FAQ
Financial Examiner FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a financial examiner.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a financial examiner: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about financial examiners
Who hires financial examiners?
Federal and state regulators, plus some private firms.
Is travel required?
Often, yes.
Is the field growing?
Yes, BLS projects faster than average growth.
How much does a financial examiner make?
The median annual wage for financial examiners was $94,160 ($45.27 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $56,230 and the highest 10% earned more than $174,200.
How long does it take to become a financial examiner?
Most people need about Several years of exam training of training. A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting or economics is typical, plus long-term training.
Do you need a degree to be a financial examiner?
Usually, yes. BLS lists a bachelor's degree as the typical entry-level education, although skills, certifications and experience can sometimes substitute.
Is financial examiner a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +9.3% from 2025–35 (much faster than average), with about 4,500 openings each year. Upsides include faster-than-average growth; a common challenge is that frequent travel.
What skills does a financial examiner need?
Key technical skills include financial analysis, loan review, banking regulation, and auditing. Employers also value integrity, skepticism, and communication.
What certifications are available for financial examiners?
Common credentials include Commissioned examiner, CPA, CAMS, and CRCM. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Financial Examiner fit quiz, compare with Compliance Officer, or explore Financial Examiner training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 13-2061 (Financial examiners).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Financial examiners (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.