Secondary Market Underwriters

Is it required for someone who holds the postion of underwriting loans to be sold into the secondary market be registered with the NMLS? This person will basically be making the loan decision and then shooting it back to the MLO that originally took the application. Another question, if a MLO decides to become an underwriter, do we keep their NMLS# active?

Underwriters are exempt from licensing/registration if they do not have direct contact with borrower to negotiate the rate/term of loan or provide advise as to proper loan for them.