The 2026 CE renewal season is here. Here's a complete breakdown of what hours you need, state-specific requirements, and how to complete your CE before the deadline.
The 8-hour federal CE requirement
Every licensed Mortgage Loan Originator must complete 8 hours of NMLS-approved continuing education each year to renew their license. This federal minimum is set by the SAFE Act and applies in every state.
The 8 hours break down into defined topic areas so that education stays balanced across law, ethics, and product knowledge.
- 3 hours of federal law and regulations
- 2 hours of ethics, which must include instruction on fraud, consumer protection, and fair lending
- 2 hours of training on non-traditional mortgage products
- 1 hour of undefined instruction on mortgage origination (elective)
State-specific hours
Several states require additional CE hours on top of the 8-hour federal requirement. Always confirm your state's specific hour count and any state-law elective before you enroll, because banking the wrong hours can delay your renewal.
Successive-years rule
You generally cannot take the same CE course in two consecutive years. Plan your provider and course selection so your content is fresh each renewal cycle and your credit banks without a rejection.
Don't wait for the deadline
The renewal window closes at the end of the year and providers get busy. Completing your CE early avoids the November–December rush and gives you time to resolve any banking issues before the deadline.
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