Investment Adviser Registration Requirements

 

The state of Texas provides additional information here.

How to Register as an Investment Advisor in Texas

• FINRA Entitlement Paperwork: To initiate the process of becoming a registered investment advisor in Texas, individuals must first apply to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) to create an account (Entitlement) for their WebCRD/IARD online system (the web application for the registration of RIA and its representatives). FINRA does not regulate or supervise RIAs, but the State of Texas uses FINRA’s WebCRD/IARD system to process applications.
• Form ADV Part 1: Electronically file Form ADV through IARD. Form ADV Part 1 discloses information about the RIA, including its ownership structure, client base, operational practices, any disciplinary incidents involving the advisor or their employees, and affiliations. This form acts as the online portal for submitting additional documentation within the system.
• Form ADV Part 2A: Detail your RIA’s fee structure, services, disciplinary disclosures, and other firm information in Form ADV Part 2A. Form ADV Part 2A is also known as the Firm’s Disclosure Brochure.
• Form ADV Part 2B: Form ADV Part 2B provides information about the advisor, such as their education, employment history, potential conflicts of interest, and any disciplinary actions.
• Minimum Net Capital for most advisers: According to Texas State Code, "TX does not have a minimum net worth/surety bond requirement, but they will require firms to be solvent."
  
  Regulation: "Texas has no minimum capital or bonding requirements. However, insolvency may be a basis for the Texas Securities Commissioner’s denial, revocation, or suspension of an investment adviser’s registration." Source
• Surety Bonds: Not Applicable
• Fees: Submit a $75 fee for the firm's registration through FINRA IARD.