flag-icon
Earn CE
cross-icon
searchBarIcon
hamburger
cross-icon

How do I become a cDROP® professional?

Candidates become a cDROP® professional by successfully studying DROP: The Definitive Study Guide and subsequently passing a 110 multiple-choice exam with a score of 75% or higher.

The exam covers the following topics:

The cDROP® credentialing program is straight-forward and convenient. Our self-study program is designed for busy professionals who want to take their practice to the next level, without the time-commitment typical of other certification programs. Our goal is to not only get you certified, but also to help build your business. The cost of the certification program is $1,495 and includes the following:

  • Access to business-builder materials: slide presentations, fact finder sheets, sales tips, best practice ideas, advertising material, and due diligence on DROP throughout the country
  • Study materials for the exam: Hard Copy $1,495; PDF $1,395
  • Promotion of the brand and certification in select areas. Our referral service offers the ability to be matched with targeted prospects who respond to our advertising campaigns
  • Inclusion in our "Find a cDROP® Advisor" directory.
  • One year of credentialed membership and the rights to use the mark
  • Your commitment to this certification program will unlock all these benefits

Fundamental Aspects of DROP10%

Pension Concepts10%

Deferred Comp/ 45712%

DROP Distribution Rules12%

Alternatives to DROP12%

Time Value of Money Concepts8%

Behavioral Finance5%

Health Insurance/Life Insurance8%

Estate Planning8%

Social Security5%

Case Study10%

Are there prerequisites for taking the cDROP® certification program?

Candidates must possess a Series 7, Series 6, Series 65, or any applicable recognized license or certification in the industry to manage money.

How long does it take to obtain the designation?

The program is a self-study learning experience. The student has the responsibility for their own instruction and pace of the program. Participants can expect to complete the course material and sit for the exam within one month of sign-up, on average. There is no time limit for completing the exam.

What are the examination fees and retake fees?

The exam fee is included in the price of the certification program. If you do not pass the exam on the first try, candidates can retake it for a second time, free of charge. Each subsequent retake will incur a $100 fee. There is no limit on the number of times you can retake the exam and there is no waiting period between taking exams.

How do I schedule the exam?

Candidates will set up an account at our website www.dropinstitute.com when they register for the course. The exam is administered online in the comfort of your own home or office and requires an attestation by a disinterested third-party.

Is there a refund if I decide I am no longer interested in completing the course?

Within 14 days of committing to the program, you can receive a full refund if you are not satisfied. You must return course materials if you did not opt for a PDF version. No refund will be given once you take the exam.

Are there annual fees and Continuing Education (CE) requirements?

Your Certified DROP Consultant(cDROP®) designation is valid for one year from your date of certification. Following your first year of certification, there is an annual renewal fee of $195. Additionally, certificate holders are required to have 15 hours of continuing education (CE) in DROP-related material every 2 years after initial certification. The continuing education material will be provided to you by the DROP Institute® and is included in the price of the renewal fee.

Signing up to become cDROP® certified is as easy as 1,2,3
  • Register as a Financial Advisor on the homepage
  • Select “cDROP Certification” in your member dashboard
  • Complete the registration, submit payment , study and pass the exam.