11 Industries That Require Continuing Education

9. Financial Services (CFP®, Investment Advisors)

Financial credentials and registrations typically carry ongoing education expectations. For example, the CFP Board requires certificants to complete continuing education, including ethics and professional development credits; FINRA and state securities regulators oversee continuing education or training for registered representatives and investment advisors. To determine exact credit counts and cycles, visit the CFP Board (https://www.cfp.net), FINRA (https://www.finra.org), or your state securities regulator. Steps to stay compliant: 1) Review credentialing body requirements and any ethics components first; 2) Schedule CE early in the renewal cycle to avoid last-minute compliance gaps; 3) Use approved providers and retain completion records. Many firms reimburse CE costs or offer in-house programs that qualify toward required credits.