What is the 63 series?

Series 63 is a certification allowing people to act as securities agents, obtaining and processing orders for all types of securities on behalf of clients. It is managed on the state according to the state foundation in the United States. People who want to work as agents, representatives and sellers in the securities industry have to pass license exams such as the 63 series, and a specific exam is required depending on the type of work the candidate wants to do. These tests are regularly carried out throughout the United States for a fee. Once they have gone through, they can apply for a 63 series in a state where they want to practice. The exam includes 65 questions, five of which are experimental. Testors have an hour and 15 minutes to complete the exam and may request a scratch of paper, even if it is usually not necessary. The test checks the knowledge of state regulations to sell securities. After completing the 63 series, they can have a license and can start exercising, work for themselves or for the agency. It is common that people,who are just starting in the securities industry, they will be sponsored for their tests with their employers, the employer pays for the test and provides access to testing.

also known as a unified state law for securities, series 63 was developed by the North American Securities (NASAA) Association (NASAA), a business organization focusing on consumers protection by determining standards and regulation of securities industry. The test is carried out by the Regulatory Office of the Tax Industry (Finra), the same organization responsible for the management of other qualification tests to people who want to work in Securities Industry.

People who have failed the test can repeat it again, although failure is relatively rare if people spend some time preparing. Many companies create materials for the preparation of 63 series tests including practical tests and study guides and NASAA itself publishes STUA dioxide handbook designed to familiarize with people with what will be in the test. These materials are available on the Internet and also via Post order programs. In addition, some organizations offer preparation of class tests, sometimes made available through a stock exchange or other financial market.