How to Become a Chartered Market Technician

Anyone considering a career as a financial analyst should look into the Chartered Market Technician (CMT) program. The CMT certification is awarded by the Market Technicians Association (MTA) and is granted via a three level testing system. One major benefit of taking the CMT test is that the candidate is granted exemption from the series 86 exam after passing level 2. Alternatively, the CMT program is a way for current financial analysts to gain knowledge and receive official certification in the field of technical analysis.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• MTA membership
• calculator (for all testing levels)
• pencil and ruler (for level 3)
• 2 forms of valid ID, one being a photo ID
• Money for MTA dues and CMT testing fees

1. Join the MTA or become an MTA affiliate. You can take the CMT test as either a member or affiliate, but to receive the CMT designation after passing the tests, you must be a member.

2. Visit the MTA's website (see resources) to get the information you'll need. This includes a required reading list, study materials such as sample quizzes, and testing dates.

3. Make sure you are aware of the testing schedule. Tests are administered twice each year; once in the Spring and once in the Fall. Candidates can only take one test at a time. Also, candidates should be aware that they have five years from the time they register for the CMT program to complete all three tests.

4. After passing the CMT exams, list CMT after your name whenever relevant. This designation is useful in two different ways: it is an aid for those seeking a career in financial analysis and a mark of experience in the field of technical analysis for current financial professionals.

Resources

• Market Technicians Association
• CMT Program

[chris2222]

on 7/2/2009 Can anyone comment on the pass rate for each of the three CMT exams?

[omghow]

on 6/24/2009 Thanks for the information.