Register with the NMLS: Like many other states, Hawaii uses the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System & Registry (NMLS) for mortgage licensing. Register your mortgage loan originator company with the NMLS and create an account.

Complete Pre-License Education: Ensure that all required individuals within your mortgage loan originator company complete any pre-license education courses mandated by the state. These courses typically cover topics such as mortgage lending laws, ethics, and lending practices.

Submit Application: Fill out the mortgage loan originator company license application through the NMLS. Provide detailed information about your company’s structure, ownership, officers, and other relevant details.

Pay Fees: Submit the necessary application and licensing fees. The fees can vary, so check with the Hawaii Division of Financial Institutions (DFI) for the most up-to-date fee schedule.

Background Checks: Every Direct Owner, Executive Officer, and Indirect Owner are required to authorize a FBI criminal background check through NMLS.

Processing Fee: A $35 processing fee is requires for each Control Person, Executive Officer, Director, and General Partner, and Managing Member.

For Mortgage Loan Originator Companies with headquarters out of state: Hawaii requires that companies have and maintain a principal place of business in this state.

Certificate of Authority/Good Standing Certificate: For Companies formed and doing business only in Hawaii, upload a Certificate of Good Standing from the Business Registration Division of the State of Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs dated not more than 60 days prior to the filling of an application through NMLS. For Companies formed outside of Hawaii, upload a Certificate of Good Standing issued by the business Registration Division of the State of Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, dated not more than 60 days prior to the filling of an application through NMLS.

Renew License: Mortgage loan originator company licenses usually need to be renewed annually or biennially. Keep track of renewal deadlines and submit any required documentation and fees on time.

Stay Informed: Mortgage lending regulations can change, so it’s important to stay informed about any updates or changes to Hawaii state laws that may affect your business.