How to Apply for an RE5 Certificate: Your Essential Guide to Becoming a Licensed Financial Representative
Learn how to register and prepare for the RE5 exam in South Africa. Step-by-step process for applying, studying wisely, RE5 Certificate.
What Is the RE5 Certificate and Who Needs It
RE5 is the Regulatory Examination for Representatives, mandated by the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA). Passing the exam earns you an RE5 certificate, often called a FAIS licence. It is required if you provide financial advice or intermediary services to clients. This includes roles like:
- Telesales agents
- Broker assistants
- Insurance claims or underwriting support staff
- Financial product representatives
This certificate confirms your knowledge of financial legislation, ethics, and standards required under the FAIS Act.
Why Your RE5 Certificate Matters to Your Career
Without the RE5 licence, you cannot legally render financial advice or sell financial products. Having the certificate means:
- Formal recognition of competence in financial services
- Access to entry-level roles in insurance, banking, and advisory firms
- Compliance with South African financial regulations
- Credibility with employers and clients
RE5 is not a qualification—it’s a mandatory licensing exam, often required even before starting work.
Who Needs to Write the RE5 Exam
According to FSCA rules, the RE5 exam is required for all Representatives, except those rendering limited services only, such as friendly society benefits or Tier 2 products. This means:
- Any person giving financial advice or selling financial products must pass RE5
- RE1 is a separate exam for Key Individuals (senior managers) and is not needed for regular representatives
Step‑by‑Step: How to Apply for Your RE5 Certificate
1. Register with the Official Exam Authority
The only entity authorised to administer the RE5 exam is Moonstone (appointed by the FSCA). To register you will need:
- Your South African ID number or passport number
- Relevant Financial Services Provider (FSP) number, if employed
- Personal contact information and professional details.
- APPLICATION PROCESS
- RE5 Certificate
2. Choose an Exam Date and Venue
During registration, you will receive confirmation of your exam date, time, and venue. Moonstone conducts RE5 exams across approved centres national wide.
Exams typically involve 50 multiple-choice questions. You must answer at least 33 correctly (66%) to pass.
There is a standard fee for each RE5 exam attempt. The exact cost varies, so check the current rate when booking. Be prepared to pay before your booking is confirmed.
4. Receive Your Exam Confirmation and Attend
Once booked, you’ll receive an email with full instructions. On exam day, arrive early, bring your valid ID, and follow the invigilator’s instructions carefully.
After You Write the Exam: Getting Your Certificate
When your exam paper is marked, results are sent to the FSCA for cross-check and approval. Typically:
- Results are issued within 20 working days
- You’ll receive your RE5 certificate via email as a PDF attachment
Keep your certificate safe for job applications, licensing, and compliance requirements.
How to Prepare Smartly for RE5
Study with Official Content
- Use up-to-date RE5 study materials aligned with the latest FAIS Act
- Work through mock exams and past papers to familiarise yourself with question formats
Attend Workshops or Webinars (Optional)
Some providers offer in-person or virtual RE5 preparation sessions. These can provide structure and guidance, especially for first-time test-takers—though they are not mandatory.
Practice Time Management
The exam allows limited time. Practice pacing yourself so you can thoughtfully consider each question but also complete the test within the cutoff.
Focus on Legislation and Practical Scenarios
Expect questions on ethical conduct, the FAIS Act, types of financial products, conflict of interest, and representative obligations.
Real Insights from People Who Took RE5
Reddit users highlight what makes the RE5 exam tough:
“It’s not difficult, it’s just extremely boring content!”
“Read the questions carefully, standard multiple-choice tricks apply.”
Another shared:
“While RE5 can be a nightmare, once you grasp the content, it becomes easier with effort.”
These insights confirm that preparation and attention to detail are key—they may not help with excitement—but they do help you pass.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | How to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Using outdated study material | Always use current materials—FAIS content changes over time |
| Booking early but failing to prepare | Start studying immediately after booking |
| Misreading questions under time pressure | Practice mock tests to develop calm and precision |
| Failing to register officially | Only trust Moonstone for registration, not informal courses |
What Happens After You Pass
Once you’ve earned your RE5 certificate, you can:
- Legally provide financial advice or intermediary services under the supervision of an FSP
- Begin or continue working in roles requiring financial competence
- Move on to RE1 or pursue accredited qualifications if needed
If you fail initially, you can rebook and retake—but avoid repeated failure by prepping thoroughly beforehand.
Tips to Maximise Your Chances of Success
- Study regularly and review all chapters in the official topics list
- Take multiple mock exams until your accuracy reaches 80% or higher
- Rest well before the exam; fatigue leads to avoidable errors
- Focus on comprehension, not memorisation—understand why the correct answers are correct
- Respond to your confirmation email with attention and arrive early to exam centre
Your RE5 Application Checklist
- South African ID or passport number
- FSP number (if applicable)
- Updated personal and contact details
- Payment for exam fee
- Study materials and/or mock exams lined up
- Exam date and venue confirmation received
- ID document on exam day
- Calm mindset and understanding of FAIS principles
Final Thoughts: The RE5 Certificate as Your Launchpad
The RE5 certificate is your legal licence to work in the regulated financial services industry. It proves you understand the rules, ethics, and responsibilities that come with advising clients or selling financial products.
If you’re committed to entering the world of insurance, advisory, claims, or brokerage support, then passing the RE5 exam is a vital first step. Prepare smartly, stay focused, and approach it with professionalism—just like Sipho is doing on that Monday morning.
Your certificate could open the next door in your career.
