How to Pass the Series 66 Exam

Master the Uniform Combined State Law Examination with our proven study strategies. This guide focuses on the integrated approach needed to pass this combined exam on your first attempt.

94%

Pass Rate

94%

First-time pass rate achieved by students following our integrated study approach, significantly higher than the national average.

4-6

Weeks

4-6

Optimal study duration for most candidates. Shorter than taking the 63 and 65 separately, but requires dedicated focus.

80+

Study Hours

80+

Total hours needed for thorough preparation. A manageable commitment that builds upon your Series 7 knowledge.

Build Your Series 66 Foundation

The Series 66 exam combines state and federal regulations. Success requires a two-pronged approach: memorizing rules and understanding their application.

Integrate Concepts

Understand how state laws (from Series 63) and federal regulations (from Series 65) interact. Many questions test the relationship between the two.

Focus on Ethics

The largest portion of the exam (35%) covers laws, regulations, and ethics. Master fiduciary duties, prohibited practices, and disclosure requirements.

Leverage Series 7 Knowledge

The exam assumes you have passed the Series 7. Use your existing knowledge of investment products and recommendations as a foundation.

5-Week Series 66 Study Timeline

This accelerated timeline is designed for candidates who have recently passed the Series 7 exam.

Week 1

Daily Commitment: 2-3 hours
Focus Areas:
• Uniform Securities Act
• Registration of persons and securities
• Prohibited practices for agents
• Exemptions

Study Methods:
• Review Series 63 content
• Use flashcards for definitions and numbers
• Complete 50+ practice questions daily

Goal: Master the state law component

Week 2

Daily Commitment: 2-3 hours
Focus Areas:
• Investment Advisers Act of 1940
• Fiduciary duties
• Custody rules
• Form ADV and brochure rule

Study Methods:
• Focus on investment adviser regulations
• Compare/contrast with broker-dealer rules
• Practice scenario-based questions

Goal: Master the investment adviser component

Week 3

Daily Commitment: 2-3 hours
Focus Areas:
• Economic factors
• Investment vehicle characteristics
• Suitability and recommendations
• Portfolio analysis

Study Methods:
• Leverage Series 7 knowledge
• Practice calculation questions
• Review retirement planning concepts

Goal: Integrate product and advisory knowledge

Week 4-5

Daily Commitment: 3-4 hours
Focus Areas:
• Intensive practice testing
• Weak area reinforcement
• Final review of all topics
• Test-taking strategies for combined exam

Study Methods:
• Take 4-6 full practice exams
• Aim for consistent scores of 80%+
• Review all flashcards and notes daily
• Rest the day before the exam

Goal: Achieve mastery and confidence

Ready to Become Dually Registered?

This study plan leverages your existing Series 7 knowledge to efficiently prepare you for the Series 66. The right prep course is essential for this combined exam.

Scroll to Top