Yes. Under SEC rules, an individual in good standing who holds a Series 7 (general securities representative), Series 65 (investment adviser representative) or Series 82 (private securities offerings representative) license can qualify as an accredited investor on professional credentials alone, without meeting the income or net worth tests. Other conditions of a specific offering still apply.
You work in the industry, or you passed one of these exams, and your income and net worth sit below the usual thresholds. You may wonder whether your license opens the door to private offerings that are limited to accredited investors. The answer is yes in principle, but only if the details line up.
What are the standard ways to qualify as accredited?
There are two groups of tests for individuals: financial criteria and professional criteria. The SEC's accredited investor page, last reviewed April 24, 2026, lists them.
Financial criteria
- Net worth over $1 million, excluding your primary residence (alone or with a spouse or partner)
- Income over $200,000 individually, or $300,000 with a spouse or partner, in each of the prior two years, with a reasonable expectation of the same this year
Professional criteria
- Investment professionals in good standing holding the Series 7, Series 65 or Series 82 license
- Directors, executive officers or general partners of the company selling the securities
- Any "family client" of a "family office" that itself qualifies as accredited
- For investments in a private fund, "knowledgeable employees" of the fund
What do the three licenses cover?
The SEC names each license by function, and each is a separate route.
| License | SEC description | Typical holder |
|---|---|---|
| Series 7 | General securities representative | Brokerage registered representatives |
| Series 65 | Investment adviser representative | Advisers who give investment advice for a fee |
| Series 82 | Private securities offerings representative | Professionals who sell private placements |
Any one of the three is enough under the SEC criteria. You do not need all of them.
What does "in good standing" mean?
It means the license is active and you are not barred or suspended. Passing an exam years ago is not the same as holding a current license. If you left the industry and your registration lapsed, you should not assume you still qualify on that basis.
Look yourself up on BrokerCheck to see how your registration status appears publicly. If you are unsure, ask the issuer or your compliance department rather than guessing.
How is status verified in a private offering?
Issuers must be reasonably sure of your status. In a 506(b) offering, an investor may often self-certify. In a 506(c) offering the issuer must take reasonable steps to verify, which can include confirming a license. The differences are explained in Rule 506(b) vs 506(c).
Being accredited only means you may be eligible to be offered a private investment. It does not make the investment suitable or safe. Private placements are illiquid and can lose value, and our overview of what a private placement is covers the risks. Full definitions are in what an accredited investor is.
What should you have ready if an issuer asks for proof?
Keep a few records on hand so you are not scrambling when a subscription document arrives. None of this is legal advice, and each issuer sets its own process.
- Your CRD number or a BrokerCheck or IAPD printout showing your current registration and licenses.
- Your employer's confirmation if the issuer asks for a letter, since some will accept a letter from your firm.
- Proof of the financial tests as a backup, such as tax returns for the income test or statements for the net worth test, in case your license route is not accepted.
What if you do not qualify?
Many investments are open to everyone. Public stocks, bonds, index funds and registered funds do not require accredited status, and Regulation Crowdfunding and other exemptions allow some non-accredited participation within limits. Not qualifying is not a sign that you are missing out. Use our guide to how to choose a financial advisor if you want help matching options to your situation.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need all three licenses to be accredited?
No. According to the SEC, holding the Series 7, Series 65 or Series 82 license in good standing is enough on its own.
Do I still qualify if my license lapsed?
The SEC criterion says investment professionals in good standing. If your registration has lapsed, confirm your status with the issuer instead of assuming it.
Does being accredited mean an offering is right for me?
No. Accreditation is an eligibility category, not a suitability judgment. Read the offering documents, review the risk factors and consider professional advice.
Where can I read the official definition?
The SEC publishes it on its capital-raising building blocks page, and the rule text is Regulation D, Rule 501(a).
Related: What is an accredited investor? · Rule 506(b) vs 506(c) · What is a private placement?