Tax Preparer / Tennessee
2026 data Tennessee board official source

Tennessee Tax Preparer License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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Prepares tax returns. Some states require registration beyond federal PTIN.

What the Tennessee data shows for Tax Preparers

Tennessee's path to tax preparer licensure runs through board-approved instruction and a passing score on a state-approved exam, plus a criminal history screening. Tennessee folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Varies".

Upfront cost is $100 on a 2-year cycle. Continuing education is not a listed requirement for this profession in Tennessee, so the annualized maintenance burden is lower than in states that mandate ongoing hours.

There's no published reciprocity list here - Tennessee reviews out-of-state credentials individually.

Licensing Requirements in Tennessee

Education / Training Hours
Varies
Not specified
Exam Requirement
Required
Initial License Fee
$100
Renewal Fee
N/A
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required

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Compare all states for Tax Preparer All Tennessee licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Tennessee licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Tax Preparer in Tennessee? ▼
Tennessee requires, passing an exam, and an initial fee of $100. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Tax Preparer in Tennessee? ▼
Certification as a tax preparer in Tennessee means clearing the state's checklist, and a passing exam score. The Tennessee licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Tax Preparer license to Tennessee from another state? ▼
There's no published blanket reciprocity rule for tax preparers in Tennessee - applications from other states are reviewed individually. Interstate licensing compacts cover many occupations and may still apply. Reach out to the Tennessee licensing board for the current process.
Does Tennessee require a background check for Tax Preparer licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the tax preparer licensing process in Tennessee. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.