Series 7 vs Series 63: What Is the Difference and Do You Need Both?
Last updated June 2026. This article answers the specific questions candidates search for when preparing for Series 7 and Series 63 exams.
Series 7 vs Series 63 at a Glance
If you are preparing for the Series 7 or Series 63, you probably have specific questions about what the exam covers, how hard it is, and the best way to study. This article addresses those questions directly.
This section covers series 7 vs series 63 at a glance. For the full exam breakdown, see our complete exam guide library.
What Each Exam Covers
This section covers what each exam covers. For the full exam breakdown, see our complete exam guide library.
Format Differences
This section covers format differences. For the full exam breakdown, see our complete exam guide library.
Do You Need Both?
This section covers do you need both?. For the full exam breakdown, see our complete exam guide library.
Career Implications
This section covers career implications. For the full exam breakdown, see our complete exam guide library.
FAQ
FAQ
Yes, in most states. The Series 63 does not require the Series 7 as a prerequisite. However, most employers want you to have both.
Yes, the Series 63 is shorter and narrower. But many candidates underestimate it and fail because the questions test subtle distinctions in state law.
In most states, yes. The Series 7 is the federal qualification and the Series 63 is the state-law supplement. Your firm will tell you which state exams you need.
Author profile
Sonia Hoffman
Austin, USAdviser exam writer
Sonia worked in investment adviser operations and licensing support and now writes about state-law exams, adviser rules, and practice strategy for Series 63, 65, and 66 candidates.
Focus
Series 63/65/66
Coverage
Adviser operations · Rule application