A tax preparer certificate prepares a student with knowledge and practical experience for individual income tax preparation and receive the qualifying education required by the California Tax Education Council (CTEC) to become a California Registered Tax Preparer (CRTP). California law requires anyone who prepares (or assists with) tax returns for a fee, and is not an attorney, certified public accountant (CPA) or enrolled agent (EA), to register as a tax preparer with CTEC. All CTEC Registered Tax Preparers (CRTP) must: • First complete qualifying tax education from a CTEC-Approved Provider • Obtain a PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number) from the IRS • Purchase a $5,000 tax preparer bond • Register with CTEC within 18 months from the completion date on the certificate of completion • CTEC requires a Registration Fee (amount varies by year) Upon completion of this certificate program, a student would fulfill the education requirement to become a CRTP. Entry-level employment opportunities include tax specialist and tax practitioner. Growth potentials include management-level positions and selfemployment opportunities.