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How to become a tax preparer in Maryland
Do you need a license to prepare taxes in Maryland? Yes. You must pass the Maryland tax preparer exam and register with the State Board of Individual Tax Preparers before you take a paying client.
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What Maryland requires
Maryland is one of five states with its own tax preparer rules. If you prepare federal or Maryland returns for Marylanders for a fee, you must register with the State Board of Individual Tax Preparers before you prepare or advertise. For what every state requires, see our guide on how to become a tax preparer.
To register, you need a current IRS PTIN and a score of 70% or higher on the Maryland Individual Tax Preparers exam. Registration lasts two years. To renew, you complete 16 hours of continuing education, including 4 hours of Maryland tax topics. CPAs, enrolled agents, and attorneys are exempt.
Requirements last verified October 2026.
Who must register
Anyone paid to prepare returns for Marylanders
What you need
PTIN plus the Maryland exam (70% or higher)
Renewal
Every 2 years, with 16 hours of CE
How to register in Maryland
1
Get your PTIN
Apply online with the IRS. It costs $18.75 for 2026 and takes about 15 minutes. Maryland asks registered preparers for a copy of their PTIN certificate every year.
2
Prepare for the exam
The Maryland exam covers federal and Maryland tax law. A full tax preparation course gives you the federal foundation before you sit for it.
3
Pass the Maryland exam
You need a score of 70% or higher. The IRS Annual Filing Season Program does not replace the exam, but it does count toward your renewal education.
4
Register with the Board
Apply with the Maryland Board of Individual Tax Preparers. Your registration is valid for two years from the date it is issued. If you plan to e-file, start your EFIN application with the IRS early, since approval can take up to 45 days.
What it costs in Maryland
| Requirement | Cost |
|---|---|
| PTIN | $18.75 for 2026, non-refundable |
| Tax preparation course | from $345 |
| Latino Tax Pro AFSP course | $183.53 in English, Spanish, or bilingual |
| Maryland exam | Set by the state's testing vendor |
| State registration | $100, valid for two years |
| EFIN application | Free |
Maryland beginner courses
Start with a full tax preparation course in English, Spanish, or bilingual, then sit for the Maryland exam with the federal foundation behind you.
Maryland tax preparer questions
Do I need a license to prepare taxes in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland calls it a registration. You must pass the state exam and register with the State Board of Individual Tax Preparers before you prepare returns for pay.
Does the AFSP replace the Maryland exam?
No. The IRS Annual Filing Season Program does not substitute for the Maryland exam. It can count toward the 16 hours of continuing education you need to renew.
Who is exempt from Maryland registration?
Actively licensed CPAs, IRS enrolled agents, attorneys in good standing, and government employees who prepare returns as part of their official duties.
How often do I renew?
Every two years. You need 16 hours of continuing education, and 4 of those hours must cover Maryland tax topics. Two of the four Maryland hours can be an ethics course.
Ready to start in Maryland?
Get your PTIN, take your course, pass the exam, and register. Our bilingual staff can help you choose the right course.
Other state requirements: California · New York · Oregon · Connecticut · All states