4 Steps to Obtaining CFP® Certification

CFP® certification, also known as CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification, is the standard for financial planners. It sets CFP® professionals apart from other financial advisors because it signals to clients — and potential employers — that you have met extensive training and experience requirements and are committed to high ethical standards. In fact, many financial planning companies actively seek and support candidates pursuing CFP® certification.

Here’s a quick overview of the four requirements you must fulfill to obtain CFP® certification.

1. Complete the Education Requirement:
   The two-part education requirement includes completing financial planning coursework through a CFP Board Registered Program and holding a bachelor’s or higher degree in any discipline from an accredited college or university. The two main routes are to pursue an undergraduate or graduate financial planning degree in a program registered with CFP Board, or to complete a certificate-level CFP Board Registered Program, if you already have a college degree or are currently pursuing a degree in a different field. Learn more about the education requirement.
2. Pass the CFP® Exam
   The CFP® Exam is a comprehensive test that consists of multiple-choice questions completed over 6 hours. The exam includes:
   
   • Stand-alone questions
   • Scenario-based questions
   • Questions related to case studies
   Learn more about the CFP® exam.
3. Accumulate Relevant Experience:
   You must complete either 6,000 hours of professional experience related to the financial planning process or 4,000 hours of apprenticeship experience that meets additional requirements. When pursuing the apprenticeship option, the 4,000 hours of experience must be derived by personally engaging with individual clients under the direct supervision of a CFP® professional. Learn more about the experience requirement.
4. Sign the Ethics Declaration and Pass a Background Check:
   The ethics requirement is the final step on the path to CFP® certification. An applicant must complete the Ethics Declaration, and then the CFP Board will conduct a background check. CFP Board will evaluate an applicant’s background against CFP Board’s Fitness Standards. Learn more about the Ethics Declaration and background check.