To be a stock broker, start by getting a degree in economics, finance, mathematics, accounting, or business management and create your own investment portfolio if you're over 18. Decide whether you want to be a full service, discount, or bank broker, and research firms that you'd be interested in working at. In order to sit for the necessary exams to become a licensed stock broker, an individual must be sponsored by a FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority) registered firm or other regulatory authority. Generally, this means getting hired by a brokerage firm or investment bank before getting licensed. Students who want to become stockbrokers might also consider majoring in business, finance, economics, or accounting to gain an understanding of what drives the economy and the forces that influence and determine the price of securities. Those who major in accounting and become CPAs may gain a leg up over their peers. Testing and Background Checks