State mortgage regulators from around the country have been working since 2004 to develop a nationwide licensing system for the residential mortgage industry that will improve supervision of the mortgage industry, streamline the licensing process for mortgage companies and professionals, and enhance consumer protection.

The Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS) is a web-based system that will allow state licensed mortgage lenders, mortgage brokers, and loan officers to apply for, amend, update or renew a license online for all participating state agencies using a single set of uniform applications. The NMLS will bring greater uniformity and transparency to the mortgage industry while maintaining and strengthening the ability of state regulators to monitor the industry and protect their citizens.

The System is scheduled to begin operation on January 2, 2008.