For mortgage loan officers (MLOs), staying compliant and maintaining a valid license is a crucial part of the job. Continuing education (CE) is a critical requirement for MLOs to maintain their licenses. 

However, life happens, and sometimes CE requirements may fall by the wayside. If you’ve missed the CE deadline, don’t worry – you’re not alone. And there’s absolutely a path forward. 

If you find yourself in this situation, late continuing education (Late CE) is your pathway to compliance and ensuring you can continue working in the mortgage industry. With Late CE, you can get back on track, continue doing what you love, and ensure you’re meeting your professional goals. 

Here’s everything MLOs need to know about completing Late CE with confidence, including steps, tips, and strategies. 

What is Late CE? 

Late CE refers to the Continuing Education courses that MLOs can take after the regular CE deadline to meet state and federal licensing requirements. It is designed specifically for those who did not complete their CE on time and need to reinstate their licenses. 

Late CE courses are approved by the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System & Registry (NMLS) and are designed to help you catch up, stay informed, and keep your career moving. Unlike standard CE courses, Late CE often has a unique curriculum and is reported as Late CE to ensure regulatory compliance. 

Late CE is tailored to meet the requirements of license reinstatement, making it an essential tool for MLOs who need to renew expired licenses or continue working in compliance with state and federal regulations. 

Why Completing Late CE Matters for MLOs 

How to Complete Your Late CE 

1. Confirm Your Requirements 

Begin by reviewing your NMLS profile to confirm how many CE hours you need to complete. Check with your state-specific requirements, as standards can vary depending on where you’re licensed.  

Each state has specific licensing rules and CE requirements. Understanding exactly what’s required will help you map out your plan. 

You should verify: 

2. Choose an NMLS-Approved Late CE Provider 

Not all CE courses are created equal, and not all CE providers offer Late CE courses. Make sure to choose an NMLS-approved course provider that meets state and federal guidelines for Late CE. 

Providers with easily accessible, online platforms can be a game-changer for busy professionals. Use the NMLS-approved course provider directory to find a provider that offers Late CE. Ensure the course is marked as “Late CE” and matches your state’s requirements. 

When selecting a provider, look for options that offer: 

3. Enroll in and Complete the Correct Late CE Courses 

Late CE courses are time-specific and correspond to the year in which you missed your CE requirements. For example, if you failed to meet your CE requirements for 2023, you’ll need to complete a 2023 Late CE course. These backdated courses are essential for reinstating your compliance. 

Late CE courses typically include the same content as standard CE but are reported differently. Complete the courses promptly, as delays may lead to extended licensing lapses. 

Topics often include: 

4. Submit Completion Records to NMLS 

Once you’ve successfully completed your Late CE, the course provider will report your education credits directly to the NMLS. Ensure the course provider has submitted this on your behalf and double-check your NMLS profile to confirm your CE hours have been logged. 

5. Reapply for License Reinstatement 

If your license has expired due to missed CE completion, you’ll have to apply for reinstatement through the NMLS. This process confirms that you’ve fulfilled all necessary educational requirements and are ready to resume operations. 

Late CE often comes with reinstatement fees, which vary by state. Be prepared to pay these fees when submitting your reinstatement application. 

6. Set Yourself Up for Success Moving Forward 

Life gets busy, and deadlines can sneak up on you. Going forward, set reminders for upcoming CE deadlines and consider completing your courses early to avoid the stress of falling behind.  

Staying proactive with your continuing education shows your commitment to your profession and sets you apart as a reliable, knowledgeable MLO. 

Tips for Successfully Completing Late CE 

Reframe Missing CE as an Opportunity 

Missing CE deadlines happens, and while it may feel like a setback, it’s also an opportunity to refocus and re-energize your career. By completing Late CE, you’re not just meeting compliance standards – you’re committing to being the best MLO you can be. 

Every course you take is another step toward becoming a more informed, confident, and accomplished professional. Your clients trust you for guidance on life’s most significant purchase – a home. Staying informed and educated empowers you to provide that service at the highest level. 

How We Can Support You 

Completing Late CE demonstrates your commitment to staying informed and compliant, which ultimately benefits your clients and career. By understanding the requirements, choosing the right courses, and acting quickly, you can navigate the process smoothly and get back to originating loans with confidence. 

At OnCourse Learning, we believe that keeping your career on track should be as seamless as possible. That’s why we offer NMLS-approved Late CE designed specifically for busy MLOs like you. 

Our Late CE courses are flexible, informative, and focused on your success. 

We’re more than just a CE provider – we’re your partner in professional growth. Whether you’re catching up on Late CE or planning ahead for next year’s requirements, we’re here to support your success. 

Stay proactive, stay compliant, and take control of your professional growth. With the right tools and resources, you’ll be back on track and better than ever in no time.