You’ve decided to enter the exciting world of wealth management and want to work at a broker-dealer as a Registered Representative. Now what?
Qualifications Overview
To be a Registered Representative (Registered Rep), you must be registered with an SEC registered broker-dealer, pass a qualifying exam, and be licensed by your state securities regulator. The firm will also be required to be registered with a self-regulatory organization or SRO (typically FINRA). You will also need to pass the appropriate qualifying exam, and be licensed by the appropriate state securities regulator.
To qualify as a Registered Rep, you must pass the Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) exam and the appropriate top-off examination. This could be the General Securities Representatives (Series 7) exam, or other qualification exam necessary for the type of business you will engage in.
The Securities Industry Essentials® (SIE®) Exam is an introductory level FINRA exam for prospective securities industry professionals that assesses a candidate’s knowledge of basic securities industry information.
The Series 7 examination allows you to demonstrate your proficiency in the foundational aspects of buying, selling or trading general securities. To take the Series 7 exam, you must be sponsored by a SEC registered broker-dealer.
Registration
Your firm’s Registration or Compliance department will register you with FINRA, other self-regulatory organizations and/or state regulators through an on-line licensing system known as the Central Registration Depository (CRD®). This process begins with your completion of the Uniform Application for Securities Industry Registration or Transfer, commonly referred to as the Form U4.
Your firm will submit the U4. All of the information you supply on your Form U4 must be complete, up-to-date and accurate. You are responsible for providing timely updates of your Form U4 information to your firm. Only a firm can correct or update a U4.
You may use FinPro, another FINRA system, to manage your registration information, schedule more exams, complete your Continuing Education (CE) requirements, and update your residence.
You are also required to provide your Social Security number and a fingerprint card. Once you securely register, you will receive a unique CRD® number that you will use throughout your career.
Maintaining Your Registration
Becoming a Registered Rep is not merely a one-time achievement but a continual commitment to excellence and professional development. As a Registered Rep, you are obligated to fulfill Continuing Education (CE) requirements, including Regulatory Element and Firm Element training.
Regulatory Element Training
Registered individuals must complete the Regulatory Element by Dec. 31 each year. Regulatory Element training includes information on significant rule changes and other regulatory developments relevant to each registration type. If you don’t complete your Regulatory Element training by December 31, your CRD number will become inactive.
Firm Element Training
Firm Element training, provided by your firm and tailored to your firm’s specific needs, equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform your duties effectively.
Registered Reps and Regulatory Oversight: Navigating Compliance
FINRA conducts examinations of firms as well as individual brokers. Under FINRA Rule 8210, you must provide information, documentation or testify during examinations or investigative processes. The obligation to respond to FINRA continues for at least two years after you have left the securities industry.
Compliance with regulatory standards is not only a professional obligation but a cornerstone of ethical conduct. Breaking compliance rules can result in disciplinary action. See FINRA’s Adjudication page to learn more about how FINRA disciplines firms and individuals. FINRA makes public fines greater than $10,000, or when a firm or member is banned from the organization. FINRA may also contact federal and state authorities.
Upholding Ethical Standards: Obligations to Firms and Clients
Upholding the principles of integrity, transparency, and fiduciary diligence is paramount in fostering trust and confidence in your professional capabilities.
Your obligations to your firm include compliance with securities laws and regulations, adherence to firm-specific policies and procedures, and active participation in compliance meetings. These measures safeguard the interests of both clients and stakeholders and mitigate the risks.
Your obligations to your clients are equally important. They require the disclosure of material information, suitability assessments, and adherence to ethical standards of conduct. As a custodian of your clients’ financial well-being, it is your responsibility to prioritize their interests above all else, with fairness and equity.
By embracing the principles of regulatory compliance, professional integrity, and the client as your central focus, you can navigate this landscape with confidence and distinction.
Compliance Support When You Need It
Oyster Consulting provides the risk and compliance consultants that Broker-Dealers and Investment Advisors need to maintain compliance with regulations, identify risks, and optimize processes and procedures. Our team of seasoned regulatory compliance consultants stands ready to provide guidance, support, and expertise to help your firm navigate the complexities of the securities industry.
