84+ Free NMLS Practice Questions
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Key Facts: NMLS Exam
56-58%
First-Time Pass Rate
NMLS
75%
Passing Score
~86/115 questions
$74,180
MLO Median Salary
BLS 2024
158,000
Licensed MLOs
NMLS 2025
$2.2T
2026 Originations
MBA forecast
20 hrs
Pre-License Required
SAFE Act
The NMLS SAFE exam has only a 56-58% first-time pass rate - significantly lower than the Bar Exam. It requires 75% (approximately 86/115 questions) to pass. There are approximately 158,000 licensed MLOs in the US (2025), down 46% from the pandemic peak. The MBA forecasts $2.2 trillion in mortgage originations for 2026. Median MLO salary is $74,180 (BLS 2024).
About the NMLS Exam
The NMLS SAFE exam is required for mortgage loan originators. It tests knowledge of federal mortgage laws (RESPA, TILA, TRID), ethics, loan origination, and mortgage products. The pass rate is approximately 54%, making thorough preparation essential.
Questions
115 scored questions
Time Limit
3 hours 10 minutes
Passing Score
75%
Exam Fee
$110 (NMLS/Prometric)
NMLS Exam Content Outline
Federal Mortgage-Related Laws
RESPA, TILA, TRID, ECOA, HMDA, SAFE Act
General Mortgage Knowledge
Loan products, terms, calculations, and programs
Mortgage Loan Origination Activities
Application, processing, underwriting, and closing
Ethics
Fraud prevention, fair lending, and professional conduct
Uniform State Content
State licensing, continuing education, and compliance
How to Pass the NMLS Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: 75%
- Exam length: 115 questions
- Time limit: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Exam fee: $110
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
NMLS Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NMLS exam pass rate?
The NMLS SAFE exam has a pass rate of approximately 54% nationally. This relatively low pass rate reflects the exam's comprehensive coverage of federal mortgage laws, ethics, and loan origination activities. With proper preparation using practice questions and study materials, you can significantly improve your chances.
How many questions are on the NMLS exam?
The NMLS SAFE exam contains 120 questions total: 115 scored questions and 5 unscored pretest questions. You need to answer at least 75% (approximately 86 questions) correctly to pass. You have 190 minutes (about 3 hours 10 minutes) to complete the exam.
How hard is the NMLS exam?
The NMLS exam is considered challenging with its 54% pass rate. Federal law questions (RESPA, TILA, TRID) require detailed knowledge of disclosure requirements and timelines. Most candidates find the ethics section and federal law calculations most difficult. Plan for 40-80 hours of study.
How long should I study for the NMLS exam?
Plan for 40-80 hours of study over 4-8 weeks. Complete the required 20 hours of pre-licensing education first. Then focus on practice questions, especially federal law timing requirements (3-day rules, tolerance limits). Aim to score 80%+ consistently on practice tests.
Do I need sponsorship to take the NMLS exam?
No, you do not need employer sponsorship to take the NMLS SAFE exam. You can complete pre-licensing education and take the exam independently through NMLS. After passing, you'll need to apply for state licensure and work under a licensed mortgage company.
What topics are most important for the NMLS exam?
Focus heavily on federal laws (24% of exam): RESPA disclosures and escrow limits, TILA APR and rescission rights, TRID timing requirements, ECOA prohibited bases. Also master loan origination activities (25%) including underwriting ratios and qualification.