Chapter Introduction

This chapter covers 5% of the Series 63 exam (approximately 3 questions).


What You'll Learn

UnitTopicKey Concepts
1Definition of an Investment Adviser RepresentativeIAR definition, registration and post-registration, Form U4, exams and waivers, the de minimis exemption

Why This Chapter Matters

An IAR is an individual; the adviser is the firm. The exam repeatedly tests that split, and the place-of-business rule that decides when an IAR of a federal covered adviser must still register with the state.


Exam Strategy

At 5% of the exam, this chapter produces about 3 questions. Focus on:

  • IARs register with the state, never the SEC, whatever the firm's registration
  • Automatic registration is narrow: only partners, officers, and directors of the adviser
  • De minimis and the professional-designation waiver apply to IARs, not to agents
  • A federal covered adviser's IAR registers where it has a place of business

-> Start Unit 1: Definition of an Investment Adviser Representative