Series 6 vs Series 65: Different Roles, Different Goals
- April 1, 2025
- Posted by: 'FINRA Exam Mastery'
- Category: Finance
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π Series 6 vs Series 65: Different Roles, Different Goals
If you’re planning a career in financial services, understanding the differences between the Series 6 and Series 65 licenses is essential. Each serves a unique purpose, targets different roles, and aligns with distinct career goals. Hereβs what you need to know:
π― Purpose of Each License
Series 6 β Investment Company and Variable Contracts Products Rep
- Sell mutual funds, variable annuities, and insurance-based products
- Common for bank reps, insurance agents, or entry-level financial professionals
- Regulated by FINRA
Series 65 β Uniform Investment Adviser Law Exam
- Qualifies individuals to act as Investment Adviser Representatives (IARs)
- Allows for fee-based advice, portfolio management, and fiduciary responsibility
- Regulated by NASAA
π₯ Who Needs Each License?
License | Ideal For | Role Type |
---|---|---|
Series 6 | Bank reps, insurance agents | Sales-focused |
Series 65 | Independent RIAs, planners | Advisory-focused |
π What You Can and Canβt Do
Action | Series 6 | Series 65 |
---|---|---|
Sell mutual funds | β | β |
Offer fee-based investment advice | β | β |
Manage client portfolios | β | β |
Earn commissions | β | β |
Act as a fiduciary | β | β |
β± Exam Overview
Series 6
- 50 scored questions
- 90 minutes
- Passing score: 70%
Series 65
- 130 scored questions
- 180 minutes
- Passing score: 72%
πΌ Career Outlook
- Series 6 is ideal for financial professionals selling investment products in structured environments.
- Series 65 suits those who want to operate independently and offer advisory services as fiduciaries.
π§ Which Should You Choose?
- Want to sell mutual funds and annuities? β Series 6
- Want to offer personalized investment advice? β Series 65
π Start Your Licensing Journey
Get access to expert-led Series 6 and Series 65 exam prep courses.
π Lifetime access. Real-world practice. Pass with confidence.