Directory / California / Mortgage
CA · Mortgage origination, brokering, and servicing
CRMLA and/or CFL mortgage authority (and sometimes a DRE broker license)
Residential mortgage lenders and servicers in California generally need a CRMLA license from DFPI. Some finance-lender activity that includes mortgage loans uses a CFL license instead or in addition. Certain mortgage brokers still operate under a Department of Real Estate broker license. Those are different authorities — map the activity before you file.
Create the NMLS company record and request the DFPI mortgage authority that matches the model. If the firm is a DRE broker, confirm with DRE whether that license is still the right (or an additional) desk.
The SAFE Act, TILA/RESPA, ECOA, and (for many servicers) CFPB mortgage-servicing rules apply in addition to the state license. Depository institutions register MLOs on the NMLS federal registry rather than holding state company licenses.
Agency names and filing paths are public facts from state regulator sites, the NMLS / CSBS agency directory, and published statutes. License categories and exemptions change. Confirm the current checklist on the official site before you apply. This is not legal advice and not a fee schedule.