FPSB’s Standards and Certification

A Framework for Financial Planning Professionalism

FPSB works in conjunction with members, practicing CFP professionals and subject-matter experts from around the world to create standards for the financial planning profession. FPSB’s certification standards demonstrate to those accessing the services of a CFP professional that the financial planner has met rigorous competency, ethics and professional practice standards to provide comprehensive financial planning to clients.
 
FPSB has developed a framework for financial planning that integrates competency, ethics and professional practice standards for financial planning, along with financial planner certification requirements in the areas of education, assessment, experience and continuing professional development. All organizations and individuals engaged in financial planning can embrace FPSB's professional framework for financial planning. 

CFP Certification

FPSB has specific requirements for the global CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER certification program. To administer the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER certification program, FPSB enters into licensing and affiliation agreements with nonprofit or equivalent organizations that become FPSB Members. By meeting and maintaining FPSB’s affiliation requirements and standards, FPSB Members are authorized to administer the CFP certification program in a territory, on behalf of FPSB.

To obtain CFP certification, individuals must meet rigorous initial certification requirements adapted to local marketplace needs by FPSB Members. To maintain their right to use the CFP Marks, CFP professionals must complete ongoing renewal requirements.

FPSB’s standards are designed to be consistent across borders; however, each organization administering CFP certification may adapt the standards to fit with local regulations, laws and products.  These standards are in compliance with FPSB’s public-interest mission of benefiting the clients and potential clients of financial planners looking to identify qualified financial planning professionals around the world.