CFA Designation After Retirement: Requirements to Maintain Your CFA Charter

Retirement may raise questions for CFA charterholders about whether they can continue using the CFA designation and what they need to do to maintain their membership. Understanding the applicable membership option, eligibility conditions and associated benefits can help retired members plan their next steps. 

PW supports CFA preparation through its CFA Online Batches 2026-27. It includes live classes, DPPs, practice tests and preparation support. Professional Leave, however, applies to eligible retired members and is separate from CFA examination preparation.

What Are the Requirements to Maintain the CFA Designation After Retirement?

Retired CFA members who want to maintain their CFA designation can apply for Professional Leave through the CFA Institute membership renewal portal. The request must meet the applicable eligibility conditions and be approved by CFA Institute.

The key requirement is that the member is retired and seeks Professional Leave through the designated membership process. Members should complete the application through the official CFA Institute portal to have their status considered.

What Is the CFA Professional Leave Membership Fee?

Members who request and qualify for Professional Leave receive a reduced CFA Institute membership rate of USD 100.

This amount applies to the CFA Institute membership rate. CFA Society dues may vary depending on the local CFA Society, so the total membership-related cost may differ by location.

What Benefits Do CFA Charterholders Retain After Retirement?

Approved members on Professional Leave retain full Charterholder Membership benefits with CFA Institute. These include access to:

• CFA Institute resources

• Professional learning materials

• The global network of investment professionals

This allows eligible retired members to continue accessing the stated membership benefits while holding Professional Leave status.

How to Apply for CFA Professional Leave?

Retired members who want to maintain their CFA designation can apply for Professional Leave through the CFA Institute membership renewal portal.

The application is available through the CFA Institute Professional Leave page. Members should complete the application and follow the process provided by CFA Institute. Professional Leave benefits and the reduced membership rate apply to members whose requests are approved.

Professional Leave is a membership provision for retired CFA members and is separate from examination preparation. 

Candidates preparing for the CFA Program can consider PW CFA Online courses for structured exam preparation. The batches include live classes, DPPs, practice tests, faculty guidance and preparation support for the CFA examination.