How to register for the SIE
- Get enrolled
You can enroll yourself. FINRA offers three ways in: self-enrollment through your FINRA account, enrollment by a firm through CRD, or a voucher. No sponsor is needed.
- Pay the $100 fee
Paid at enrollment (by you or your firm). Verified on FINRA’s SIE page on 2026-09-23.
- Watch for your 120-day window
FINRA posts a 120-day scheduling window in CRD. Your exam must be taken inside it.
- Schedule with Prometric
Test center or online (remote proctoring open to any SIE candidate).
- Reschedule early if needed
To avoid rescheduling or cancellation fees, change a FINRA-administered appointment at least 10 business days before the date.
- Test day
Bring valid government ID that matches your enrollment name, and arrive early (online candidates check in 30 minutes ahead).
Test center or online?
FINRA offers online delivery of the SIE to any candidate with an open enrollment window, using Prometric’s ProProctor remote-proctoring app (360-degree camera view of your workspace, government ID, clean desk). You can also test at a Prometric center.
Current FINRA rule: wait 30 days after a first or second failed attempt, and 180 days after three failures in a row. Coming change: FINRA filed SR-FINRA-2026-014 (June 29, 2026) to cut those waits to 15 days and 60 days; FINRA says the new periods take effect on a date it will announce in a future Regulatory Notice. As of 2026-09-23 we found no implementation notice, so plan on 30/180.
How long your pass lasts
Your SIE result is valid for 4 years from the date you pass.
Booked your date? Start the full bank
Outline-weighted original questions with explanations, section drills and timed full-length exams. $79 one-time, 12 months, free access extension until you pass.
Frequently asked questions
How much does the SIE cost?
The exam fee is $100, paid at enrollment (verified 2026-09-23). Prep materials are separate.
How do I schedule the SIE?
Once enrolled, FINRA opens a 120-day window and you book an appointment with Prometric.
Can I take the SIE online?
Yes, any SIE candidate can test online.
What if I need to reschedule?
Change your appointment at least 10 business days in advance to avoid rescheduling or cancellation fees.
How soon can I retake the SIE?
30 days after a first or second failure, 180 days after a third consecutive failure (current rules). A FINRA rule change to 15/60 days is filed but not yet implemented.
Sources
- FINRA - Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) Exam (accessed 2026-09-23)
- FINRA - Testing and Qualifications (accessed 2026-09-23)
- FINRA - Schedule an Exam (accessed 2026-09-23)
- FINRA - SIE Exam and Exam Restructuring FAQ (accessed 2026-09-23)
- FINRA - Reduces Waiting Periods for Retaking Qualification Exams (SR-FINRA-2026-014) (accessed 2026-09-23)