📝 How to Register for the Series 65 Exam in 2025

The Series 65 exam, officially known as the Uniform Investment Adviser Law Examination, is administered by FINRA on behalf of the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA). Passing this exam is a key step toward becoming a licensed Investment Adviser Representative (IAR).

✅ Who Needs to Take the Series 65?

• Aspiring Investment Adviser Representatives (IARs): Individuals aiming to provide investment advice to clients.
• Professionals Not Affiliated with a FINRA Member Firm: Unlike other FINRA exams, the Series 65 does not require sponsorship by a FINRA member firm.
• Candidates Without Certain Professional Designations: Those who do not hold qualifying designations like CFP®, CFA®, ChFC®, PFS, or CIMA®.

🖥️ Step-by-Step Registration Process

1. Determine Your Registration Path

• Not Affiliated with a Firm: Use the Form U10 to register for the exam.
• Affiliated with a FINRA Member Firm: Your firm will submit a Form U4 on your behalf.

2. Access FINRA’s Enrollment Portal

Visit FINRA’s Enroll for an Exam page.

3. Complete the Appropriate Form

• Form U10: For individuals not associated with a firm.
• Form U4: Submitted by your sponsoring firm if you’re affiliated.

4. Pay the Exam Fee

• Cost: $187 as of 2025 .
• Payment: Made during the online registration process.​COMPLY+2COMPLY+2FINRA+2

5. Receive Your 120-Day Exam Window

After registration, you’ll have 120 days to schedule and take the exam .

6. Schedule Your Exam

• Testing Centers: Exams are administered at Prometric test centers.
• Scheduling: Use the Prometric FINRA page to find a location and schedule your exam.

📚 Exam Details

• Format: 130 scored multiple-choice questions + 10 unscored pretest questions.
• Duration: 180 minutes (3 hours).
• Passing Score: At least 92 correct answers out of 130 scored questions .​NASA Aerospace AgencyFINRA+3COMPLY+3NASA Aerospace Agency+3NASA Aerospace Agency+4FINRA+4NASA Aerospace Agency+4

🔁 Retake Policy

• First and Second Attempts: Wait 30 days before retaking the exam.
• Third Attempt: Wait 180 days before the next attempt.
• Fee: Each retake requires a new registration and payment of the exam fee.​COMPLY+1COMPLY+1

🧾 Additional Considerations

• Professional Designation Waivers: Holding certain designations (e.g., CFP®, CFA®, ChFC®, PFS, CIMA®) may exempt you from taking the Series 65. Check with your state securities regulator for specific requirements.
• State Registration: Passing the Series 65 is a prerequisite, but you must also complete state-specific registration processes to become a licensed IAR.​NASA Aerospace AgencyCOMPLY+3Kaplan Financial+3COMPLY+3

🎯 Final Tips

• Preparation: Invest in quality study materials and consider taking a prep course.
• Scheduling: Plan ahead to ensure you can take the exam within your 120-day window.
• State Requirements: Always verify additional requirements with your state’s securities regulator.​NASA Aerospace Agency

For more information and to begin the registration process, visit FINRA’s Enroll for an Exam page.