Series 66 Exam Information

Series 66 Exam Overview & FAQs

The Uniform Combined State Law (Series 66) Exam

Created in 1995, the Series 66 exam was designed to ensure candidates have an understanding of various securities, products, ethics, and regulation. The Series 66 exam is administered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) for the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), and required by NASAA.

Topics include: uniform securities act, federal securities act, investment vehicles, portfolio & fixed income basics, financial profile, retirement & educational savings.

Series 66 Exam Difficulty Level

For students who have recently completed the Series 7, the Series 66 exam is easier than it is for students who have not. This is viewed as a tough exam because it is so broad. It’s recommended that students learn through a variety of methods, such as reading, as well as continuous practice exams. But with Pass Perfect’s proven preparation methods, you’ll be guaranteed to pass the first time. Our comprehensive learning platform is designed to get you through the test on the first attempt since failure requires a 30-day wait period.

After the Series 66

For current and potential Investment Adviser Representatives and Registered Representatives, the Series 66 exam is a great way to further your career. Series 66 is not a prerequisite for any other securities test, but SIE and Series 7 are co-requisites.

Series 66 FAQ

How long do I need to study for the Series 66 Exam?

When preparing to take the Series 66 exam, you should plan to study for 70-80 hours. Typically, candidates study over the course of 2 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 66 exam?

You will have 2 Hours and 30 Minutes to complete the Series 66 exam.

How many Series 66 questions are on the exam?

The Series 66 exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions.

What is the passing score for the Series 66 exam?

The minimum passing score for the Series 66 exam is 73%.

What is the Series 66 pass rate?

The Series 66 exam has approximately a 65-70% pass rate.

Is the Series 66 harder than the SIE?

Yes. Due to writing style and content, Series 66 is more challenging than SIE.

How do I register for the Series 66 exam?

Visit Finra.org to enroll for the Series 66 exam. The exam fee is $165, and there is no firm sponsorship required.

What happens if I fail the Series 66?

After the first or second time a candidate fails the Series 66, 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 180 days. The $165 exam fee applies each time they take the exam.

How many times can I take the Series 66 exam?

You may take the Series 66 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 180-day waiting period after the third failed attempt and beyond.

What do I bring to take the Series 66 exam?

You cannot bring in anything with you to take the Series 66 exam. No pen, pencil, calculator, cell phone, smart watch, or paper. Everything is prohibited.

Can I use a calculator on the Series 66 exam?

There are few calculation questions, so a calculator would not be useful, but will be provided by the testing center, if needed.

Are there prerequisites for the Series 66?

No, but SIE and Series 7 are co-requisites for Series 66.

Can I take the Series 66 before the SIE?

Yes, SIE and Series 7 are co-requisites for Series 66.

Who can take the Series 66?

Anyone can take the Series 66 — no sponsorship from a NASAA member firm is required.

What can I do after passing the Series 66 exam?

After passing the Series 66 exam — as well as the co-requisites, SIE and Series 7 — you can seek employment with a member firm.

How long is the Series 66 exam good for?

The Series 66 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.