Affiliation options

Frequently Asked Questions

If I choose to become a Registered Representative, should I get the Series 6 or the Series 7?

Most of our Advisors get the Series 6 license, because it is more than adequate for what they want in their practices. Think about it this way: Do you want to manage individual security portfolios where the client is inclined to call you on a daily basis to see how the portfolio is performing? Or would you prefer to implement sound financial advice using mutual funds that are professionally managed by a team of analysts that have management of that portfolio as their only job responsibility? For most of our Representatives, it is a simple business decision.

If you have time, and you're motivated to go through the additional study time, you can take the Series 7 exam. It will provide good insight and you'll learn about individual securities and options.

How long will it take for me to get licensed?

How quickly you get licensed depends on how serious you are about getting up and running as soon as possible. The minimum recommended study time for the primary exams are:

Exam	Study Time
6	40 hours
7	90 hours
63	20 hours
65	45 hours

How long will it take for me to transfer my licenses to H.D. Vest?

If everything checks out on your U-4, Compliance won't have any additional questions for you. You can expect to be active within one to three weeks after we receive your application and form U-5 from your prior broker/dealer.

Can I operate as an OSJ (Office of Supervisory Jurisdiction)?

For us to properly supervise and support our Advisors, our Advisors do not act as OSJs. An OSJ handles all of their own compliance, sales supervision and processing of business. It is not only difficult to be an OSJ, it also exposes you to liability.

What happens once I become effective?

Once you become effective, you will receive a letter from our Securities Licensing department. Within three days of becoming effective, you will receive a call from your Wealth Management Support consultant. They will welcome you aboard and help you make the transition into the H.D. Vest system so you can start offering financial services to your clients.

How do I get started?

It's very easy. Simply partner with your H.D. Vest Advisor recruiter to complete the following steps:

1. Pre-application
2. Licensing application
3. Complete three Fingerprint Cards
4. Submit all items via overnight mail

After we receive your items, your application will be reviewed. When it is approved by H.D. Vest, we will set up your exam window(s) and order your study materials so you can start studying for your securities exam(s). After you have passed your exam(s), FINRA will review your file and notify us when you are approved as a Registered Representative.

You will then begin working with your H.D. Vest Wealth Management Support (WMS) consultant and taking part in our extensive training programs. We will prepare you to start making a difference in the financial lives of your clients.

Licensing Fees

How much does it cost for a new Advisor to get started with H.D. Vest?

The cost varies depending on the exam(s) you will be taking and the state(s) in which your investment clients reside. For most of our Advisors the total initial fees will run between $600 and $1,200. This includes everything to get started, including your regulatory fees, state fees, exam fees, background check and study materials. The H.D. Vest Recruiting department can help you determine the actual fees for you to join our firm.

These licensing fees get you started in a business with unlimited income potential and give you the opportunity to make a dramatic impact in your clients' lives. Where else can you start and run a business for such a small initial outlay?

How much does it cost for me to transfer to H.D. Vest?

This depends on the affiliation option you choose and state(s) where you will be doing business. The H.D. Vest Recruiting department can help you determine the actual fees for you to join H.D. Vest. Contact the Recruiting department at (800)742-7950.

How much are the annual renewal fees?

This depends on your affiliation type and the state(s) where you do business. For most Advisors the annual renewal fees will be $1,000 or lower. These fees include state, bonding and audit fees. For a more accurate estimate of your annual renewal fees, call the H.D. Vest Recruiting department at (800)742-7950.

When are the annual renewal fees billed?

We bill you for renewal fees for the upcoming year on your September 15 commission statement. You can pay by credit card, or your commissions can be debited, as long as there are enough commissions generated by December to cover the fees.

Do I need to get E&O insurance?

Unlike many of our competitors, we do not require our Advisors to carry E&O insurance. We do, however, strongly recommend that our Advisors protect themselves by purchasing E&O insurance. We have a partnership with Wells Fargo Insurance that lets our Advisors buy E&O insurance at very competitive rates.