Continuing education (CE) is a pivotal element in the professional development of Mortgage Loan Originators (MLOs). Not only is it a regulatory requirement to maintain your MLO license, but it also offers an opportunity to deepen your expertise, stay abreast of industry changes, and enhance your career prospects. Selecting the right CE course tailored to your learning preferences and career goals can make a significant difference in your professional journey.
What Are the CE Requirements for MLOs?
To maintain your license as an MLO, the SAFE Act requires annual continuing education courses. Here’s what most MLOs need to complete each year:
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3 hours of federal law and regulations
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2 hours of ethics (fraud, consumer protection, fair lending)
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2 hours of non-traditional mortgage lending
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1 hour of elective topics
Some states require additional hours. For example:
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If you're renewing your loan originator license in Florida, you'll need a 7-hour national course plus 1 hour of NMLS continuing education specific to Florida.
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If you're a loan officer in Colorado, you're only required to complete the standard 8-hour national CE course.
How can I find out what CE I need? Use OnCourse Learning’s Smart Search course selector to see your exact state and NMLS CE requirements. It provides a personalized list of NMLS-approved continuing education courses, so you stay compliant and on track.
How to Choose the Best CE Course Format for You
Continuing education courses are offered in various formats to accommodate different learning styles and schedules. Understanding the nuances of each can help you select the most effective and convenient option:
1. Online Self-Paced CE Courses
Description: These courses allow you to study the material independently, progressing at your own pace within a specified timeframe.
Pros:
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Flexibility: Ideal for individuals with unpredictable schedules or those who prefer to learn at their own speed.
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Accessibility: Course materials are typically available 24/7, enabling you to study whenever it's most convenient.
Cons:
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Self-Discipline Required: Without set class times, it requires a high level of self-motivation to complete the course on schedule.
OnCourse Learning offers an 8 Hour SAFE Comprehensive: Mortgage Loan Originator 2025 CE (Online) course in a self-paced format, covering all necessary topics for license renewal.
2. Online Self-Paced Video CE Courses
Description: These courses feature pre-recorded video content, allowing you to engage with visual and auditory materials at your convenience.
Pros:
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Engaging Content: Video presentations can make complex topics more digestible and engaging.
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Visual Learning: Beneficial for learners who retain information better through visual and auditory means.
Cons:
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Internet Dependence: Requires a stable internet connection to stream or download video content.
The 8 Hour SAFE Comprehensive: Mortgage Loan Originator 2025 CE (Video) course by OnCourse Learning provides a comprehensive video-based learning experience.
3. CE Webinars
Description: Live, instructor-led sessions conducted online at scheduled times, often allowing for real-time interaction and Q&A.
Pros:
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Interactive Experience: Opportunity to ask questions and engage in discussions with instructors and peers.
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Structured Schedule: Fixed class times can help keep you accountable and on track.
Cons:
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Less Flexibility: Requires availability at specific times, which may not suit everyone's schedule.
OnCourse Learning's 8 Hour SAFE Comprehensive: Mortgage Loan Originator 2025 CE (Webinar) offers live instruction with opportunities for interaction.
4. Live CE Courses
Description: Traditional in-person classes held at physical locations, providing face-to-face instruction.
Pros:
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Direct Interaction: Immediate access to instructors and networking opportunities with fellow professionals.
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Structured Environment: A classroom setting can enhance focus and facilitate hands-on learning experiences.
Cons:
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Geographical Limitations: Availability may be restricted based on your location.
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Fixed Schedule: Requires commitment to attend sessions at specific times and places.
Example: For those preferring in-person learning, research classroom-based CE courses near you with OnCourse Learning’s Smart Search tool.
Choosing the Right CE Provider: Why OnCourse Learning Stands Out
Selecting a reputable provider is one of the most important steps in getting the most out of your continuing education courses. The right partner will ensure your CE credits count toward your MLO license renewal and will make the experience more effective and enjoyable. Here's why OnCourse Learning should be at the top of your list:
1. NMLS-Approved and Trusted Nationwide
OnCourse Learning is a fully NMLS-approved provider, which means all of its courses meet the national standards required for license renewal. With a long-standing reputation and thousands of MLOs served each year, you can trust that you’re getting CE that’s compliant, current, and widely recognized.
2. Next-Level Content with a Creative Twist
Most CE courses are all function, no fun. But OnCourse Learning is changing that. Our new Compliance Mysteries series (inspired by Unsolved Mysteries) delivers story-driven, video-based CE that feels more like watching a show than sitting through training.
You’ll explore real mortgage compliance case studies led by expert instructors in a way that’s actually engaging. The best part? It’s 100% self-paced and online, so you can earn your CE credits on your schedule, without sacrificing entertainment or effectiveness.
Think Netflix meets Mortgage CE. This format is perfect for professionals who learn best through storytelling and real-world examples.
3. High-Quality, Relevant Curriculum
Every course offered by OnCourse Learning is designed with working MLOs in mind. The curriculum is frequently updated to reflect new regulations, emerging industry trends, and real compliance challenges, so you walk away with both the knowledge you need, and practical insights you can use.
4. Easy-to-Use Platform
From browsing courses to completing them, the OnCourse Learning experience is built to be smooth and intuitive. The interface is clean, the navigation is simple, and support is always available if you run into any issues. Whether you're a first-time user or a returning MLO, everything is designed to help you complete your CE with confidence and ease.
Ready to make CE actually work for you, and maybe even enjoy it along the way? Explore OnCourse Learning’s full catalog of courses or check out the new video CE series that’s changing the game.
Is OnCourse Learning NMLS Approved?
Yes! OnCourse Learning is an NMLS-approved CE provider. All courses meet national standards and are accepted for license renewal.
What Makes OnCourse Learning Courses Unique?
OnCourse Learning goes beyond the basics with creative, engaging course options, including a brand-new video series that makes CE actually enjoyable.
What is the Compliance Mysteries Video CE Series?
Meet Compliance Mysteries: a self-paced, story-driven CE course inspired by Unsolved Mysteries. This new format makes CE feel more like a true crime documentary than a training.
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Real mortgage case studies
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Expert instructors
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100% online and flexible
Perfect for professionals who want to stay compliant and be entertained.
Summary: How to Choose the Right CE Course
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Confirm your state/NMLS CE requirements
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Choose the course format that matches your learning style
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Look for a trusted, NMLS-approved provider
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Consider options like OnCourse Learning’s new video CE courses for an engaging learning experience
Ready to make CE actually work for you and maybe even enjoy it along the way?
How to Renew Your NMLS License
We guide you through every step, from completing the required 8-hour SAFE MLO Continuing Education to submitting your renewal with confidence.
Uncover the fun side of Mortgage CE
Meet our new Compliance Mysteries series - NMLS CE that feels more like a show than a course.
