Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Business
Financial Advisor Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for financial advisor in Washington, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Financial Advisor in Washington
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Tied to business.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Financial Institutions
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$112,020 median (10% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#9 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Financial Advisor licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Financial Institutions and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $112,020, Financial Advisors in Washington earn 10% above the national median of $102,140. Washington ranks #9 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$112,020Hourly estimate
$53.8610% above national median
Difference: +$9,880
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFinancial Advisor Salary Ranking
#9 of 50 statesfor Financial Advisor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New York | $167,970 |
| #2 | Idaho | $136,440 |
| #3 | California | $128,650 |
| #4 | Delaware | $128,170 |
| #5 | New Jersey | $123,690 |
Nearby States Comparison
Financial Advisor licensing across the regionLicense by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Idaho | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Financial Institutions
150 Israel Rd SW, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3609028700
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $97,800 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $73,160 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $96,180 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $105,090 | No educational requirements | 8 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Financial Advisor in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Financial Advisors in Washington?
Washington lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Financial Advisors.
What is the typical Financial Advisor salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Financial Advisors in Washington is $112,020.
How does the Financial Advisor salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Financial Advisors in Washington earn 10% above the national median of $102,140, with a state median of $112,020.
How many Financial Advisors work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 6,510 Financial Advisors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Financial Advisor license to Washington from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Financial Advisors in Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Financial Institutions. Review agency details at http://www.dfi.wa.gov/.
How often do you renew a Financial Advisor license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.