This is an introductory exam  for prospective securities industry professionals that is designed to assess a candidates knowledge of the basics of the securities industry.  The exam focuses on types of products and types of risks, understanding the securities markets, regulatory agencies, and prohibited practices.
To become eligible as a registered representative, an individual must pass the Essentials exam and the appropriate qualifying exam for their type of business.The exam consists of 75 multiple choice questions.
You will have 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete it.
You must have a passing score of 70%.The exam is open to anyone 18 years of age or older.
You do not have to be associated with a firm to take this exam.
Exam results are valid for 4-years.

Want to take a practice test? 

The exam you will take will cover the same material as this practice test.

Sections Percentage of Exam Questions Number of Exam Questions
(1) Knowledge of Capital Markets 16% 12
(2) Understanding Products and Their Risks 44% 33
(3) Understanding Trading, Customer Accounts and Prohibited Activities 31% 23
(4) Overview of Regulatory Framework 9% 7
TOTAL 100% 75

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