One of the most common questions candidates ask is: Should I do RE5 or RE1?
The answer depends on the role you want in the financial services sector. RE5 and RE1 are not the same exam, and they are not interchangeable. Naturally, because why would compliance make anything simple enough to fit on a fridge magnet?
What Is RE5?
RE5 is the regulatory exam commonly linked to Representatives. It is usually relevant for candidates who want to work in roles where they may render financial services on behalf of an authorised FSP.
RE5 may be relevant for roles such as:
- Financial Advisor
- FAIS Representative
- Insurance Sales Consultant
- Broker Support Consultant
- Client Service Consultant
- Banking or financial services sales roles
- Advisory support roles
What Is RE1?
RE1 is the regulatory exam commonly linked to Key Individuals and oversight-related responsibilities within an FSP.
RE1 may be relevant for roles such as:
- Key Individual
- FSP Manager
- Compliance Support
- Operations Manager in a financial services business
- Supervision or oversight-related roles
- Senior financial services management roles
Is RE1 Better Than RE5?
No. RE1 is not “better” than RE5. RE5 and RE1 serve different purposes.
RE5 usually supports Representative-related career paths. RE1 usually supports Key Individual or oversight-related paths. The right exam depends on the job you want and the role requirements of the employer.
Do You Need Both RE5 and RE1?
Some candidates complete both RE5 and RE1, especially if they want broader career options in the FAIS sector.
For example, a person may start in a Representative role with RE5 and later move toward management, supervision or Key Individual responsibilities where RE1 becomes relevant.
Can RE5 Help You Get a Job?
RE5 can strengthen your profile for many FAIS and financial services roles. It may be required for certain Representative positions and can show employers that you understand important regulatory concepts.
It does not guarantee employment, because employers still consider experience, communication, qualifications, product exposure and fit. Still, having RE5 can make you more competitive for suitable roles.
Can RE1 Help You Move Into Management?
RE1 can support candidates aiming for Key Individual, management, oversight or compliance-related roles.
RE1 alone does not automatically qualify you for every senior role. Employers may still require experience, management ability, product knowledge and approval-related checks.
How to Decide Which Exam to Do
Use your career goal as the starting point.
- If you want to become a Representative or Financial Advisor, RE5 is usually the better starting point.
- If you want to move into Key Individual or oversight roles, RE1 may be required.
- If you want broader FAIS career options, completing both may be useful.
- If you are unsure, speak to a training or recruitment advisor before booking an exam.
RE5 and RE1 Training Support
RE5 Online offers structured exam preparation for both RE5 and RE1. Training options may include live webinars, online classes, mock exams, study resources and guided preparation.
Qualifying RE5 Online webinars and workshops include a 100% Pass Guarantee, subject to the applicable terms and conditions. This helps candidates prepare with a structured study plan rather than attempting the exam with panic, screenshots and optimism.
Register for FAIS Career Opportunities
After completing RE5 or RE1, or while preparing for the exam, candidates can create a profile on RE5 Recruitment.
Your profile helps employers understand your experience, qualifications, RE status and preferred roles.
Create your candidate profile or view career support services.
