NC North Carolina

This state is widely recognized for being one of the most challenging states to get licensed in. The review process is very thorough and detailed. NC allows only 30 days to respond to licensing items. Failure to meet this deadline will result in the application being marked as withdrawn by the state, requiring the company, branch, or individual to restart the entire process to re-apply. North Carolina mandates that all licensed locations operate from commercial office space, reinforcing the state’s strong focus on consumer protection. The Broker and Banker license require a Anti-Money Laundering (AML) / Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) Policy with most recent Independent Review. Named QI is required for all license types and must meet applicable experience, education and testing requirements.

StateLicense NameState FeeBond Prem.RA FeeSoS FeeMLG Processing FeeTotal
North CarolinaMortgage Broker License$1,370$563$326Call for More Information$2,259
North CarolinaMortgage Lender License$1,370$1,125$326Call for More Information$2,821
North CarolinaMortgage Servicer License$1,370$1,125$326Call for More Information$2,821

License: Mortgage Broker License

  • Operating Status: Broker
  • Bond Amount: $75,000
  • Net Worth: $25,000 w/ $10K Liquid
  • Brick & Mortar: No
  • Financial Type: Unaudited
This company application is relatively expensive. Company must provide evidence that the broker owns and holds liquid assets of at least $10,000 – this must be maintained on a continual basis. Company must provide bank account information on the NMLS. Your qualified individual must meet the requirements of having 3 years of residential mortgage lending experience and meet education and testing requirements. This application also requires an extremely detailed business plan/organization chart describing company operations. Financial statements must reflect a net worth of at least $25,000. A surety bond in the amount of $75,000 is also required.

License: Mortgage Lender License

  • Operating Status: Broker/Lender
  • Bond Amount: $150,000
  • Net Worth: $100,000 w/ liquidity of $1 Million, which may include a warehouse line
  • Brick & Mortar: No
  • Financial Type: Audited
This company application is relatively expensive. Company must provide evidence of a warehouse line of credit of $1 million dollars or other funding capacity. Your qualified individual must meet the requirements of having 3 years of residential mortgage lending experience and meet education and testing requirements. Audited financial statement must reflect a positive net worth of least $100,00.00. This application also requires an extremely detailed business plan/organization chart describing company operations. This application requires a high bond amount in the amount of $150,000.

License: Mortgage Servicer License

  • Operating Status: Servicer
  • Bond Amount: $150,000
  • Net Worth: $100,000
  • Brick & Mortar: No
  • Financial Type: Audited

Additional Information

To obtain a mortgage broker license in North Carolina, applicants must apply through the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS) and meet the state’s rigorous regulatory standards. Known for its strict timelines and comprehensive documentation requirements, North Carolina’s licensing process demands close attention to detail. Applicants have just 30 days to respond to any deficiencies—failure to do so results in the application being withdrawn, requiring a full restart.

A designated Qualified Individual (QI) is required for all license types. This individual must meet specific experience, education, and testing requirements set by the state. Additionally, applicants must submit a detailed Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Bank Secrecy Act (BSA) policy, including documentation of an independent review.

Although North Carolina no longer requires a physical office location in the state, it does maintain financial requirements, including minimum net worth and liquid asset thresholds. These measures underscore the state’s focus on consumer protection and business accountability.

While the North Carolina mortgage licensing process is more demanding than in many other states, those who meet the requirements are well-positioned for long-term success. Careful preparation and a clear understanding of the state's expectations are essential for a smooth path to licensure.