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Tax Preparer License in North Dakota

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Tax Preparer license in ND. 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 North Dakota.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Tax Preparer training program in North Dakota.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your ND 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 North Dakota licensing board and pay the $150 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

Getting licensed as a Tax Preparer in North Dakota starts with meeting the educational prerequisites set by the ND licensing authority. Once you have completed your training, you will need to register for and pass the IRS AFSP or State Tax Exam. After passing, submit your application along with all required documents to the North Dakota state board.

Requirements

To qualify for Tax Preparer licensure in North Dakota, candidates must satisfy several prerequisites. ND mandates completion of an approved training program, successful passage of the IRS AFSP or State Tax Exam, and a clean criminal background check. Additional requirements may include proof of residency and professional references as determined by the North Dakota regulatory authority.

Fees & Costs

Obtaining your Tax Preparer license in North Dakota requires a financial investment. The base licensing fee in ND is $150, which includes application processing and credential verification. Exam registration fees are separate and vary by testing center. Budget for approximately $300 total when accounting for all associated costs in North Dakota.

License Fee Calculator — Tax Preparer in North Dakota

Base License Fee$150
Estimated Total$150

Renewal Process

Your Tax Preparer license in North Dakota must be renewed every 1 year. The renewal fee in ND is $75. North Dakota 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 ND can result in fines and disciplinary action.

License Expiry Calculator — Tax Preparer in ND

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

Additional Information

Working as a Tax Preparer in North Dakota offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. ND has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. North Dakota also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Tax Preparer professionals.

Document Checklist — Tax Preparer

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My North Dakota 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) PartialAK requires additional exam or paperwork for ND license holders.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for ND license holders.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize ND Tax Preparer license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts ND Tax Preparer license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for ND license holders.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts ND Tax Preparer license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) NoneCA does not recognize ND Tax Preparer license. Full re-application required.
Florida (FL) FullFL accepts ND Tax Preparer license via reciprocity agreement.

Where to File Locally in North Dakota

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

Bismarck

600 E Boulevard Ave, Bismarck, ND 58505

(701) 328-9660

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Fargo

200 3rd St N, Fargo, ND 58102

(701) 241-1310

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Grand Forks

255 N 4th St, Grand Forks, ND 58203

(701) 746-2600

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Minot

515 2nd Ave SW, Minot, ND 58701

(701) 857-4750

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Mandan

205 2nd Ave NW, Mandan, ND 58554

(701) 667-3200

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Official North Dakota Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the North Dakota 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.