CFP Board Enhances Continuing Education Requirements: New Ethics Module Effective 2026

CFP® Board Updates

In a move that reflects its ongoing commitment to public trust and professional accountability, the CFP Board recently announced updates to its Continuing Education (CE) requirements, including the launch of a new ethics module that will take effect in 2026.

These changes are designed to ensure that CFP® professionals stay aligned with evolving expectations around fiduciary conduct, regulatory awareness, and ethical decision-making — particularly as the advisory landscape grows more complex.

What’s Changing?

Starting January 1, 2026:

  • All certificants will be required to complete a standalone ethics CE module, focused on case-based applications of the Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct.
  • This module will be distinct from the existing 2-hour ethics CE requirement, though it may be integrated by approved providers into a bundled ethics curriculum.
  • The new content will include interactive learning and scenario-based training emphasizing professionalism, disclosure, and real-world ethical judgment.

The CFP Board is currently working with CE sponsors to ensure updated course content is approved and available in time for 2026 renewals.

Why This Matters

Ethics has always been a cornerstone of the CFP® mark — but recent developments in technology, marketing practices, and product complexity have made ethical training even more critical.

For CFP® professionals, this new requirement is not just a box to check. It’s an opportunity to:

  • Stay fluent in real-world ethical dilemmas faced by peers across the profession
  • Sharpen your ability to apply the Standards of Conduct in nuanced, practical situations
  • Reinforce your role as a trusted advisor in a crowded, evolving marketplace

What You Can Do Now

  • Review your CE calendar for 2025 and 2026 and stay alert to approved modules from qualified sponsors
  • If you're a firm leader or CE coordinator, prepare staff in advance by flagging this change in your professional development communications
  • Consider how you might integrate this topic into internal trainings or client communications to highlight your ongoing commitment to high standards

Bottom Line

The CFP Board’s new ethics CE requirement is a timely reminder that certification is more than a credential — it’s a lifelong standard. By staying ahead of this change, CFP® professionals can demonstrate leadership, integrity, and a proactive commitment to doing what’s right — not just what’s required.

Sources:

  1. CFP Board News Release – CFP Board to Introduce Ethics Module for CE
    https://www.cfp.net/news/2025/07/cfp-board-introduces-ethics-module-2026
  2. CE Sponsor Portal – Continuing Education Standards Overview (2025 Update)
    https://www.cfp.net/for-educators/ce-sponsors/ce-standards
  3. ThinkAdvisor – New CFP Board Training Requirement Targets Practical Ethics
    https://www.thinkadvisor.com/2025/07/new-cfp-ethics-ce-rule
  4. CFP Board Code of Ethics and Standards of Conduct Summary (PDF)
    https://www.cfp.net/docs/default-source/for-cfp-professionals/cfp-board-standards.pdf
Posted in CFP Board Updates

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