Looks like series 65 is the way to go since series 82 also requires sponsorship.
Depends. If simply passing the exam was enough, that does seem semi-reasonable. But if it requires you actually be licensed by your respective state, then the rabbit-hole goes much deeper. I looked at the requirements here in NC, although I don't know how representative they are of other states, but basically you'd have to register with the State as an investment management company (which would probably entail registering an LLC or something), and then pay them $300 / year to keep up your registration. Add the $200/ year or so for the LLC filing fees, as well as the paperwork requirements (annual report, etc), tax filings, and suchlike, and you're talking about a barrier that while not insurmountable, is still going to be fairly steep for most people.
Depends. If simply passing the exam was enough, that does seem semi-reasonable. But if it requires you actually be licensed by your respective state, then the rabbit-hole goes much deeper. I looked at the requirements here in NC, although I don't know how representative they are of other states, but basically you'd have to register with the State as an investment management company (which would probably entail registering an LLC or something), and then pay them $300 / year to keep up your registration. Add the $200/ year or so for the LLC filing fees, as well as the paperwork requirements (annual report, etc), tax filings, and suchlike, and you're talking about a barrier that while not insurmountable, is still going to be fairly steep for most people.