When do I need to take the RTRP test?
The IRS will continue to issue provisional PTINs until at least April 18, 2012, to prevent disruption of the 2012 filing season.
All paid tax preparers who have provisional PTINs will have until December 31, 2013, to pass the test. Individuals without provisional PTINs seeking to become Registered Tax Return Preparers will be required to pass the competency test before they can obtain a PTIN and begin preparing tax returns for
compensation.
How do I register for the RTRP test & how much does it cost?
Registration for the exam is now open. If you have an online PTIN account, please schedule your appointment through your online PTIN account at www.irs.gov/ptin and select "View Next Steps" from the Main Menu. If you do not have a PTIN account, call 1-855-IRS-EXAM (477-3926). The IRS Fact Sheet: Registered Tax Return Preparer Test Explained details how to create an exam appointment using an online PTIN Account.
The test fee is $116 and must be paid at the time the appointment is scheduled. The test fee is non-refundable and not transferrable. The fee for the test is separate from the PTIN user fee. Currently there is no limit on the number of times preparers can take the test, but they must pay the fee each time. Individuals must pass the test only once.
The IRS has issued a Candidate Information Bulletin with more detailed information on scheduling the exam, exam content and test center procedures.
The computer-based test must be taken at one of the roughly 260 Prometric facilities nationwide (though only 150 or so sites are available now). The test may be taken any time during the year except during the annual black-out period from April 1-15.
Click here to view a list of cities where the test is currently offered. This list is updated weekly and the IRS expects testing will be available within the next two months at all cities listed. To view the exact test center locations on a map, log into your PTIN account and follow the prompts to schedule a test. Otherwise, call 855-IRS-EXAM.