Question TypesMultiple Choice, Stand-alone questions, Case-study sets
FormatLinear (computer-based)
Online ProctoringAvailable
ID RequirementsOne government-issued photo ID with first and last name. Name must match registration exactly.
RenewalRequired -- Complete 30 CE hours every two years, including 2 hours of CFP Board-approved ethics CE. Pay annual certification fee. Agree to CFP Board's Standards of Professional Conduct.
Prerequisites6,000 hours of professional experience in financial planning OR 4,000 hours in an apprenticeship pathway; Completion of a CFP Board-registered education program covering the financial planning principal knowledge topics; Bachelor's degree (or higher) from an accredited college or university (may be completed after passing the exam but before certification)
Retake PolicyMaximum 4 lifetime attempts at the CFP Exam. Candidates who fail 4 times must petition the Board of Examiners for additional attempts. Exam offered 3 times per year (March, July, November).
LanguagesEnglish