Skip to main content
USLG
HomeStatesProfessionsAbout

Financial Planner (CFP) License in Maryland

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Financial Planner (CFP) license in MD. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$400

Processing Time

6-10 Weeks

Exam Required

CFP Board Exam

Difficulty Level

High

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Financial Planner (CFP) license in Maryland.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Financial Planner (CFP) training program in Maryland.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 6 required documents for your MD application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the CFP Board Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Maryland licensing board and pay the $400 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 6-10 weeks in MD. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

Getting licensed as a Financial Planner (CFP) in Maryland starts with meeting the educational prerequisites set by the MD licensing authority. Once you have completed your training, you will need to register for and pass the CFP Board Exam. After passing, submit your application along with all required documents to the Maryland state board.

Requirements

Maryland has specific requirements for Financial Planner (CFP) licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to provide comprehensive financial planning advice. A clean background check is mandatory in MD, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The CFP Board Exam must be passed with a minimum score set by the Maryland board.

Fees & Costs

The initial application fee for a Financial Planner (CFP) license in Maryland is approximately $400. This fee covers the processing of your application and initial license issuance. MD also charges an examination fee which is typically paid directly to the testing provider. Late application submissions in Maryland may incur additional penalties of up to $100.

License Fee Calculator — Financial Planner (CFP) in Maryland

Base License Fee$400
Estimated Total$400

Renewal Process

Maryland requires Financial Planner (CFP) license holders to renew their credentials every 2 years. The renewal fee is $275 in MD. Continuing education requirements must be met before the renewal application is submitted. Maryland offers both online and mail-in renewal options for licensed professionals.

License Expiry Calculator — Financial Planner (CFP) in MD

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Maryland requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

Working as a Financial Planner (CFP) in Maryland offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. MD has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. Maryland also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Financial Planner (CFP) professionals.

Document Checklist — Financial Planner (CFP)

0 of 6 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Maryland Financial Planner (CFP) License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) PartialAK requires additional exam or paperwork for MD license holders.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for MD license holders.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for MD license holders.
Arkansas (AR) PartialAR requires additional exam or paperwork for MD license holders.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for MD license holders.
Delaware (DE) PartialDE requires additional exam or paperwork for MD license holders.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for MD license holders.
Florida (FL) FullFL accepts MD Financial Planner (CFP) license via reciprocity agreement.

Where to File Locally in Maryland

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Baltimore

500 N Calvert St, Baltimore, MD 21202

(410) 230-6001

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Annapolis

100 State Circle, Annapolis, MD 21401

(410) 974-3901

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Rockville

255 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20850

(240) 777-1000

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Frederick

100 W Patrick St, Frederick, MD 21701

(301) 600-1100

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Silver Spring

8818 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20910

(240) 773-0300

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Official Maryland Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Maryland state board. Regulations may change.

Can't find what you're looking for?

Our research team is here to help. Reach out and we'll get you the licensing information you need.

Contact Our Team

Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.