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Oregon tax preparer license
Do you need a license to prepare taxes in Oregon? Yes. You need an approved 80-hour course and a passing score on the state exam before the Oregon Board of Tax Practitioners will license you.
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What Oregon requires
Oregon was the first state to require education and licensing for paid tax preparers. If you prepare Oregon returns for pay, you need a license from the Oregon Board of Tax Practitioners. For what every state requires, see our guide on how to become a tax preparer.
To become a Licensed Tax Preparer, you complete an 80-hour board-approved basic tax course, then pass the state exam with a score of 75% or higher. Licensed Tax Preparers work under the supervision of a Licensed Tax Consultant or CPA. Licenses expire every September 30, and renewing takes 30 hours of continuing education a year.
Requirements last verified October 2026.
Who needs a license
Anyone paid to prepare Oregon returns
What you need
80-hour course plus the state exam (75% or higher)
Renewal
Every year by September 30, with 30 hours of CE
How to get licensed in Oregon
1
Get your PTIN
Apply online with the IRS. It costs $18.75 for 2026 and takes about 15 minutes.
2
Complete your 80-hour course
Your basic tax course must be approved by the Oregon Board of Tax Practitioners. Keep your certificate of completion, since you submit it with your license application.
3
Pass the state exam
You need a score of 75% or higher on the tax preparer exam administered by the Board.
4
Apply for your license
Apply with the Oregon Board of Tax Practitioners. As a Licensed Tax Preparer, you work under a Licensed Tax Consultant or CPA. Continuing education is waived for your first renewal.
What it costs in Oregon
| Requirement | Cost |
|---|---|
| PTIN | $18.75 for 2026, non-refundable |
| Latino Tax Pro AFSP course | $183.53 in English, Spanish, or bilingual |
| State exam and license | Set by the Oregon Board of Tax Practitioners |
| Continuing education | 30 hours a year, waived for your first renewal |
Oregon beginner courses
Build your foundation in English, Spanish, or bilingual before you take on Oregon's 80-hour course and state exam.
Oregon tax preparer questions
Do I need a license to prepare taxes in Oregon?
Yes. If you prepare Oregon returns for pay, you need a license from the Oregon Board of Tax Practitioners. Oregon licenses preparers in two levels: Licensed Tax Preparer and Licensed Tax Consultant.
What is the difference between a preparer and a consultant?
A Licensed Tax Preparer is the entry-level license and works under the supervision of a Licensed Tax Consultant or CPA. A Licensed Tax Consultant can work independently and supervise preparers. Most people start as a preparer.
What score do I need on the Oregon exam?
75% or higher on the tax preparer exam administered by the Board. You also submit your 80-hour course certificate with your license application.
How much continuing education do I need?
30 hours a year, including at least 2 hours of ethics. Continuing education is waived for your first renewal, and licenses expire every September 30.
Ready to start in Oregon?
Get your PTIN, complete your 80-hour course, pass the exam, and apply for your license. Our bilingual staff can help you choose where to start.
Other state requirements: California · Maryland · New York · Connecticut · All states