Series 10 Exam Information

Series 10 Exam Overview & FAQs

The General Securities
Sales Supervisor (Series
10) Exam

Created in 1981, the Series 10 exam was designed to assess the competency of an entry-level principal to perform their job as a general securities sales supervisor. The Series 10 exam is administered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), and required by FINRA, MSRB, and SEC.

Topics include: sales supervision, customer accounts, new issues/trading markets, investment companies, retirement plans, financial responsibility, and MSRB rules.

Series 10 Exam Difficulty Level

Due to the breadth of material and subjective nature of the answer choices, the Series 10 exam is one of the most challenging FINRA exams. Many testers are well prepared to pass on their first attempt, but on average it takes up to two tries. It’s recommended that students learn through a variety of methods, such as class attendance and reading, as well as continuous practice exams with an extreme focus on final exam questions and the associated rationales. But with Pass Perfect’s proven preparation methods, you’ll be guaranteed to pass the first time.

After the Series 10

For potential principals, branch office managers, and sales supervisors, the Series 10 exam is a great way to further your career. Series 9 is a co-requisite of the Series 10 exam.

Series 10 FAQ

How long do I need to study for the Series 10 Exam?

When preparing to take the Series 10 exam, you should plan to study for 70-80 hours. Typically, candidates study over the course of 3-4 weeks. The time you need to spend preparing for the exam varies depending on your familiarity with the material. Our adaptive preparation provides extra help where needed to make sure you spend your study time wisely and take the test with confidence.

How much time do I have on the Series 10 exam?

You will have 4 Hours to complete the Series 10 exam.

How many Series 10 questions are on the exam?

The Series 10 exam consists of 145 multiple choice questions.

What is the passing score for the Series 10 exam?

The minimum passing score for the Series 10 exam is 70%.

What is the Series 10 pass rate?

The Series 10 exam has approximately a 70% pass rate.

Is the Series 10 harder than the SIE?

Yes. Series 10 is more challenging than SIE due to difficult and comprehensive material.

How do I register for the Series 10 exam?

Visit Finra.org to enroll for the Series 10 exam. The exam fee is $145, , and a sponsoring FINRA member firm will need to handle the paperwork.

How do I register for the Series 10 exam?

Visit Finra.org to enroll for the Series 10 exam. The exam fee is $145, , and a sponsoring FINRA member firm will need to handle the paperwork.

Can I take the Series 9 and Series 10 together?

Though many students prefer to take the test separately, and there is no guarantee that the testing center will have available slots on the same day, you can sit for both tests at one time.

What happens if i fail the Series 10?

After the first or second time a candidate fails the Series 10, there is a mandatory 30-day waiting period before they can take the exam again. After the third (and subsequent) fails, the waiting period increases to 6 months. The $145 exam fee applies each time they take the exam.

How many times can I take the Series 10 exam?

You may take the Series 10 exam as many times as it takes to pass. Note there is a 30-day waiting period after your first and second failed attempt, and a 6-month waiting period after the third failed attempt and beyond. The $145 exam fee applies each time you take the test.

What do I bring to take the Series 10 exam?

You cannot bring in anything with you to take the Series 10 exam. No pen, pencil, calculator, cell phone, smart watch, or paper. Everything is prohibited.

Can I use a calculator on the Series 10 exam?

A calculator will be provided by the testing center, if needed.

Are there prerequisites for the Series 10?

Yes. SIE and Series 7 are prerequisites for Series 10. Series 9 is a co-requisite.

Who can take the Series 10?

Not everyone can take the Series 10 — sponsorship from a FINRA member firm is required, meaning a candidate must first be hired by a FINRA member firm.

What can I do after passing the Series 10 exam?

After passing the Series 10 exam, you can assume a managerial role at a financial services firm.

How long is the Series 10 exam good for?

The Series 10 exam does not expire unless you leave the employ of the member firm. There is a 2-year grace period — after the 2-year employment lapse, retesting is required.