Written by AI from public information on 2026-10-26. Fees and rules change and vary by province — confirm with the official body before relying on anything here.
Typical cost
about CA$2,000 to CA$4,000
an estimate in Canadian dollars
Time to earn it
about 3 to 6 months
Issued by Provincial financial regulators (for example FSRA in Ontario)
Required to start: Arranging mortgages for others needs the licence of the province.
About
In Canada, arranging a mortgage for someone else is a regulated activity. Each province and territory decides who may do this work and sets its own licensing rules. In Ontario, for example, the licence is issued by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA).
The licence shows that you understand how mortgages work, how to deal fairly with clients and what the law expects of you. Most people who hold it work as mortgage agents or brokers. Some use it in roles such as loan officer or mortgage loan officer, where they help clients find and apply for the right mortgage. Many licensed agents work under a registered brokerage, and some go on to become brokers who can run their own business.
How to get it
Check the rules in your province
Find out which regulator licenses mortgage work where you plan to live and work. Confirm the current education, exam and application requirements before you start.
Complete the required education
Take the pre-licensing course approved in your province. Most students finish it in a few months of part-time study.
Pass the licensing exam
Book and write the exam once your course is complete. You will need to show that you know the laws, the products and the ethical standards of the industry.
Find a sponsoring brokerage
New agents usually need to be connected to a licensed brokerage. The brokerage supports your application and supervises your early work.
Apply for your licence
Submit your application to the provincial regulator, along with any required documents and fees. Expect to provide background information and proof that you meet the requirements.
Start working and keep learning
Once your licence is issued, you can arrange mortgages for clients. Plan to keep studying, because rules and products change over time.
The exam
Most provinces require a written exam after you finish the approved course. It tests your knowledge of mortgage products, lending practices, consumer protection and the rules that apply to licensed professionals. Study the course material carefully and take practice questions if they are offered.
Licensed by each province
Each province and territory issues this itself, under its own rules. For example — Ontario: Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA). Every province and territory has its own licensing system, so the details differ from place to place. Course providers, exam requirements, fees, renewal timing and the way agents and brokers are defined can all vary. If you move to another province, you will usually need to apply for a licence there instead of simply transferring your current one. Always check the rules of the regulator where you plan to work.
Keeping it
Your licence must be renewed on a regular schedule set by your provincial regulator. You will usually need to complete ongoing education and pay a renewal fee. Keep track of your renewal date, because working with an expired licence is not allowed.