Series 63 Exam Validity in 2025: How Long Does Your Score Last Without Registration?
Discover the duration of Series 63 exam score validity if you're no longer registered, how registration works, and key state-specific rules for financial professionals in 2025.
Suzanne is an experienced content marketer and finance writer with a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Bridgewater State University. She specializes in creating strategic, fact-based financial content.
The Series 63 exam, officially called the Uniform Securities State Law Examination, is a crucial state-level test for broker-dealer representatives. It is developed by the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA) and administered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).
Understanding the Series 63 Exam Process
Generally, candidates take the Series 63 exam through their employer, who must be a FINRA member firm and demonstrate intent for the candidate to take the exam. This process is similar for Series 65 and Series 66 exams. However, individuals who are unemployed, transitioning careers, or not affiliated with a FINRA member firm can also register directly via FINRA's website to open an enrollment window.
How Long Is Your Series 63 Exam Score Valid in 2024?
Most states accept passing Series 63 exam results that are less than two years old. After this period, acceptance depends on individual state policies and is not guaranteed. If you remain employed with the sponsoring firm, your Series 63 results stay valid. Leaving or being terminated from that firm ends your Series 63 state registration.
You then have a two-year window to secure new employment and re-register using your existing exam score before it expires. Note that moving to a different state may alter your Series 63 requirements. While most states mandate the Series 63 exam alongside Series 6 or 7 licenses to sell securities, some states—including Colorado, Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, Ohio, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico—do not require passing this exam.
When you leave a sponsoring firm, they typically file a U5 form to terminate your registration. Your new employer must submit a U4 form to reinstate your registration. Some states do not require registration for certain roles, but employers might still mandate it.
Important Considerations and Waivers
State regulators may grant waivers under specific circumstances when registration expires, especially if you continue working in financial services but in a role that doesn’t usually require state registration. For detailed waiver policies, contact your state regulator. NASAA provides a directory of state regulators and their contact details.
Keep in mind, employers often require registrations beyond state minimums. State requirements vary on which finance careers need licensing and registration. For example, merely taking securities orders may trigger registration requirements in some states. Candidates should consult both their employers and state regulators to understand the exact policies applicable to their desired financial career paths.
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