How to Register with CTEC for the First Time
If you plan to prepare tax returns for a fee in California and are not an attorney licensed by the State Bar of California, a CPA or accounting firm verified by the California Board of Accountancy, or an enrolled agent, you are required by state law to register with CTEC.
What to Know (and Why It Matters)
Registering with CTEC isn’t optional — it’s a legal requirement for non-exempt tax preparers in California.
CTEC’s combination of education, fingerprinting, bonding, and registration is designed to help ensure that paid tax preparers meet minimum standards of competence, professionalism, and accountability.
Taking the time to follow all steps carefully — from background check to education to final registration — ensures you’re fully compliant, legally authorized, and ready to serve clients with confidence.
The following is a step‑by‑step guide to help you through your initial registration with CTEC.
- Pass a criminal background check and submit fingerprint images.
- Complete a 60‑hour qualifying education course from a CTEC‑approved education provider.
- Obtain a $5,000 tax preparer surety bond.
- Apply for and obtain an IRS Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN).
- Complete the new preparer application.
- Pay CTEC’s application and registration fees.
Please note: This process can take several weeks. New applicants are not permitted to prepare tax returns for clients until their CTEC registration is complete and approved.
Step 1: Submit the Online Application
- Visit CTEC’s New Preparer Application page and begin the application. You can also download our digital guidebook for new applicants here.
- Provide all required personal information — your full Social Security number, name (exactly as on your Social Security card), address, contact info, and email. Be sure the email is current and correct.
- Create a new user ID and password.
- Complete the background questionnaire. The application requires you to disclose any criminal history, even if it’s been dismissed or expunged.
- Pay the non‑refundable application fee: $100, plus a $2 processing fee to submit the application.
⚠️ Note: Completing the 60-hour course before submitting the application is allowed, but passing the required background check and fingerprinting (Live Scan) is mandatory before you can receive final approval.
Step 2: Complete Live Scan & Background Check
After submitting the application, you must complete a fingerprinting procedure (Live Scan) and background check.
- Download and complete the Live Scan form from your CTEC account.
- Take the form to a Live Scan facility. The facility will electronically send your fingerprint data to the California Department of Justice (DOJ).
- Keep the copy of the completed form for your records — do not mail it to CTEC.
Once the DOJ sends the results, CTEC will review the background information. This review process typically takes 2 to 8 weeks.
If additional information is needed, CTEC may contact you via email. Failure to respond could lead to a proposed denial.
Step 3: Finalize Registration and Pay Fees
After passing the background check and completing all prerequisites (education, bond, PTIN), you’ll receive an email approval from CTEC. You can then:
- Log into your CTEC account, finish the registration process, and pay required registration and processing fees.
- Once payment is complete and the application is processed, you become a CTEC-registered tax preparer (CRTP) — which means you are eligible to legally prepare tax returns for a fee in California.
Important Deadlines & Validity
- The registration cycle for new preparers begins November 1 each year.
- You must register within 18 months of completing your 60‑hour QE course. If you miss that window, you’ll need to retake the course.
Who Needs to Register (and Who Doesn’t)
Registration with CTEC is required for any non-exempt individual who prepares tax returns for a fee in California. Exemptions include:
- Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) and accounting firms verified with the California Board of Accountancy
- Attorneys admitted to the California State Bar
- IRS Enrolled Agents (EAs)
If you fall under one of those exempt categories, you don’t need to register with CTEC.
