Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Business
Mortgage Loan Originator Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for mortgage loan originator in Washington, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Mortgage Loan Originator in Washington
Estimated timeline: 1 monthCore Requirements
- 1
Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 3
Individuals must pass the national and state mortgage loan originator tests (at a cost of $143 for both), have a high school diploma or equivalent, complete 22 hours of NMLS-approved pre-licensing education, including 4 hours in Washington law, complete a criminal background check and file a credit report authorization.
Exam and processing details
- Both state and third-party exams required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Financial Institutions
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$77,040 median (4% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#19 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Mortgage Loan Originator licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Individuals must pass the national and state mortgage loan originator tests (at a cost of $143 for both), have a high school diploma or e...).
- 3. Document required supervised experience (Individuals must pass the national and state mortgage loan originator tests (at a cost of $143 for both), have a high school diploma or e...).
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.; Individuals must pass the national and state mortgage loan originator tests (at a cost of $143 for both), have a high school diploma or e...).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Financial Institutions and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $77,040, Mortgage Loan Originators in Washington earn 4% above the national median of $74,180. Washington ranks #19 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 1 month.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$77,040Hourly estimate
$37.044% above national median
Difference: +$2,860
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationMortgage Loan Originator Salary Ranking
#19 of 50 statesfor Mortgage Loan Originator median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New York | $98,940 |
| #2 | New Jersey | $95,090 |
| #3 | Massachusetts | $93,430 |
| #4 | Vermont | $86,490 |
| #5 | Minnesota | $84,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
Mortgage Loan Originator licensing across the regionLicense by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Idaho | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Financial Institutions
150 Israel Rd SW, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3609028700
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $97,800 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $73,160 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $96,180 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $105,090 | No educational requirements | 8 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Mortgage Loan Originator in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 1 month, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Mortgage Loan Originators in Washington?
Washington lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Mortgage Loan Originators.
What is the typical Mortgage Loan Originator salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Mortgage Loan Originators in Washington is $77,040. Salaries range from $36,940 (10th percentile) to $150,940 (90th percentile).
How does the Mortgage Loan Originator salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Mortgage Loan Originators in Washington earn 4% above the national median of $74,180, with a state median of $77,040.
How many Mortgage Loan Originators work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 6,480 Mortgage Loan Originators according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Mortgage Loan Originator license to Washington from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Mortgage Loan Originators in Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Financial Institutions. Review agency details at http://www.dfi.wa.gov/.
How often do you renew a Mortgage Loan Originator license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.