2025 CTEC Renewal Timeline at a Glance
August 1, 2025: CTEC Renewal Opens
This is the first day you can log in to your CTEC account and start the renewal process for the upcoming year.
October 31, 2025: Renewal Deadline
All CTEC Registered Tax Preparers (CRTPs) must complete their continuing education (CE), submit proof of a current bond and IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN), complete the renewal application, and pay all fees by this date to avoid a lapse in registration and late fees.
November 1, 2025 – January 15, 2026: Late Renewal Window
If you miss the October 31 deadline, you can still renew—but you’ll need to pay a late fee and cannot legally prepare tax returns for a fee until your registration is current.
January 15, 2026: Final Late Renewal Deadline
If you haven’t renewed by this date, your CTEC registration will expire. You’ll need to retake the 60-hour qualifying education course and register as a new CRTP. This includes submitting a live scan and passing a background check, in addition to paying an initial application fee, as well as registration and processing fees.
What You Need to Do
- Complete 20 hours of continuing education from a CTEC-approved education provider before you attempt to renew.
- Check that your education provider has reported your hours to CTEC (and provide your CTEC ID!).
- Maintain a current IRS PTIN and Surety Bond.
- Renew online through your CTEC account at CTEC.org.
- Pay all required fees before the deadline.
Quick Tips for a Smooth Renewal
- Don’t wait until the last minute. Education providers have ten days from the date the course was completed to report hours to CTEC during the renewal cycle.
- Verify your provider’s CTEC approval before enrolling in CE courses.
- Keep your CTEC ID handy for all education and renewal communications.
Step-by-Step Renewal Process
For a detailed walkthrough of the CTEC renewal process, including screenshots of each step from login to payment confirmation, download our CTEC Registration Renewal Process PDF. This guide will help you navigate the system smoothly and ensure you don’t miss any required steps.
