Series 63 Explained: What Australians Need to Know

If you’re an Australian finance professional eyeing opportunities in the US or working with American clients, you may have heard the term Series 63. But what exactly does this licence entail, and why should Australians care about a US-based finance credential in 2025? Let’s break down the essentials—and the surprising ways it could shape your global finance career.

Series 63: The US State Law Licence for Securities

The Series 63, formally called the Uniform Securities Agent State Law Examination, is a qualification administered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) in the United States. It’s required for individuals who want to act as securities agents in many US states. In essence, the Series 63 ensures that professionals understand state-level regulations around offering and selling securities, including ethical practices, compliance, and fiduciary duties.

• Administered by: FINRA and the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA)

• Required for: US-based securities agents and some international professionals working with US clients

• Exam format: 60 multiple-choice questions, 75 minutes, with a passing score of 72%

In 2025, the Series 63 remains a core requirement for those looking to advise or transact in US securities markets, either directly or through cross-border financial services.

Why Should Australians Care About Series 63?

While the Series 63 is a US qualification, its relevance has grown for Australians in several ways:

• Cross-border finance roles: As more Australian banks, fintechs, and wealth management firms expand into the US, professionals may need US licences to legally serve American clients or operate US subsidiaries.

• Remote work and global teams: The rise of remote-first finance roles means Australian advisors are increasingly working with US-based clients or teams. Holding a Series 63 can be a competitive edge.

• Regulatory compliance: In 2025, US regulators are tightening enforcement of state-level securities rules—making Series 63 compliance even more critical for firms with US exposure.

For example, an Australian investment adviser employed by a Sydney-based firm with a New York office may be required to pass the Series 63 to provide investment advice to US residents.

2025 Policy Trends: Series 63 and International Finance

This year, several changes and trends have impacted how the Series 63 fits into the global finance puzzle:

• Digital exam access: As of late 2024, FINRA expanded remote proctoring for the Series 63, making it accessible to Australians without requiring travel to the US.

• Increased scrutiny of cross-border transactions: US states are updating enforcement priorities to cover non-US professionals who serve American clients, particularly in digital asset and ESG investing.

• Australian firms seeking dual accreditation: More Aussie wealth managers and fintechs are encouraging staff to gain both local (ASIC RG146) and US (Series 63/7/65) licences to future-proof careers and firm compliance.

Notably, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and US regulators have begun closer cooperation on cross-border compliance, especially as fintech and crypto services blur jurisdictional lines.

How to Prepare for the Series 63 as an Australian

If you’re considering the Series 63, here’s a quick roadmap tailored for Australians:

• Check your eligibility: Most candidates need to be sponsored by a FINRA-member firm, though some exceptions apply for certain international advisory roles.

• Study the US regulatory landscape: Focus on state securities laws, anti-fraud provisions, and ethical obligations. Many providers offer online prep courses suitable for international candidates.

• Schedule the exam: With expanded digital access, you can now sit the exam from Australia at approved remote testing centres or from home (with strict security protocols).

Passing the Series 63 opens the door to US-focused roles in investment advice, private banking, and fintech—especially for Australians who want to work globally without relocating.

Conclusion: Series 63 and the Future of Australian-US Finance Careers

As finance becomes more global and cross-border opportunities grow, credentials like the Series 63 are emerging as key differentiators for Australian professionals. Whether you’re targeting a Wall Street posting, advising US expats, or future-proofing your fintech career, understanding and potentially attaining the Series 63 could be your next strategic move in 2025.