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Tax Preparer License in Rhode Island

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Tax Preparer license in RI. 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 Rhode Island.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Tax Preparer training program in Rhode Island.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your RI 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 Rhode Island licensing board and pay the $150 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

Getting licensed as a Tax Preparer in Rhode Island starts with meeting the educational prerequisites set by the RI 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 Rhode Island state board.

Requirements

Before applying for a Tax Preparer license in Rhode Island, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. RI requires candidates to have completed the necessary educational coursework and accumulated the required training hours. All applicants must pass a comprehensive background check and provide proof of identity. Successfully passing the IRS AFSP or State Tax Exam is a non-negotiable requirement in Rhode Island.

Fees & Costs

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

License Fee Calculator — Tax Preparer in Rhode Island

Base License Fee$150
Estimated Total$150

Renewal Process

Rhode Island requires Tax Preparer license holders to renew their credentials every 1 year. The renewal fee is $75 in RI. Continuing education requirements must be met before the renewal application is submitted. Rhode Island offers both online and mail-in renewal options for licensed professionals.

License Expiry Calculator — Tax Preparer in RI

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

Additional Information

Working as a Tax Preparer in Rhode Island offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. RI 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. Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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 RI Tax Preparer license via reciprocity agreement.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for RI license holders.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize RI Tax Preparer license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) NoneAR does not recognize RI Tax Preparer license. Full re-application required.
Colorado (CO) FullCO accepts RI Tax Preparer license via reciprocity agreement.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts RI Tax Preparer license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for RI license holders.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for RI license holders.

Where to File Locally in Rhode Island

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

Providence

1511 Pontiac Ave, Cranston, RI 02920

(401) 462-9500

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Warwick

3275 Post Rd, Warwick, RI 02886

(401) 738-2000

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Cranston

869 Park Ave, Cranston, RI 02910

(401) 461-1000

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Pawtucket

137 Roosevelt Ave, Pawtucket, RI 02860

(401) 728-0500

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Newport

43 Broadway, Newport, RI 02840

(401) 845-5300

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Official Rhode Island Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Rhode Island 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.