SeriesPrepKit

What Order to Take FINRA Exams

Take the SIE first, then the Series 7 once a firm sponsors you, then the Series 63 (broker) or Series 66 (broker + adviser). Fee-only advisers can skip all of that and take the Series 65 alone.

Updated 2026-09-23 · 4 sources · By the SeriesPrepKit team

The order, by goal

GoalOrderWhy this order
BrokerSIE -> Series 7 -> Series 63SIE first (no sponsor), 7 once hired, 63 for states
Broker + adviserSIE -> Series 7 -> Series 66The 66 assumes Series 7 product knowledge and needs the 7 for registration
Fee-only adviserSeries 65No prerequisites; stands alone
Funds and annuities onlySIE -> Series 6 -> Series 63Narrower top-off exam
Not hired yetSIE (then wait)Valid four years; strengthens your application

Rules that drive the order

  • The SIE is a co-requisite, not a strict prerequisite, for the Series 6 and 7: you need both to register, in either order.
  • The Series 7 and 6 require sponsorship; the SIE, 63, 65 and 66 do not.
  • The Series 66 requires a valid SIE and Series 7 at registration, which is why it comes last.
  • Validity clocks: SIE 4 years; NASAA exams 2 years before you register.

Tools

Which license do I need?Path + total feesStudy plan generatorHours by outline weight

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Frequently asked questions

Should I take the SIE or Series 7 first?

Usually the SIE, because you can take it before you are hired. Once sponsored, either order works.

Should I take the Series 63 or 66 after the Series 7?

The 63 if you will only earn commissions; the 66 if you will also give fee-based advice.

Sources

  1. FINRA - SIE Exam and Exam Restructuring FAQ (accessed 2026-09-23)
  2. FINRA - Series 7 General Securities Representative Exam (accessed 2026-09-23)
  3. FINRA - Series 66 Uniform Combined State Law Exam (accessed 2026-09-23)
  4. NASAA - Exam FAQs (accessed 2026-09-23)
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