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Tax Preparer License in Tennessee

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Tax Preparer license in TN. 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 Tennessee.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Tax Preparer training program in Tennessee.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your TN 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 Tennessee licensing board and pay the $150 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

If you are looking to start your career as a Tax Preparer in Tennessee, the licensing process begins with education. TN mandates specific coursework before you can sit for the IRS AFSP or State Tax Exam. Upon passing the exam, you can proceed to file your application with the appropriate Tennessee regulatory board.

Requirements

To qualify for Tax Preparer licensure in Tennessee, candidates must satisfy several prerequisites. TN 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 Tennessee regulatory authority.

Fees & Costs

Obtaining your Tax Preparer license in Tennessee requires a financial investment. The base licensing fee in TN 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 Tennessee.

License Fee Calculator — Tax Preparer in Tennessee

Base License Fee$150
Estimated Total$150

Renewal Process

License renewal for Tax Preparer professionals in Tennessee occurs on a 1-year cycle. TN charges a renewal fee of $75 and mandates continuing education as part of the renewal process. It is recommended to begin the renewal process in Tennessee at least 60 days before your license expires to ensure uninterrupted practice.

License Expiry Calculator — Tax Preparer in TN

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

Additional Information

Tennessee takes professional licensing seriously, and the Tax Preparer field is no exception. The state board in TN regularly updates its requirements to align with industry standards and protect public safety. As a licensed Tax Preparer in Tennessee, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards and stay current with developments in your field. The TN 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 Tennessee 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) NoneAK does not recognize TN Tax Preparer license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize TN Tax Preparer license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize TN Tax Preparer license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) PartialAR requires additional exam or paperwork for TN license holders.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize TN Tax Preparer license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) NoneDE does not recognize TN Tax Preparer license. Full re-application required.
California (CA) FullCA accepts TN Tax Preparer license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for TN license holders.

Where to File Locally in Tennessee

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

Nashville

500 James Robertson Pkwy, Nashville, TN 37243

(615) 741-3449

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

Memphis

125 N Main St, Memphis, TN 38103

(901) 576-6000

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

Knoxville

400 Main St, Knoxville, TN 37902

(865) 215-2000

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

Chattanooga

101 E 11th St, Chattanooga, TN 37402

(423) 643-7800

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

Clarksville

1 Public Square, Clarksville, TN 37040

(931) 645-7444

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

Official Tennessee Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Tennessee 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.