The Securities Industry Essentials exam has one number to hit. Here it is, with the retake rules, from FINRA.
FINRA lists the passing score as 70.
The SIE is 75 scored multiple-choice questions plus 10 unscored, in 1 hour 45 minutes. FINRA puts scores on an equated scale, so 70 isn't a fixed count of right answers. You find out pass or fail right away, with performance feedback if you fail.
Checked October 24, 2026 against the official sources listed at the bottom of this page.
Take the free SIE practice test75 scored + 10 unscored, no sign-up| After | Wait now | From Jan 19, 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| 1st or 2nd failed attempt | 30 days | 15 days |
| 3rd failed attempt | 180 days | 60 days |
The shorter waits apply automatically to new enrollments and open enrollments without an appointment (FINRA Regulatory Notice 26-18).
Results are valid for four years. The SIE alone doesn't let you register; you also need a qualification exam such as the Series 7, taken through a member firm.
FINRA lists it as 70.
30 days after a first or second failed attempt and 180 days after a third. From January 19, 2027 those drop to 15 and 60 days.
Four years.