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Tax Preparer License in Maryland

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Tax Preparer license in MD. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$150

Processing Time

2-4 Weeks

Exam Required

IRS AFSP or State Tax Exam

Difficulty Level

Low

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Tax Preparer license in Maryland.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Tax Preparer training program in Maryland.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your MD application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the IRS AFSP or State Tax Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Maryland licensing board and pay the $150 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 2-4 weeks in MD. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

To obtain your Tax Preparer license in Maryland, you must first complete the state-mandated pre-licensing education requirements. Maryland requires all applicants to pass the IRS AFSP or State Tax Exam before submitting their application to the state licensing board. The application process in MD is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail and documentation.

Requirements

Maryland has specific requirements for Tax Preparer licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to prepare and file tax returns for individuals and businesses. A clean background check is mandatory in MD, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The IRS AFSP or State Tax Exam must be passed with a minimum score set by the Maryland board.

Fees & Costs

The initial application fee for a Tax Preparer license in Maryland is approximately $150. This fee covers the processing of your application and initial license issuance. MD also charges an examination fee which is typically paid directly to the testing provider. Late application submissions in Maryland may incur additional penalties of up to $38.

License Fee Calculator — Tax Preparer in Maryland

Base License Fee$150
Estimated Total$150

Renewal Process

Your Tax Preparer license in Maryland must be renewed every 1 year. The renewal fee in MD is $75. Maryland requires completion of continuing education credits before renewal. Submit your renewal application at least 30 days before expiration to avoid late fees. Practicing with an expired license in MD can result in fines and disciplinary action.

License Expiry Calculator — Tax Preparer in MD

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Maryland requires renewal every 1 year.

Additional Information

Maryland takes professional licensing seriously, and the Tax Preparer field is no exception. The state board in MD regularly updates its requirements to align with industry standards and protect public safety. As a licensed Tax Preparer in Maryland, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards and stay current with developments in your field. The MD licensing board provides resources and support to help professionals meet their obligations.

Document Checklist — Tax Preparer

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Maryland Tax Preparer License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) FullAK accepts MD Tax Preparer license via reciprocity agreement.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for MD license holders.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for MD license holders.
Arkansas (AR) NoneAR does not recognize MD Tax Preparer license. Full re-application required.
Colorado (CO) FullCO accepts MD Tax Preparer license via reciprocity agreement.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts MD Tax Preparer license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) NoneCA does not recognize MD Tax Preparer license. Full re-application required.
Florida (FL) FullFL accepts MD Tax Preparer license via reciprocity agreement.

Where to File Locally in Maryland

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Baltimore

500 N Calvert St, Baltimore, MD 21202

(410) 230-6001

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Annapolis

100 State Circle, Annapolis, MD 21401

(410) 974-3901

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Rockville

255 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20850

(240) 777-1000

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Frederick

100 W Patrick St, Frederick, MD 21701

(301) 600-1100

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Silver Spring

8818 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20910

(240) 773-0300

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Official Maryland Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Maryland state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.