MLO Exam Pass Rate (Official NMLS Data)

Updated October 20, 2026

53%. NMLS reports that, as of December 31, 2024, the first-time pass rate for the SAFE MLO Test is 53%. The passing score is 75%, as required by the SAFE Act.

Historical figures from SRR annual reports

Period	First-time pass rate	Subsequent attempts	Source
2016–2017	60%	43%	SRR 2017 Annual Report
2017–2018	58%	43%	SRR 2018 Annual Report
2018–2019	58%	42%	SRR 2019 Annual Report
As of Dec. 31, 2024	53%	n/a	NMLS test performance page

The annual reports give 24-month windows. We only show figures that NMLS or the SRR published. We don't estimate pass rates for any prep product, including ours.

What the pass rate means for you

Roughly one in two first-time candidates doesn't pass. A failed attempt costs another $110 and at least a 30-day wait (180 days after a third consecutive failure). Practicing under timed conditions is the cheapest insurance.

Practice questions

1. The SAFE test passing score is set by law at:

70%
A curve set each year
Not less than 75%
80%

Show answer and explanation

Answer: C. Not less than 75%
Correct — 12 U.S.C. §5104(d)(3).

Source: 12 U.S.C. 5104(d)(3)(A)

2. Under ECOA/Reg B, a creditor must notify an applicant of action taken on a completed application within:

10 days
30 days
60 days
90 days

Show answer and explanation

Answer: B. 30 days
Correct — notice within 30 days after receiving a completed application.

Source: 12 CFR 1002.9(a)(1)(i)

3. Which is a primary purpose of the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA)?

Capping interest rates on high-cost loans
Helping determine whether lenders serve the housing needs of their communities
Requiring Loan Estimates
Licensing loan originators

Show answer and explanation

Answer: B. Helping determine whether lenders serve the housing needs of their communities
Correct — HMDA data shows lending patterns and helps identify possible discrimination.

Source: 12 CFR 1003.1(b)(1)(i)

4. Under RESPA, the maximum escrow cushion a servicer may require is:

One-twelfth of annual disbursements
One-sixth of annual disbursements
One-fourth of annual disbursements
Three months of payments

Show answer and explanation

Answer: B. One-sixth of annual disbursements
Correct — Reg X caps the cushion at 1/6 (about two months).

Source: 12 CFR 1024.17(c)(1)(ii)

Practice with every question

392 questions, each with an explanation for every option and an official source, plus a timed 120-question, 190-minute practice exam.

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Official sources

FAQ

What is the MLO exam pass rate?

NMLS reports a 53% first-time pass rate for the SAFE MLO Test as of December 31, 2024.

What score do you need to pass the SAFE MLO test?

75%, the minimum set by the SAFE Act (12 U.S.C. §5104(d)).

Do I get my score right away?

At a test center, you get a printed score report before you leave, but it isn't official until it posts in NMLS. Online-proctored results are emailed within three business days.