HowToGetLicensed

Tax Preparer License: California vs New York

Thinking about getting your tax preparer license? Here's how California and New York compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.

Requirement California New York
Education Hours 60 hours 0 hours
Exam CTEC Registered Tax Preparer (CRTP) New York Tax Return Preparer Registration
Application Fee $31 $31
Exam Fee $0 $0
Total Estimated Cost $700 - $1,700 $500 - $1,100
Renewal Period Every 1 year Every 1 year
CE Hours 20 hours 16 hours
Renewal Fee $33 $31

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: New York is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $500-$1,100 compared to $700-$1,700.

Fewer education hours: New York requires 0 hours of pre-license education, compared to 60 hours in California.

Full State Guides

Compare tax preparer requirements across all 50 states →