FTMO Rules Explained (2026)
FTMO runs a forex/CFD evaluation with two paths: the long-standing 2-Step Evaluation, and a 1-Step Evaluation launched in February 2026. The two paths use genuinely different drawdown mechanics — see below before you pick one.
Explore the FTMO Challenge
Compare FTMO's current evaluation paths, rules and pricing before choosing an account.
Visit FTMO → Trading from the US? FTMO serves US clients through a separate site — open the US version here. Same challenges, priced in USD, MetaTrader 5 and TradingView. Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.FTMO's plans at a glance
| Plan | Phase | Profit target | Daily loss | Max drawdown | Min. trading days | Consistency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2-Step Evaluation | Phase 1 | 10% | 5% fixed (of starting balance) | Static, 10% | 4 | None |
| Phase 2 | 5% | 5% fixed | Static, 10% | 4 | None | |
| 1-Step Evaluation | Single phase | 10% | 3% fixed | End-of-day trailing, 10% | 0 | Best day ≤ 50% of positive-days profit |
Account sizes on both plans: $10,000 / $25,000 / $50,000 / $100,000 / $200,000.
How FTMO's drawdown works
2-Step: a static floor. The maximum loss limit is 10% of initial capital and does not trail profits. This applies to both evaluation phases and the subsequent 2-Step FTMO Account.
1-Step: an end-of-day trailing floor. At 00:00 CE(S)T, FTMO subtracts 10% of initial capital from the highest preceding midnight balance or initial capital, whichever is higher. On a $100,000 account the floor starts at $90,000; a $105,000 midnight balance raises it to $95,000. It never decreases during that account. FTMO's Trading Objectives and comparison table confirm the distinction, checked 8 October 2026.
Notes & unconfirmed details
- The 1-Step Evaluation's fee is non-refundable, unlike the 2-Step's (which is refunded on a pass).
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Get the free app →Frequently asked questions
Is FTMO's max drawdown static or trailing?
The 2-Step uses a static maximum loss limit of 10% of initial capital in both evaluation phases and on the subsequent FTMO Account. On a $100,000 account that floor stays at $90,000. The 1-Step uses an end-of-day trailing limit: the highest preceding midnight balance, or initial capital if higher, minus 10% of initial capital. A $105,000 midnight balance moves the 1-Step floor to $95,000 permanently.
Does FTMO have a consistency rule?
Not on the 2-Step Evaluation. The 1-Step Evaluation has a Best Day Rule: your single best day of profit can't exceed 50% of the total profit from your positive days.
Is the FTMO evaluation fee refundable?
On the 2-Step Evaluation, yes — it's refunded once you pass. On the 1-Step Evaluation, the fee is non-refundable, per our verified notes.
Explore the FTMO Challenge
Compare FTMO's current evaluation paths, rules and pricing before choosing an account.
Visit FTMO → Trading from the US? FTMO serves US clients through a separate site — open the US version here. Same challenges, priced in USD, MetaTrader 5 and TradingView. Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.FTMO Futures — Global and US
FTMO Futures is a separate product from the CFD Challenges described above. Check its own evaluation rules before choosing an account.
Explore FTMO Futures — Global → Explore FTMO Futures — US → Futures referral code: lvwSFjCqtgHnSODhKApb. Enter referral code at checkout. Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.