How to Become a Licensed Mortgage Broker in Texas

Author

Reads 1.1K

A Client in Agreement with a Mortgage Broker
Credit: pexels.com, A Client in Agreement with a Mortgage Broker

To become a licensed mortgage broker in Texas, you'll need to meet the Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending's (SML) requirements.

You must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. The SML also requires you to have a certain amount of work experience or complete a training program.

To qualify for a mortgage broker license, you'll need to pass a licensing exam. The exam covers topics like mortgage laws, regulations, and ethics.

A background check is also required as part of the licensing process. This includes a review of your credit history and any past criminal convictions.

Becoming a Licensed Mortgage Broker in Texas

To become a licensed mortgage broker in Texas, you'll need to obtain your Texas mortgage company license. This license guarantees that your clients meet all federal and state requirements.

You'll need to complete 23 hours of pre-license education if you're applying through the Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending, or 20 hours if you're applying through the Office of the Consumer Credit Commissioner.

Credit: youtube.com, How To Get Your Texas Mortgage License [Guide Step by Step for Aspiring MLOs and Career Changers]

Federal law requires that all mortgage loan originator applicants successfully finish 20 hours of education through SAFE courses. These can be taken after completing the state-required pre-license education.

The process of becoming a mortgage broker in Texas is completed on the National Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS), regardless of the agency you go through for licensing. You'll also need to complete the process on the NMLS if you want to become a loan officer in Texas.

To apply for your mortgage broker's license in Texas, you'll need to meet experience requirements, apply online, pass a background check, and pass the Texas real estate broker exam. You'll also need to complete 630 credit hours of TREC-approved continuing education courses or qualifying education classes.

Here are the basic requirements to become a mortgage broker in Texas:

  • Finish 270 hours of pre-license education
  • Meet experience requirements
  • Apply to become a mortgage broker in Texas
  • Pass a background check
  • Pass the Texas real estate broker exam

Note that these requirements may vary depending on the agency you're applying through. Be sure to check with each agency about their specific requirements.

Licensing and Certification

Credit: youtube.com, How to Get A Mortgage Originator License 2024 - (How To Become a Mortgage Originator Explained)

To become a licensed mortgage broker in Texas, you'll need to meet the state's licensing requirements. You'll need to take a course on appraisal review, personal and business tax return analysis, and loan officer boot camp.

The Secure and Fair Enforcement for Mortgage Licensing (SAFE) Act was passed to curb predatory lending practices, and it's now a requirement for mortgage loan originators to complete 20 hours of education through SAFE courses. This can be taken after completing the state-required pre-license education, which varies depending on the agency you're applying through.

You'll also need to obtain a surety bond, which serves as financial protection for consumers. The bond amount varies, so be sure to check the specific requirements with the Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending (TDSML).

Here are the steps to apply for a mortgage broker license in Texas:

  • Apply online for your mortgage broker license and pay the required fee.
  • Use your TREC-registered username or Texas Appraiser Licensing username and Application Board (TALCB) to log in and submit your application.
  • Alternatively, you can submit your application through the mail.

Obtain a Bond

Obtaining a bond is a crucial step in becoming a licensed mortgage broker in Texas. Many states, including Texas, require mortgage brokers to obtain a surety bond as part of the licensing process.

Credit: youtube.com, What it means to be "Licensed & Bonded"

The bond serves as a form of financial protection for consumers, and the amount of the bond varies. Check the specific requirements with the Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending (TDSML) to determine the exact amount you'll need.

To get started, make sure you understand the requirements for obtaining a surety bond in Texas. It's a good idea to review the specific requirements with TDSML to ensure you meet all the necessary criteria.

Licensing and Certification

To become a mortgage broker in Texas, you'll need to obtain a license from the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) and meet the experience requirements.

You'll need to complete 270 hours of pre-license education and pass the Texas real estate broker exam. Additionally, you'll need to pass a background check and meet the experience requirements, which include having four years of active experience as a licensed real estate agent within six months prior to sending your application.

Credit: youtube.com, What's the Difference Between Licensure, Registration, & Certification?

The licensing process involves several steps, including registering with the NMLS, completing pre-license education, passing the licensing exam, and paying non-refundable fees.

The SAFE Act changed the way mortgage loans are processed, requiring registration through the NMLS. To get started, you'll need to register with the NMLS and obtain an NMLS ID number.

You'll also need to complete 23 hours of SAFE education before applying for your mortgage loan officer license. This education will cover topics such as appraisal review, personal and business tax return analysis, and loan officer boot camp.

To finalize your application, you'll need to pay several non-refundable fees, including an application fee, filing fees, and a criminal background check. You'll also need to apply for your Texas SML mortgage loan originator license and associate your NMLS account with your employer.

Mortgage brokers in Texas must also obtain a surety bond, which serves as a form of financial protection for consumers. The amount of the bond varies, so be sure to check the specific requirements with TDSML.

Here's a list of the required licenses and registrations for mortgage brokers in Texas:

  • Mortgage Banker Registration
  • Mortgage Company License
  • Financial Services Company Registration
  • Credit Union Subsidiary Organization License
  • Auxiliary Mortgage Loan Activity Company License
  • Independent Contractor Processor/Underwriter Company License
  • Mortgage Banker Branch Registration
  • Mortgage Company Branch License
  • Credit Union Subsidiary Organization Branch License
  • Mortgage Loan Originator License

Note that the licensing process may vary depending on the type of loan you'll be working with. For example, if you'll be working with manufactured housing loans or residential property tax loans, you may need a license from the Office of the Consumer Credit Commissioner instead of the Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending.

Application and Fees

Credit: youtube.com, How To Get Your Texas Mortgage License [Guide Step by Step for Aspiring MLOs and Career Changers]

To apply for a mortgage broker license in Texas, you'll need to submit your application to the Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending. Be prepared to pay the required licensing fees, which can vary.

The estimated fees for various applications include:

  • Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending application: $479 for loan originators; $275 for a mortgage company license
  • Office of the Consumer Credit Commission application fee: $325
  • NMLS application fee: $30
  • FBI Criminal Background Check: $35.25
  • Credit report: $15

Remember to factor these fees into your overall budget as you navigate the licensing process.

Submit Application and Fees

After you've met the educational requirements and gained the necessary experience, you'll need to submit your application for a mortgage broker license. This can be done through the TDSML.

You'll also need to pay the required licensing fees, which can vary. It's a good idea to check the TDSML website for the most up-to-date information on fees.

To submit your application online, you'll need to log in using your TREC-registered username or Texas Appraiser Licensing username and Application Board (TALCB) account. If you don't have an account, you can register using the same link.

Credit: youtube.com, Write An Application for late fee submission // #applicationwriting #applications #writting_express

Alternatively, you can submit your application through the mail. It's a good idea to check the TDSML website for the exact address and any specific requirements for mailing your application.

Here are the steps to submit your application online:

Fees

Fees can add up quickly when applying for a mortgage or loan, and it's essential to be aware of the costs involved.

The Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending application fee is $479 for loan originators and $275 for a mortgage company license.

You'll also need to pay $325 for the Office of the Consumer Credit Commission application fee.

Other fees to consider include the NMLS application fee of $30 and the FBI Criminal Background Check fee of $35.25.

A credit report will cost you $15.

Here's a breakdown of the estimated fees:

  • Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending application: $479 (loan originators), $275 (mortgage company license)
  • Office of the Consumer Credit Commission application fee: $325
  • NMLS application fee: $30
  • FBI Criminal Background Check: $35.25
  • Credit report: $15

Apply to Become a Broker

To apply to become a mortgage broker in Texas, you'll need to submit your application and pay the required fees. The application process can be done online through the National Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS).

Credit: youtube.com, How Much Is A Broker License? - CountyOffice.org

You'll need to log in to submit your application using your TREC-registered username or Texas Appraiser Licensing username and Application Board (TALCB) credentials. If you don't have an account, you can register using the same link.

The estimated fees for the application process include:

You can also submit your application through the mail if you prefer. Just make sure to include all the required documents and fees.

Broker Requirements and FAQs

To become a licensed mortgage broker in Texas, you'll need to obtain a license from the Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending, as well as the Office of the Consumer Credit Commissioner.

Mortgage brokers need a license in Texas, and you'll have to complete the application through the NMLS for both licensing processes.

You'll need to complete 23 total hours of instruction, with 20 hours comprised of specific topics, including Fair Lending, Ethics, Fraud, and Consumer Protection, and Federal Laws and Regulations.

Credit: youtube.com, How Do I Become A Mortgage Broker In Texas? - CountyOffice.org

Here are the specific hours required for each topic:

In addition to the required hours, you'll also need to complete a 3-hour Texas State Specific law course, which covers topics such as Home Equity Loan Law and Reverse Mortgage Law.

To register and apply for your license, you'll need to pay fees, including the NMLS Initial Processing Fee, the Texas License/Registration Fee, and the FBI Criminal Background Check.

Here are the estimated fees:

  • NMLS Initial Processing Fee: $30
  • Texas License/Registration Fee: $90
  • Credit Report: $15
  • FBI Criminal Background Check: $36.25
  • TX-OCC Registration: $225 (includes $25 non-refundable recovery fund fee)
  • TX-SML Application: $190
  • National Exam: $110

As a licensed mortgage broker in Texas, you'll be required to complete 8 hours of Comprehensive Continuing Education on an annual basis, covering topics such as Federal Regulations and Law, Ethics, and Non-Traditional mortgage lending.

Where to Begin

To get started with becoming a licensed mortgage broker in Texas, you'll need to determine which agency you'll be working with. If you plan to apply for a license with Texas SML, select State Licensing.

If your company is being required to register your mortgage loan originators with a federal agency, you'll need to select Federal Registration. This includes agencies like OCC, OTS, FDIC, FRB, NCUA, or FCA.

You can find the steps for State Licensing on the Texas SML web page, so be sure to check that out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to look up a mortgage lender license?

To verify a mortgage lender's license, check the National Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS) database, where you can search for their credentials. You can also use the NMLS to check the licenses of mortgage loan officers working with the lender.

How much does it cost to get a mortgage license in Texas?

In Texas, the cost to get a mortgage license includes a new application fee of $100 (plus a $20 recovery fee) and a previously existing fee of $70, making the total cost $120. This fee increase was approved by the Finance Commission of Texas in August 2023.

How do I get my MLO license in Texas?

To become a licensed Mortgage Loan Originator (MLO) in Texas, you'll need to complete the required education, pass the SAFE test, and undergo background checks, then submit your application through the NMLS. Start by requesting an NMLS account and following the steps outlined by the Texas Department of Savings and Mortgage Lending.

How long does it take to get a mortgage license in Texas?

To obtain a mortgage license in Texas, you'll need to complete at least 23 hours of pre-license education, including 3 hours of Texas-specific training. This education requirement is a crucial step towards becoming a licensed mortgage professional in the state.

Greg Brown

Senior Writer

Greg Brown is a seasoned writer with a keen interest in the world of finance. With a focus on investment strategies, Greg has established himself as a knowledgeable and insightful voice in the industry. Through his writing, Greg aims to provide readers with practical advice and expert analysis on various investment topics.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.