The CTEC renewal period is here. CTEC-registered tax preparers (CRTPs) can now renew their registration for the 2026/2027 registration cycle.
The renewal period opened August 1, 2026, and the deadline to renew without a late fee is October 31, 2026.
If you plan to prepare tax returns for a fee during the upcoming tax season, don’t wait until the last minute to make sure your registration is current.
What do CRTPs need to renew?
CRTPs must complete the annual renewal requirements before their registration can be renewed.
1. Complete 20 hours of continuing education
CRTPs must complete 20 hours of continuing education each year through a CTEC-approved education provider.
The required education includes:
- 10 hours of federal tax law
- 3 hours of federal tax law updates
- 2 hours of ethics
- 5 hours of California tax law
CTEC-approved education providers electronically report completed education hours to CTEC.
If your education is not showing in your CTEC account, contact your education provider and make sure they have your correct CTEC ID.
2. Maintain your IRS PTIN
Paid preparers must have a current IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN). Make sure your PTIN is current before completing your CTEC renewal.
3. Maintain your surety bond
CRTPs must maintain the required surety bond and provide current bond information as part of the renewal process.
California law requires tax preparers subject to the Tax Preparers Act to provide evidence of compliance with the bonding requirement.
4. Complete the renewal application and pay the fees
Once your requirements are in place, log in to your CTEC account and complete the renewal process.
For the current renewal cycle, CTEC lists a $33 registration fee plus a $2 processing fee.
Completing your education does not automatically renew your registration. Education providers report your completed hours to CTEC, but you must complete the renewal process yourself.
Don’t wait until October
The October 31 deadline may seem far away, but waiting can create unnecessary problems if your education hours have not yet been reported or your bond or PTIN needs attention.
Start by logging into your CTEC account and checking your renewal requirements. If education is missing, contact your provider as soon as possible.
What happens if you miss the deadline?
January 15 is the final deadline for late renewals. If a CRTP does not renew by January 15, they will have to start the registration process again as a new tax preparer.
That process includes completing the required qualifying education and background checks, along with meeting the other requirements for new CRTP registration.
Don’t wait until January. Renew by October 31 to avoid late fees and a lapse in your registration.
Renew early. Stay ready.
Keeping your CTEC registration current is an important part of maintaining compliance as a California tax preparer.
Complete your continuing education, confirm your PTIN and bond are current, and submit your renewal before the October 31 deadline.
