The requirements to become a loan officer vary from state to state. Unlike a securities or insurance license, there is no type of federalized standard testing required to become a mortgage professional.  Some states require that an applicant take a proctored test, like Texas and Nevada for example.  On the other hand, some states require nothing at all, such as Alaska.  Since the mortgage meltdown, there has been increasing pressure for each state's lending division to tighten their licensing requirements.  Prior to 2006, most states didnt even require a background check.  Now, most states require not only a background check, but a credit check and fingerprinting, as well.

One constant remains--that is, you need to work under the license of a broker.  You cannot simply set up shop as a rogue loan officer.  You will need to, at the very least, be affiliated with a broker.

For a complete list of requirements in your state see our list

Beyond The Standard Licensing Requirements:

For most, becoming a licensed loan officer is a small challenge, compared to actually fucntioning as one. If you have an aversion to stress, articulate poorly, or are bad with numbers, then you should probably look elsewhere.  I have held several high stress jobs, but dealing with the end user on the largest purchase of their lives can be emotionally draining.  Just take a look at this scenario.  Someone has put their life savings of $50k down on a house, $20k of which they lose if the transaction doesn't close on time. You're two days from close and the loan isn't complete, the bank is suddenly requiring an additional 2 months of pay stubs.  Unfortunately, the buyer's income wasn't as high several months back. You knew this, but didn't think it would be an issue.  Doesn't sound fun does it. That's par for the course as a loan officer, so if that scares you, think about another occupation.