SAFE MLO test with Uniform State Content
NMLS SAFE MLO Test: Format, Sections and Rules
The facts from the NMLS testing handbook: how the test works, what's on it, what the score report shows and the retake rules.
Last updated November 11, 2026
Format and scoring
| SAFE MLO test | |
|---|---|
| Questions | 120: 115 scored + 5 unscored pre-test questions |
| Time | 190 minutes (the appointment is 225 minutes with the tutorial and survey) |
| Passing score | 75% |
| Delivery | Prometric test center or online proctored |
| Fee | $110 per enrollment, non-refundable; 180 days to schedule and test |
| Score report | Your overall score plus a performance range for each section; official in NMLS within 72 hours (online: emailed within 3 business days) |
The five sections
| Section | Share | ≈ Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Mortgage loan origination activities | 27% | 31 |
| Federal mortgage-related laws | 24% | 27 |
| General mortgage knowledge | 20% | 23 |
| Ethics | 18% | 21 |
| Uniform state content | 11% | 13 |
Question counts are our rounding of the outline's percentages of the 115 scored questions.
Retake rule
- After a failed attempt you must wait 30 days before testing again.
- After every third failed attempt the wait is 180 days.
- Each attempt needs a new enrollment and fee.
Source: NMLS MLO Testing Handbook (test overview, results, retake sections), SAFE MLO test content outline and Test Performance Information page. Confirm with the NMLS before your test; some states add their own rules.
Questions people ask
How many questions are on the NMLS test?
120, of which 115 are scored and 5 are unscored pre-test questions. You have 190 minutes and need 75%.
How long do I wait to retake the NMLS test?
30 days after a failed attempt, and 180 days after every third failed attempt.
Get in first when PassNext opens
PassNext is opening soon. Tell us your exam and we'll email you the day practice opens. If you've already taken it once, say so: the retake plan is built for you.