Should You Take Series 7 Before Series 63?

🧾 Should You Take Series 7 Before Series 63?
📘 Understanding the Relationship Between the Series 7 and Series 63 Exams

If you’re pursuing a career in the securities industry, you may be wondering whether it’s better to take the Series 7 exam before the Series 63 exam. Both exams are important, but they serve different purposes. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand the order in which to take these exams based on your career goals.

🎯 1. What Is the Series 7 Exam?

The Series 7 exam, officially known as the General Securities Representative Exam, qualifies individuals to sell a broad range of securities products such as:

• Stocks
• Bonds
• Options
• Mutual funds

Passing the Series 7 exam allows you to work as a registered representative for a broker-dealer and sell various financial products to clients.

Key Points About Series 7:

• Sponsorship Required: You must be sponsored by a FINRA-member firm to take the Series 7 exam.
• Content: The Series 7 exam covers a wide range of topics, including securities products, market regulations, and ethical practices.
• Passing Score: A passing score of 72% (180 correct answers out of 250 questions) is required to pass.

🎯 2. What Is the Series 63 Exam?

The Series 63 exam, known as the Uniform Securities Agent State Law Exam, is required for individuals who want to sell securities within a specific state. It primarily focuses on:

• State regulations
• Ethical practices
• Registration requirements for securities professionals in each state

The Series 63 exam is often required in addition to other FINRA exams and is essential if you plan to sell securities in a state-regulated environment.

Key Points About Series 63:

• No Sponsorship Required: You do not need a sponsor from a FINRA-member firm to take the Series 63 exam.
• Content: The Series 63 exam focuses on state laws and the ethical responsibilities of securities agents.
• Passing Score: A passing score of 72% is typically required.

🎯 3. Should You Take Series 7 Before Series 63?

Option 1: Series 7 First

Taking the Series 7 exam first makes sense if:

• You want to sell a broad range of securities (e.g., stocks, bonds, mutual funds).
• You’re working for a broker-dealer firm that requires you to pass the Series 7 exam before you can start selling products.
• You need to pass the Series 63 afterward to operate in specific states.

The Series 7 is generally considered a more comprehensive exam, as it tests your knowledge of a broader range of financial products and regulations. Once you pass the Series 7, you’ll be eligible to take the Series 63 exam and fulfill the state licensing requirements.

Option 2: Series 63 First

Taking the Series 63 exam first might be ideal if:

• You are already employed or planning to work in a state-specific role (like a securities agent or investment adviser).
• You don’t yet need the Series 7 qualification, but you want to start selling securities in your state.

The Series 63 exam is often required in addition to the Series 7 and can be taken before or after you pass the Series 7 exam.

🎯 4. Which One Comes First in Practice?

• Industry Practice: Most professionals take the Series 7 exam first since it qualifies them to sell a broader range of securities. Afterward, they take the Series 63 exam to comply with state regulations and legally sell securities in multiple states.
• State Requirements: Some states may require the Series 63 exam before you can engage in securities sales. However, the Series 7 is generally seen as the more critical exam for entering the securities industry.

🚀 5. Conclusion: Which Should You Take First?

• Take Series 7 first if you want to work as a securities representative and need a comprehensive qualification to sell a wide range of securities.
• Take Series 63 if you need to meet state-specific licensing requirements for selling securities in your state.

In most cases, Series 7 first is the preferred path, as it covers a broader range of topics and will be required for most sales positions. The Series 63 exam is typically taken afterward to meet state registration requirements.

🎓 Ready to start your licensing journey?
Explore expert-led study guides, practice exams, and resources to prepare for both the Series 7 and Series 63 exams at
👉 https://finra-exam-mastery.com

Prepare for success and take the next step in your securities career!