Should You Take Series 63 Before Series 6 or 7?

🧾 Should You Take the Series 63 Before Series 6 or 7?
🎓 Understanding the Best Sequence for Success

The Series 63 exam, known as the Uniform Securities Agent State Law Exam, is required for anyone who wishes to sell securities in a particular state. But when should you take the Series 63 exam—before the Series 6 or Series 7? While the Series 63 can be taken before or after these exams, the timing and sequence of when to take it depends on your career goals and the path you’re following in the securities industry.

Here’s a breakdown of when it makes sense to take the Series 63 in relation to the Series 6 or Series 7.

🎯 1. When to Take the Series 63: Before or After the Series 6 or Series 7?

Series 63 First: If You’re Focusing on a State-Specific Role

• Why Take Series 63 First: If your goal is to begin selling securities in a specific state (as many states require the Series 63 for licensure), it might make sense to take the Series 63 first, especially if you’re just getting started in the securities industry.
• Benefit: This approach allows you to start selling securities in your state while preparing for other exams like the Series 6 or Series 7. For example, if you’re looking to work in a limited scope like mutual funds or variable annuities (Series 6), you can be licensed to start in a state before tackling more comprehensive exams like the Series 7.

Series 6 First, Then Series 63:

• If you’re pursuing a role that requires the Series 6 (e.g., mutual fund sales, variable annuities), the Series 63 can be taken right after or simultaneously. The Series 63 is often required by states as a complementary license to sell securities products and is directly linked to the Series 6 exam for mutual fund sales.

Series 7 First, Then Series 63:

• For those pursuing a more broadly licensed career—like a broker who will sell a variety of securities (stocks, bonds, options, etc.)—the Series 7 should be prioritized. Afterward, the Series 63 exam can be completed as a supplementary state license. Taking the Series 7 first makes sense if you plan on selling a broad range of securities across different states, as the Series 7 qualifies you to sell those securities at a national level. After passing Series 7, Series 63 is often a requirement for most state-level registration.

🎯 2. How Does the Series 63 Fit into Your Licensing?

• State Regulation: The Series 63 exam is state-specific, meaning that passing this exam qualifies you to sell securities within a state. Regardless of whether you’re selling mutual funds (Series 6) or a broader range of securities (Series 7), the Series 63 will be needed for state-level registration.
• Not a Standalone License: The Series 63 does not allow you to sell securities on its own. You must pair it with another license like the Series 6 or Series 7 to engage in specific sales activities.
• When You Need Series 63: After passing the SIE exam (a prerequisite for both Series 6 and Series 7), you’ll need to take the Series 63 before you can begin selling securities in most states. This ensures that you understand state-specific laws and ethical practices required in those states.

🎯 3. Timing Considerations

If You’re Pursuing the Series 6:

• Sequence: You may choose to take Series 63 before or after the Series 6 exam. Since the Series 6 focuses on selling mutual funds, variable annuities, and other investment company products, the Series 63 is usually required by the state for licensing, and you may want to complete both exams relatively close to each other.

If You’re Pursuing the Series 7:

• Sequence: Most people prefer to take Series 7 first, as it allows you to sell a wide range of securities. Afterward, you can take the Series 63 to comply with state-level licensing requirements.
• Benefit: With Series 7 already under your belt, you’ll be well-equipped to handle the broader scope of topics covered in the Series 63.

🎯 4. Summary of When to Take the Series 63

🚀 Conclusion: Should You Take Series 63 Before Series 6 or 7?

• Take the Series 63 exam early if your goal is to start working in specific states or to sell securities that have state-level regulations.
• For those pursuing Series 6, take Series 6 first followed by the Series 63.
• If you want to sell a broader range of securities, focus on Series 7 first and then take the Series 63.

Ultimately, the Series 63 exam complements the Series 6 and Series 7 exams and is necessary for full state-level licensing. Understanding the timing and sequence of these exams will help you plan your career path and obtain the appropriate licensing.

🎓 Need help preparing for the Series 63, 6, or 7 exams?
Access study materials, practice exams, and exam strategies at
👉 https://finra-exam-mastery.com

Get prepared and take your career in the securities industry to the next level!