
CE Hours 8 hours 8 hours
Renewal Fee $330 $600

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: California is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $1,000-$2,000 compared to $1,300-$2,300.

Education: Both states require 20 hours of education.

Full State Guides

Compare mortgage loan officer requirements across all 50 states →