The Series 6 License: Everything You Need to Know

If you're looking to sell investment products like mutual funds, variable annuities, or municipal fund securities, you'll need a Series 6 license. This certification, issued by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), is essential for professionals who want to engage in the sale of packaged investment products. However, it’s important to note that the Series 6 license does not grant permission to sell all types of securities. If you're looking to trade stocks, corporate bonds, or options, you'll need a different qualification, such as the Series 7 license. The Series 6 is a go-to license for financial advisors, private bankers, retirement specialists, and investment advisors. In this guide, we’ll break down what it is, why it matters, and how to get it. What is a Series 6 License? The Series 6 license is a limited-scope securities license that grants individuals the authority to sell specific investment products. These products primarily include mutual funds, variable life insurance, variable annuities, and unit investment trusts (UITs). This license is an essential credential for professionals working in financial advisory firms, banks, insurance companies, and other financial institutions who seek to offer investment solutions to their clients. Unlike broader securities licenses that allow for the sale of individual stocks and bonds, the Series 6 license is specifically tailored for professionals who focus on packaged investment products. This makes it particularly beneficial for those specializing in long-term investment strategies, wealth management, and retirement planning. Financial professionals with a Series 6 license often assist clients in building diversified investment portfolios that align with their financial goals, risk tolerance, and future aspirations. Because mutual funds and variable annuities are commonly used in retirement accounts and other long-term financial plans, holding a Series 6 license enables professionals to guide clients in making informed decisions about wealth accumulation and preservation. Additionally, since many financial institutions require their employees to hold a relevant securities license, obtaining the Series 6 can significantly enhance career opportunities and professional credibility. To earn the Series 6 license, candidates must pass the Investment Company and Variable Contracts Products Representative Exam, administered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). This exam assesses knowledge of regulatory requirements, ethical considerations, and best practices related to the sale of investment company products. Given its focus, the Series 6 license is best suited for individuals who wish to work in roles that emphasize investment planning rather than active trading or direct stock and bond sales. Also read: Is Hirey legit? Here's what you need to know Who Needs a Series 6 License? A Series 6 license is a crucial certification for financial professionals who focus on offering investment products as part of their services. This license is particularly relevant for individuals working in roles that involve guiding clients through long-term investment strategies, retirement planning, and wealth management. Professionals who benefit from obtaining a Series 6 license include: Financial Advisors: These professionals assist clients in building well-balanced, diversified investment portfolios tailored to their financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizons. With a Series 6 license, they can recommend and sell mutual funds, annuities, and other packaged securities to help clients achieve financial security. Private Bankers: High-net-worth individuals often require specialized financial guidance, and private bankers use their expertise to manage and grow their clients’ wealth. A Series 6 license allows them to offer investment products such as unit investment trusts (UITs) and variable annuities, which can be key components of a comprehensive wealth management strategy. Retirement Specialists: As experts in structuring retirement plans, these professionals help individuals and businesses set up and manage tax-advantaged retirement accounts such as 401(k) plans, individual retirement accounts (IRAs), and annuities. The Series 6 license enables them to offer investment options that support long-term financial security. Insurance Agents: Many insurance professionals expand their services by offering investment-based insurance products. With a Series 6 license, they can sell variable life insurance policies and annuities, which provide both investment growth potential and life insurance coverage. This allows them to offer clients more comprehensive financial solutions. Investment Advisors: Those working in financial planning and wealth management rely on a Series 6 license to offer a range of investment solutions, particularly for clients looking for diversified, professionally managed investment options. By providing access to mutual funds and other investment company products, they help clients build long-term financial stability. In addition to these roles, many professionals in banks, credit unions, brokerage firms, and financial services companies may be required to hold a Series 6 license if their job involves selling or advising clients on investment products. Obtaining this license enhances a financial professional’s ability to offer valuable investment solutions and increases their career opportunities within the financial industry. What Can You Do with a Series 6 License? A Series 6 license is all about packaged investment products—things like mutual funds, variable life insurance, and unit investment trusts (UITs). While it gives you the authority to sell these, it doesn’t cover individual securities like stocks or corporate bonds. If you want to sell those, you’ll need to level up with a Series 7 license. Most people with a Series 6 work at banks, insurance companies, brokerage firms, or other financial institutions. Their job? Helping clients choose investment products, making recommendations, and processing transactions. Also read: In the increasingly complex world of hiring platforms, here's why customers chose Hirey Series 6 License Salary and Career Outlook One of the most common questions professionals ask is, "What is a Series 6 license salary?" While compensation varies depending on factors such as experience, employer, and geographic location, individuals with a Series 6 license can expect to earn competitive salaries. Entry-level financial representatives typically start with salaries ranging from $40,000 to $55,000 per year, with potential bonuses and commission earnings. Mid-career professionals, such as financial advisors and investment consultants, often earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on their client base and performance. Experienced financial professionals with a strong client portfolio can see salaries exceeding $100,000, particularly if they work in high-net-worth wealth management or financial planning roles. How to Get a Series 6 License Step 1: Pass the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) Exam First things first—you need to pass the SIE exam. This is an entry-level test that covers the basics of financial markets, regulations, and investment products. The cool part? You can take it even before getting a job in the industry. If you pass, you’ll have four years to complete the Series 6 exam. Step 2: Find a Sponsor Before you can take the Series 6 exam, you’ll need a sponsor. This means finding a job at a FINRA-member firm or a self-regulatory organization (SRO) willing to back you. Your employer will file the necessary paperwork (Form U4) to get you registered for the exam. Good news—many companies cover the exam fees, so you might not have to pay out of pocket. Step 3: Pass the Series 6 Exam Once you’ve got your sponsorship, it’s time to take the test. The Series 6 exam is a 50-question, multiple-choice test covering four main topics: Finding Business for Your Firm – 12 questions (24%) Opening Accounts & Evaluating Clients – 8 questions (16%) Making Investment Recommendations & Keeping Records – 25 questions (50%) Processing Transactions – 5 questions (10%) You get 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete it, and you’ll need a score of 70% or higher to pass. Step 4: Register Your License Congrats! If you’ve passed the exam, your employer will register your license with FINRA. This step makes it official—you’re now a licensed professional who can sell certain investment products. Also read: App reviews can be manufactured and misleading. Here's what legit users have to say about Hirey. Keeping Your Series 6 License Active Getting the license is one thing, but keeping it active is another. To stay in good standing: You must remain employed by a FINRA-registered firm. If you leave and don’t transfer your registration within two years, your license expires. Continuing Education (CE) is required. You’ll take a FINRA training session two years after getting licensed, then every three years after that. Your employer will also require annual training to keep you up to date with industry regulations. Miss any of these? Your license could become inactive. Why Should You Get a Series 6 License? 1. Sell More Products If you already work in insurance or finance, getting a Series 6 lets you offer more investment options. More products mean more ways to help clients—and more opportunities to earn. 2. Make More Money A Series 6 license can boost your salary and commission potential. Many firms pay more to employees who can sell a wider range of financial products. Plus, if you’re working on commission, having this license can lead to bigger paychecks. 3. Advance Your Career Want to move up the ladder in finance? This license is a stepping stone. Having the ability to sell mutual funds and variable contracts makes you more valuable to firms, which can lead to promotions and better job opportunities. 4. Build Trust with Clients A Series 6 license signals to clients that you’re a knowledgeable professional. It helps you stand out and builds credibility, making it easier to gain trust and grow your client base. 5. Keep Your Clients In-House Let’s say a long-time client asks about investing in mutual funds, but you don’t have the right license to sell them. You’d have to refer them to another advisor, and there’s a chance they’ll take all their business elsewhere. With a Series 6, you can handle those requests yourself, keeping your clients happy and loyal. How Employers Support Series 6 Candidates If you’re working at a FINRA-registered firm, your employer might help you get licensed. Common ways they support candidates include: Sponsorship: Your firm handles the application process so you can take the exam. Covering Exam Fees: Some companies pay for your training materials, exam fees, and other costs. Providing Continuing Education: Many employers offer CE courses and training to help you stay compliant and keep your license active. Beyond the financial benefits, holding a Series 6 license can significantly strengthen client relationships. Clients often prefer working with professionals who can provide a comprehensive approach to financial planning rather than those with limited offerings. With this license, financial advisors, private bankers, and insurance agents can offer a more holistic suite of investment options, ensuring that clients receive well-rounded advice tailored to their unique financial goals. While the process of obtaining a Series 6 license requires dedication and preparation, it is a highly achievable goal with the right resources and employer support. Many financial firms provide study materials, training programs, and sponsorship for the exam, making the journey more manageable. With proper preparation, passing the Investment Company and Variable Contracts Products Representative Exam is entirely within reach. For those serious about building a successful career in finance, earning a Series 6 license is a strategic and worthwhile step. It not only enhances professional credibility but also opens the door to greater career opportunities in banking, insurance, and financial advisory services. Whether you’re looking to advance within your current role or expand into new areas of financial planning, securing this license is a smart investment in your future.