License ladder

What is the Series 63 exam?

The state-law layer: short, specific, and required by most states on top of your FINRA exams.

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In short

The Series 63 — the Uniform Securities Agent State Law Examination — is a NASAA exam administered by FINRA. It has 60 scored questions plus 5 unscored, a 75-minute limit, and a passing mark of 43 of 60. It exists because securities registration is also a state matter: most states require it before a broker-dealer agent can do business with their residents, on top of the SIE and a FINRA top-off like the Series 7.

The exam, as published

From FINRA's Series 63 page (read 2026-09-01).
FactValue
Scored questions60 (plus 5 unscored)
Time limit75 minutes
Passing43 of 60 correct
Written byNASAA (state regulators), administered by FINRA

That is under 80 seconds a question on the tightest budget in the ladder — but the content is the narrowest too: state registration rules, prohibited practices and fiduciary obligations under the Uniform Securities Act.

Where it fits

The ladder starts at the SIE

Whichever top-off you end up needing, the SIE comes first — and it is the one exam you can prepare for before any firm hires you.

Start free SIE practice

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the Series 63?

60 scored questions plus 5 unscored, with 75 minutes to finish. Passing requires 43 of the 60 scored questions correct.

Who needs the Series 63?

Broker-dealer agents, in the states that require it — most do. It sits on top of the SIE and a FINRA representative exam such as the Series 7 or 6.

Is the Series 63 a FINRA exam?

It is a NASAA exam — written by the state regulators' association — administered by FINRA.

Series 63 or Series 66?

If you only need broker-dealer agent registration, the 63. If you also need investment adviser representative registration, the 66 covers both and pairs with the Series 7.

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