What to Expect on Series 6 Exam Day
- April 1, 2025
- Posted by: 'FINRA Exam Mastery'
- Category: Finance
🟦 What to Expect on Series 6 Exam Day
If you’re gearing up for the Series 6 exam, knowing what to expect on test day can help ease nerves and set you up for success. Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know before walking into the testing center.
🕗 Arrival and Check-In Process
Arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow time for the check-in procedure. The testing center will require:
✅ A valid, government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport or driver’s license)
✅ Signature verification
✅ A palm vein scan or fingerprint (depending on the center)
✅ Removal of personal items (phones, smartwatches, bags) — these are stored in a locker during the exam.
Expect a short security screening, including turning out your pockets.
💻 Exam Environment
The Series 6 exam is taken on a computer in a quiet, monitored room. You’ll be provided with:
🖊 A dry-erase board and marker or scratch paper
🧮 A basic calculator (in some locations)
⏱ An on-screen timer
🪑 Noise-canceling headphones (optional)
You’ll have 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete 50 multiple-choice questions.
📋 During the Exam
🔹 You can flag questions to return to them later
🔹 You are allowed no breaks once the exam begins — any unscheduled break ends your exam
🔹 Be mindful of the time limit — pacing is key
🔹 There’s a short survey at the end, then you’ll receive your result immediately
🎯 Passing Score and Exam Structure
The passing score is 70%, and the exam covers:
- Securities and Investment Products
- Customer Accounts and Documentation
- Evaluating Customers’ Financial Profiles
- Handling Purchase and Sale of Securities
Questions are designed to test both your knowledge and practical understanding.
✅ Post-Exam
You’ll get a printout of your results — pass or fail — at the test center. If you pass, your results are automatically sent to FINRA and your firm.
If you don’t pass, don’t worry — you can retake the exam after 30 days (the first two times). After the third failure, there’s a 180-day waiting period.
📚 Ready to master the Series 6 exam?
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