FIFA is pushing for more transparency and structure in football’s transfer system, and part of that effort includes the regular release of data around the FIFA football agent licensing process. The latest report, covering activity from 1 January to 5 December 2024, offers a detailed look at what it really takes to become a licensed agent. From pass rates in the FIFA agent exam to gender distribution and compliance enforcement, the numbers reveal a lot about the evolving landscape.
Here’s what aspiring FIFA agents and industry professionals need to know:
FIFA opened two application windows in 2024 for individuals interested in obtaining a football agent license. The first window for the FIFA agent exam ran from 9 January to 31 March, with the exam held on 22 May in 159 member associations. The second window ran from 19 August to 4 October, with the exam on 20 November in 146 member associations.
Across both windows, FIFA received 19,827 applications. However, only 10,887 people ended up sitting for the FIFA agent exam. The pass rate stood at 40.4 percent, a sign that while more candidates are engaging with the process, the exam remains a serious challenge.
The exam itself includes 20 multiple-choice questions. Candidates are tested on topics such as the FIFA Football Agent Regulations (FFAR), the Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players (RSTP), compensation mechanisms, and key legal considerations in transfers and player representation. To pass, a candidate needs at least 15 correct answers.
As of 5 December 2024, a total of 7,558 individuals held valid licenses. The average age of licensed agents was 42 years. Men made up 95 percent of the group, while women accounted for just 5 percent. Around 64.9 percent of these agents were authorized to represent minors. These numbers show the growing professionalization of the space, but they also highlight an urgent need to address the gender imbalance.
FIFA isn’t only issuing licenses; it’s also watching closely for violations. In 2024, 1,606 investigations were launched into eligibility concerns. Around 17 percent of these led to rejections. Some of the reasons included missing the application deadline (182 cases), conflicts of interest such as working for clubs or FIFA bodies (78 cases), prior unlicensed activity (12 cases), and criminal convictions (2 cases). Additionally, 973 people were disqualified for breaching exam rules like non-payment of fees or misconduct during the exam.
In some countries, including England, the USA, India, Belgium, Israel, and Indonesia, FIFA blocked individuals from taking the exam entirely due to past violations. This shows the global nature of compliance and how seriously the rules are now being enforced.
Passing the FIFA agent exam is only the beginning. From 1 October 2024, a new licensing year began, and FIFA monitored how many agents were meeting their post-exam obligations. A total of 2,616 agents had their licenses provisionally suspended. Of that number, 1,777 had not paid their renewal fees, while 1,387 failed to complete their continuous professional development (CPD). Only 1,825 agents were able to fix their issues and have their licenses reinstated. Another 406 licenses were permanently withdrawn. Agents who don’t resolve their issues within 60 days must reapply from scratch.
FIFA also launched 21 disciplinary investigations into licensed agents. Five cases are still ongoing, three of which are under appeal at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Seven agents were provisionally suspended due to reasons such as prior unlicensed practice, criminal history, and conflicts of interest. Eleven cases were closed.
One notable case involved an agent who challenged FIFA’s decision to reject his license due to a conviction for violence. Although the conviction was under appeal, the CAS confirmed that this still counted as a disqualifying offense. This sets a strong precedent for how seriously eligibility rules are taken.
The bottom line is this. Getting licensed is a major achievement, but it’s not the final step. Compliance, education, and ethical behavior are now essential parts of an agent’s career. At Ball Business, we encourage all future agents to take the process seriously. Prepare well. Stay compliant. Build your credibility. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing your status, professionalism is what truly sets you apart.
Becoming a Licensed Football Agent in 2025
For those targeting the 2025 licensing cycle, please note that the application window has already closed. FIFA has confirmed that there will be just one application window this year, with the next opening in 2026. If you or someone you know has applied already, feel free to reach out to Ball Business directly. You can also explore our dedicated course designed to help you succeed in the exam.
