| Aspect | Commission Series 65 License | Investment Advisor Representative |
|---|
| Required Credentials | Series 65 license, passing exam | Registered with SEC/State, often holds Series 65 |
| Work Environment | Independent or firm-based financial advice | Provides personalized investment advice, fiduciary duty |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Used by financial advisors, broker-dealers | Registered investment advisors, RIAs |
| Common Search/Comparison | Yes | Yes |
The Commission Series 65 License qualifies individuals to provide investment advice and charge fees, often working independently or within firms. Investment Advisor Representatives (IARs) are registered professionals who offer personalized financial advice and are fiduciaries. While both roles involve investment advisory services, the Series 65 license is a certification needed to operate as an IAR. Essentially, the Series 65 is a credential, whereas an IAR is a registered professional providing ongoing advisory services.