Ryan-

As far as the series 63 goes, whether you have to be licensed or not, is unnecessary to take all by itself.  Number one thing you should do is try to get some sort of internship at a brokerage , b/d firm where you can learn some basic things about the business.  I think you have to be employed for about 4 months in order to get the Series 7. Concentrate on getting that first.  The 63 is merely a uniform securities exam for the state, whereas the 7 is a federal exam.  After getting the 7 look to take the 66 which is the 63 and the investment advisor exam.  it is much harder than the 63, but you will have you advisor license which will make you a little more marketable.  Worry about that later.  For now, find a place to sponsor you for the 7, and get it done.

good luck

Ryan, Bullmarket is giving you good advice. As far as which course materials are best you will find that there are usually both negative and positive comments about all the major vendors. So, pick one and start studying. But again, Bullmarket is giving you great advice.Best wishes.

Thank you for the advice it is very much appreciated. I'm currently working in fund accounting so I would imgaine its a dead end as far as a sponsor goes. I was only looking at the 63 as a start because I assumed with my lack of real life experience I wouldn't be able to get anywhere near a sponsor for 7.

You guys bring up great points but just out of curiosity do you guys think there would be any merit in getting the 63 while I'm just building up some work experience? Or should I just forget about that totally and just really focus on a sponsor and start looking over information for the 7?

The 63 is so easy compared to the 7 don't waste your time.  Concentrate on getting the 7 then the 63 ... etc.  Books?  I used pass the 7 at first but by far not enough info.  Its a easy read so If you want to something to look at while looking for a place to sponsor, thats okay.  But when you find a place most likely they will have much better materials that you can use.