NMLS License Utah: Get Your Utah Mortgage Loan Originator License in 2026!

Every state has its own Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS) requirements for mortgage education. New mortgage loan originators (MLOs) must complete a 20-hour NMLS-approved course, which is standard nationwide.

Utah-DRE requires 25 hours total, including 5 hours of UT-DRE specific instruction. Utah-DFI requires 20 hours total and does not list the additional 5-hour UT-DRE requirement.

Total required pre-licensing education: 25 hours

Important:

• The 5-hour UT-DRE requirement will be tracked in NMLS beginning May 1.
• Applicants who did not complete the previous 15-hour UT-DRE course and submit their license application by April 30, 2026, must meet the new UT-DRE 5-hour requirement as of May 1, 2026.
• Pre-licensing education (PE) does not count toward annual continuing education (CE) credits.
• MLOs should not retake the 20-hour PE course unless directed by a state regulator.

Although not yet enacted, Utah has proposed a PE expiration policy. Under this policy, if you complete the required 20 hours of education but do not obtain your license within 3 years, you may be required to retake the coursework.

This may also apply if your license has been inactive or lapsed for 3 or more years before re-entering the industry.

Applicants should refer to the NMLS State Licensing Checklist Compiler or state regulator guidance for current details.

These terms are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same.

• A mortgage broker is typically a company that employs mortgage loan originators.
• A loan officer (MLO) is an individual who works for a broker (or lender) to originate mortgage loans for borrowers.

In short, brokers are businesses, while loan officers are licensed individuals who work under them.

Becoming a Utah MLO involves several steps and associated fees under the SAFE Act.

NMLS and state fees vary by agency. The listed application fee applies to UT-DRE unless otherwise indicated.

Utah requires licensed MLOs to complete annual continuing education (CE). Requirements vary slightly depending on the regulator:

Important Reminder:

The “successive years” rule prohibits MLOs from taking the same CE course two years in a row. Mortgage Educators updates its CE courses annually to ensure compliance.

You can also apply to become a principal lending manager (PLM). In order to meet the minimum qualifications for becoming a Principal Lending Manager in Utah, you have to meet additional professional and educational requirements to apply. These include mortgage lending experience, passing a Utah PLM-specific test, and completing a 40-hour PLM course in addition to all the individual MLO requirements. You will need to complete the MU4 Form in NMLS with the PLM designation selective on the application process and the company you are affiliated with will need to sponsor you for an approved and active license. If becoming a PLM sparks your interest, check out our NEW 40 Hour Utah DRE Principal Lending Manager Self - Study Course through the link below!

2023 Utah DRE Principal Lending Manager 40 Hour Self-Study Course

Mortgage Educators and Compliance is here to answer any additional questions you may have regarding your Utah mortgage license. For additional questions, feel free to email [email protected] or use our Wizmo online chat during business hours for assistance.