HowToGetLicensed

Mortgage Loan Officer License: California vs Pennsylvania

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

Requirement California Pennsylvania
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 $900 - $1,900
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: Pennsylvania is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $900-$1,900 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 →