2025 NMLS Continuing Education Requirements: What Every MLO Needs to Know
- Nathan Knottingham
- Sep 5
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 17
Let’s be real—mortgage CE isn’t exactly anyone’s idea of fun. It’s like eating your vegetables: necessary, but not the highlight of your day.
But here’s the thing: knowing exactly what you need for your state can save you time, money, and last-minute stress. At MLO Force, we make NMLS Continuing Education (CE) simple, engaging, and—dare we say—fun. Whether you’re getting CE out of the way early (gold star for you 🏆) or pushing up against the deadline, this guide breaks down everything you need to stay compliant in 2025.
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What Is 2025 NMLS Continuing Education (CE) and Why Do You Need It?
If you’re a licensed mortgage loan originator (MLO), the NMLS requires annual CE to maintain your license. This isn’t just busy work—it keeps you sharp on federal regulations, ethics, and lending best practices.
🚨 Miss the CE deadline and your license risks going into reinstatement mode. That means extra fees, stress, and possibly even re-doing pre-licensing.
The Golden Rule:
✅ MLOs must complete CE annually between November 1st and December 31st to avoid late penalties.
How Many Hours of CE Do You Need in 2025?
The standard requirement of 2025 NMLS Continuing Education is 8 hours total, but some states pile on extra hours.
Core CE (Required Nationwide)
✅ 3 Hours – Federal Law & Regulations
✅ 2 Hours – Ethics (Fraud, Consumer Protection, Fair Lending)
✅ 2 Hours – Non-Traditional Mortgage Products
✅ 1 Hour – General Electives
State-Specific CE (Additional Hours by State)
Some states require you to go beyond the 8-hour minimum:
Texas: Standard 8 hours (no extras).
California: +1 hour of CA-specific law = 9 total.
New Jersey: +2 hours state law + 1 elective = 12 total.
👉 Not sure what your state requires? MLO Force shows you the exact breakdown by state the moment you sign up.
What Happens If You Miss the CE Deadline?
Don’t panic—but don’t drag your feet either.
🚨 Jan 1–Feb 28: “Reinstatement Mode.” Complete CE + pay a late fee.
🚨 March 1 and beyond: Missed CE = possible 20-hour pre-licensing retake and reapplication. (Yikes.)
Pro Tip: Don’t wait until December. Get it done early and skip the reinstatement headache.
Why Choose MLO Force for Your 2025 CE?
There are plenty of CE providers out there. Most of them… well, let’s be honest: they suck. Here’s why thousands of MLOs are switching to MLO Force:
✅ Podcast-Style Learning – No dry PowerPoints. No monotone droning. Just real pros teaching real mortgage content.
✅ Only Buy What You Need – Federal + state CE bundles built exactly for your license.
✅ Concierge-Level Support – Need help with CE, renewal, or NMLS reporting? Our team’s got you.
✅ Instant NMLS Reporting – Finish your CE and your credits are reported fast—no delays.
✅ Trusted by Industry Leaders – HousingWire, AIME, NAMB, and more partner with MLO Force.
Ready to Knock Out Your CE?
Your license—and your sanity—deserve better than another year of boring CE. Join thousands of loan officers who’ve made the switch to MLO Force: fast, fun, NMLS-approved CE.
The Fun Side of CE
Let’s face it. CE can feel like a chore. But it doesn’t have to be. With MLO Force, you can enjoy the process. Our courses are designed to be engaging and informative. You’ll find yourself learning without the usual eye-rolling.
Imagine sipping your coffee while absorbing valuable information. Sounds better than a dull lecture, right? Plus, you’ll be able to impress your colleagues with your newfound knowledge.
The Importance of Staying Updated
In the fast-paced world of mortgage lending, staying updated is crucial. Regulations change, new products emerge, and ethical standards evolve. By completing your CE, you ensure that you’re always in the loop.
This not only helps you maintain your license but also boosts your confidence. You’ll be equipped to handle client inquiries and challenges with ease.
Make It a Habit
Think of CE as part of your professional routine. Just like regular exercise, it keeps your skills sharp. Set aside time each year to focus on your education. You’ll find that it becomes easier over time.
And hey, who knows? You might even start to enjoy it!
Join the MLO Force Community
When you choose MLO Force, you’re not just signing up for courses. You’re joining a community of like-minded professionals. Share tips, ask questions, and support each other in your learning journey.
We’re here to make your CE experience as enjoyable as possible. So why wait?
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