Skip to main content

Iowa · Tax Preparers · 2026 renewal guide

How to Renew Your Iowa Tax Preparer License

Iowa tax preparers must complete 15 hours of board-approved continuing education every year, as required by Iowa Department of Revenue.

Written by the TradesCE compliance team · Verified against the Iowa Department of Revenue rule on September 4, 2026.

CE hours
15 hours
Renewal cycle
Every year
Next deadline
December 31, 2026
Exam to renew
Not required

Who has to renew

This guide covers Iowa tax preparers holding a All licensees license. Requirements are set by Iowa Department of Revenue.

When to renew

Iowa tax preparers licenses renew every year, on a fixed statewide date — every licensee renews on the same day. The next renewal deadline is December 31, 2026. Continuing education must be complete before you submit the renewal. (IA Tax Preparers: 15 hrs CE must be completed during prior calendar year (Iowa Code 421.64) - Dec 31 annual CE deadline, no registration)

The continuing education Iowa requires

Iowa Department of Revenue requires 15 hours of approved continuing education every year. The hours must cover these topics:

  • professional ethics (2 hours)
  • federal or state income tax (remaining 13 hours)

How to renew, step by step

  1. 1

    Confirm your license class and renewal date

    Iowa sets tax preparers requirements by license class (All licensees). Check the class printed on your license, then note your renewal date — renewals run a fixed statewide date — every licensee renews on the same day; the next fixed deadline is December 31, 2026.

  2. 2

    Complete 15 hours of board-approved continuing education

    Iowa Department of Revenue requires 15 hours every year, including professional ethics (2 hours), federal or state income tax (remaining 13 hours). Do not leave it for the last week — completions must be on file before the deadline.

    See the Iowa tax preparers course
  3. 3

    Save your certificate of completion

    Download the certificate the moment you finish and keep it with your license records.

  4. 4

    Make sure your hours reach the board

    In Iowa, you keep your certificate of completion and present it to the board if asked.

  5. 5

    Renew with Iowa Department of Revenue

    Submit your renewal and pay the renewal fee before the deadline. A late renewal usually means a late fee, and a lapsed license can mean re-applying from scratch.

    Go to Iowa Department of Revenue

Iowa tax preparer renewal FAQ

How many continuing education hours do Iowa tax preparers need?
Iowa tax preparers must complete 15 hours of board-approved continuing education every year, as set by Iowa Department of Revenue.
What topics are required for Iowa tax preparers continuing education?
Iowa Department of Revenue requires coverage of: professional ethics (2 hours); federal or state income tax (remaining 13 hours).
Can Iowa tax preparers complete continuing education online?
Yes. Board-approved online courses count toward the Iowa requirement; timed seat-time and completion records satisfy audit requirements.

Sources