How to register for the Series 6
- Get enrolled
Your sponsoring FINRA member firm enrolls you through CRD, typically by filing Form U4 or a Form U10 exam request. You cannot self-enroll for the Series 6.
- Pay the $100 fee
Paid at enrollment (by you or your firm). Verified on FINRA’s Series 6 page on 2026-09-23.
- Watch for your 120-day window
FINRA posts a 120-day scheduling window in CRD. Your exam must be taken inside it.
- Schedule with Prometric
Test center; online only with an approved accommodation.
- Reschedule early if needed
To avoid rescheduling or cancellation fees, change a FINRA-administered appointment at least 10 business days before the date.
- Test day
Bring valid government ID that matches your enrollment name, and arrive early (online candidates check in 30 minutes ahead).
Test center or online?
FINRA and NFA exams other than the SIE can be taken online only with an approved accommodation: candidates who are immunocompromised, or who live more than 150 miles from a test center (Online Exam Distance Request Form).
Current FINRA rule: wait 30 days after a first or second failed attempt, and 180 days after three failures in a row. Coming change: FINRA filed SR-FINRA-2026-014 (June 29, 2026) to cut those waits to 15 days and 60 days; FINRA says the new periods take effect on a date it will announce in a future Regulatory Notice. As of 2026-09-23 we found no implementation notice, so plan on 30/180.
How long your pass lasts
Your Series 6 result is valid for 2 years after your registration terminates (MQP can extend to 5). FINRA’s Maintaining Qualifications Program (MQP) lets eligible people who leave the industry keep their qualification for up to five years.
Booked your date? Start the full bank
Outline-weighted original questions with explanations, section drills and timed full-length exams. $79 one-time, 12 months, free access extension until you pass.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the Series 6 cost?
The exam fee is $100, paid at enrollment (verified 2026-09-23). Prep materials are separate.
How do I schedule the Series 6?
Once enrolled, FINRA opens a 120-day window and you book an appointment with Prometric.
Can I take the Series 6 online?
Only with an approved accommodation; most candidates test at a Prometric center.
What if I need to reschedule?
Change your appointment at least 10 business days in advance to avoid rescheduling or cancellation fees.
How soon can I retake the Series 6?
30 days after a first or second failure, 180 days after a third consecutive failure (current rules). A FINRA rule change to 15/60 days is filed but not yet implemented.
Sources
- FINRA - Series 6 Investment Company and Variable Contracts Products Representative Exam (accessed 2026-09-23)
- FINRA - Testing and Qualifications (accessed 2026-09-23)
- FINRA - Schedule an Exam (accessed 2026-09-23)
- FINRA - SIE Exam and Exam Restructuring FAQ (accessed 2026-09-23)
- FINRA - Reduces Waiting Periods for Retaking Qualification Exams (SR-FINRA-2026-014) (accessed 2026-09-23)
- FINRA - Maintaining Qualifications Program (MQP) (accessed 2026-09-23)
- FINRA - Qualification Exam FAQ (accessed 2026-09-23)