Finra delays launch of online securities licensing exams

Finra delays launch of online securities licensing exams
An update on the regulator's website says more time needed for system testing
MAY 11, 2020

Finra and state securities regulators have delayed the launch of online testing for securities licenses.

The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority Inc. and the North American Securities Administrators Association were to start online testing on May 24, and sign-ups were to have begun Monday.

Pilot testing of the system began in late April and has now been extended, Finra said in an update on its website.

“As a result, additional time is necessary before we can make online appointment scheduling available to all test candidates and firms,” Finra said. “We will continue to refine the implementation of this online service and will communicate an anticipated launch date in the near future.”

Finra and the states were moving toward online testing in response to social distancing requirements during the COVID-19 pandemic. Once the system is up and running, candidates will be able to take the following qualification exams: Securities Industry Essentials and Series 6, 7, 63, 65 and 66. The exams will be administered by Prometric.  

Finra, NASAA and the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board will extend through June 30 all enrollment windows that have expired or will expire between March 16 and June.

Testing experts say the move to remote examinations is a change that likely will remain in place even after the pandemic passes.

Latest News

The power of cultivating personal connections
The power of cultivating personal connections

Relationships are key to our business but advisors are often slow to engage in specific activities designed to foster them.

A variety of succession options
A variety of succession options

Whichever path you go down, act now while you're still in control.

'I’ll never recommend bitcoin,' advisor insists
'I’ll never recommend bitcoin,' advisor insists

Pro-bitcoin professionals, however, say the cryptocurrency has ushered in change.

LPL raises target for advisors’ bonuses for first time in a decade
LPL raises target for advisors’ bonuses for first time in a decade

“LPL has evolved significantly over the last decade and still wants to scale up,” says one industry executive.

What do older Americans have to say about long-term care?
What do older Americans have to say about long-term care?

Survey findings from the Nationwide Retirement Institute offers pearls of planning wisdom from 60- to 65-year-olds, as well as insights into concerns.

SPONSORED The future of prospecting: Say goodbye to cold calls and hello to smart connections

Streamline your outreach with Aidentified's AI-driven solutions

SPONSORED A bumpy start to autumn but more positives ahead

This season’s market volatility: Positioning for rate relief, income growth and the AI rebound