Tax Preparer / Virginia
2026 data Virginia board official source

Virginia Tax Preparer License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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

What the Virginia data shows for Tax Preparers

To practice as a tax preparer in Virginia, the state licensing board requires board-approved training, a passing score on a state-approved exam. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. The regulation sits under Virginia's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Varies".

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

Virginia evaluates out-of-state credentials case-by-case rather than through a published reciprocity list.

Licensing Requirements in Virginia

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 Virginia licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Virginia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Tax Preparer in Virginia? ▼
Virginia's requirements cover, a state exam, and an initial fee of $100. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Tax Preparer in Virginia? ▼
Virginia licenses tax preparers who complete its requirements and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Virginia licensing board.
Can I transfer my Tax Preparer license to Virginia from another state? ▼
There's no published blanket reciprocity rule for tax preparers in Virginia - applications from other states are reviewed individually. Interstate licensing compacts cover many occupations and may still apply. Reach out to the Virginia licensing board for the current process.
Does Virginia require a background check for Tax Preparer licensing? ▼
Yes, Virginia requires a criminal background check as part of the tax preparer licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.

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.