United States
Hong KongWhen can you start using the CFP marks?
Only once certification is granted, after every requirement is complete. Passing the exam does not permit use of the marks, and using them beforehand is a misrepresentation.
Not when you pass. When certification is granted, which is a different moment.
The sequence
Coursework, exam, degree, experience, ethics declaration and background check. Certification is granted once all of them are complete and approved.
A candidate who has passed the exam but is still accumulating experience hours is not certified and may not use the marks.
What you can say in the meantime
Accurate statements of fact are fine. "Passed the CFP® Certification Examination" is true and is not use of the marks as a credential.
So is describing yourself as working towards certification, or as a candidate for CFP certification where that is accurate under CFP Board's guidance on candidate status.
What you cannot do is put the marks after your name.
Using the marks before certification tells clients you hold something you do not. CFP Board takes it seriously, and it can affect the fitness determination for someone still working through the requirements.
How to write them once you can
- As an adjective following your name: Jane Smith, CFP®.
- With the certification mark symbol on first or most prominent use.
- Never as a noun - "a CFP® professional", not "a CFP".
- Never for a firm. A firm may employ CFP® professionals; it is not a CFP® firm.
- Never in a firm name, domain name or email address.
Where it applies
Everywhere. Email signature, LinkedIn, business cards, the firm website, advertisements, presentation slides, social media.
LinkedIn is where most misuse is found, because headlines get written quickly and rarely revisited.
And when it lapses
Stop immediately. Certification that has lapsed for non-payment or unmet continuing education means the marks come off every profile and signature that day.
Continuing to use them while lapsed converts an administrative oversight into a conduct matter, which is a much worse position.
CFP® is a registered mark of Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. We are not affiliated with, or endorsed by, CFP Board. Confirm details against cfp.net, which is the authority.
Common questions
Can you use the CFP marks after passing the exam?
No. Certification is granted only once every requirement is complete, and passing the exam alone does not permit use of the marks.
What can you say while working towards it?
Accurate statements of fact - that you passed the CFP Certification Examination, or that you are working towards certification. What you cannot do is put the marks after your name.
How must the marks be written?
As an adjective following your name, with the certification mark symbol on first use, never as a noun, never for a firm, and never in a firm or domain name.
Where do the rules apply?
Everywhere - email signatures, LinkedIn, business cards, websites, advertisements, slides and social media. LinkedIn is where most misuse is found.
What if certification lapses?
Remove the marks immediately from every profile and signature. Continuing to use them while lapsed turns an administrative oversight into a conduct matter.