Connecticut · Tax Preparers · 2026 renewal guide
How to Renew Your Connecticut Tax Preparer License
Connecticut tax preparers must complete 18 hours of board-approved continuing education every 2 years, as required by Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS).
Written by the TradesCE compliance team · Verified against the Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) rule on September 4, 2026.
- CE hours
- 18 hours
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years
- Next deadline
- Per license
- Exam to renew
- Required
Who has to renew
This guide covers Connecticut tax preparers holding a All licensees license. Requirements are set by Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS).
When to renew
Connecticut tax preparers licenses renew every 2 years, on the schedule your board assigns to your license. Continuing education must be complete before you submit the renewal. (https://portal.ct.gov/drs/news---press-releases/2018/2018-latest-news/drs-now-accepting-online-permit-applications-for-tax-preparers-facilitators)
The continuing education Connecticut requires
Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) requires 18 hours of approved continuing education every 2 years. The hours must cover these topics:
- IRS AFSP: 6-hour Annual Federal Tax Refresher (AFTR) course with test
- 10 hours federal tax law
- 2 hours ethics
How to renew, step by step
- 1
Confirm your license class and renewal date
Connecticut sets tax preparers requirements by license class (All licensees). Check the class printed on your license, then note your renewal date — renewals run the schedule your board assigns to your license.
- 2
Complete 18 hours of board-approved continuing education
Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) requires 18 hours every 2 years, including IRS AFSP: 6-hour Annual Federal Tax Refresher (AFTR) course with test, 10 hours federal tax law, 2 hours ethics. Do not leave it for the last week — completions must be on file before the deadline.
See the Connecticut tax preparers course - 3
Save your certificate of completion
Download the certificate the moment you finish and keep it with your license records.
- 4
Make sure your hours reach the board
In Connecticut, you keep your certificate of completion and present it to the board if asked.
- 5
Renew with Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS)
Submit your renewal through the board’s online portal and pay the renewal fee before the deadline. This renewal also requires passing an exam. A late renewal usually means a late fee, and a lapsed license can mean re-applying from scratch.
Go to Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS)
Connecticut tax preparer renewal FAQ
- How many continuing education hours do Connecticut tax preparers need?
- Connecticut tax preparers must complete 18 hours of board-approved continuing education every 2 years, as set by Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS).
- What topics are required for Connecticut tax preparers continuing education?
- Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) requires coverage of: IRS AFSP: 6-hour Annual Federal Tax Refresher (AFTR) course with test; 10 hours federal tax law; 2 hours ethics.
- Is an exam required to renew a Connecticut tax preparers license?
- Yes — Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) requires an examination as part of renewal in addition to continuing education.
- Can Connecticut tax preparers complete continuing education online?
- Yes. Board-approved online courses count toward the Connecticut requirement; timed seat-time and completion records satisfy audit requirements.
Sources
- Connecticut Department of Revenue Services (DRS) — official board site
- Connecticut Tax Preparers continuing education requirements — hours, topics and courses by license class