Career roadmap
How to Become a Financial Examiner
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a financial examiner, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a financial examiner: (1) earn a bachelor’s, (2) join a regulator, (3) complete training, (4) earn a commission, (5) advance. Most people need about Several years of exam training. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a financial examiner
Earn a bachelor’s
Finance or accounting.
Join a regulator
Examiner trainee.
Complete training
Classes and exams.
Earn a commission
Agency credential.
Advance
Examiner in charge.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting or economics is typical, plus long-term training.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Long-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | Several years of exam training |
Certifications and licenses
- Commissioned examiner: Federal agency credential.
- CPA: Optional.
- CAMS: Anti-money laundering.
- CRCM: Compliance credential.
Skills to build now
Start with financial analysis, loan review, and banking regulation, and practice integrity and skepticism. Learning the financial examiner vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Examiner Trainee: Learn.
- Commissioned Examiner: Lead areas.
- Examiner in Charge: Lead exams.
- Supervisory Examiner: Lead regions.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Financial Examiner training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
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.
What certifications are available for financial examiners?
Common credentials include Commissioned examiner, CPA, CAMS, and CRCM. Requirements vary by state and employer.
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.