What Is the Series 63 Exam? A Complete Overview
- April 1, 2025
- Posted by: 'FINRA Exam Mastery'
- Category: Finance
🟦 What Is the Series 63 Exam? A Complete Overview
Everything you need to know before taking the Uniform Securities Agent State Law Exam.
If you plan to sell securities in any U.S. state, the Series 63 exam is a must-have credential. Whether you’re aiming to become a financial advisor, broker, or registered representative, this license ensures you meet state-level regulatory requirements for securities sales.
Here’s a complete breakdown of what the Series 63 is, what it covers, and how it fits into your career path.
📘 What Is the Series 63?
The Series 63, formally known as the Uniform Securities Agent State Law Exam, is administered by FINRA on behalf of the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA). It’s required in most U.S. states for anyone who wants to solicit and transact securities business.
✅ Designed for: Securities agents who want to operate across U.S. states
✅ Focus: State securities laws and regulations (a.k.a. “Blue Sky Laws”)
📋 What Does the Exam Cover?
The Series 63 exam tests your understanding of two major areas:
- State Securities Acts and Related Rules and Regulations
– Registration of persons and securities
– Fraudulent practices
– Administrative provisions - Ethical Business Practices and Obligations
– Fiduciary duties
– Conflicts of interest
– Disclosures and client communications
These topics emphasize regulatory compliance, client protection, and ethical standards—all key responsibilities of licensed securities agents.
📝 Exam Details
- Format: 60 multiple-choice questions
- Passing Score: 72% (you must correctly answer at least 43 questions)
- Time Limit: 75 minutes
- Cost: $147 (exam fee, paid to FINRA)
- Delivery: Computer-based, proctored exam at a testing center or online
🔄 Series 63 vs. Other FINRA Exams
| License | What It Covers | Do You Need Series 63 Too? |
|---|---|---|
| Series 6 | Mutual funds, variable annuities | ✅ Yes |
| Series 7 | Full range of securities products | ✅ Yes (in most states) |
| Series 65 | Investment advice for a fee | ❌ No |
| Series 66 | Combines Series 63 + 65 | ❌ Not if you take 66 instead |
📈 Why Series 63 Matters
- It’s mandatory in most states to legally conduct securities transactions.
- It ensures agents understand how to protect investors and operate ethically under state law.
- It’s often required in addition to product-focused licenses like Series 6 or Series 7.
🧠 Pro Study Tip
Start studying with a 30-day plan if you already hold another FINRA license. Focus on ethics, fraud prevention, and registration requirements—these make up the bulk of the exam.
🎯 Ready to Get Licensed?
Pass the Series 63 with confidence using our digital course at finra-exam-mastery.com. You’ll get:
- Easy-to-follow video lessons
- State law cheat sheets
- Practice exams with explanations
- Lifetime access for one flat fee
Your license—and your career—start here.