Canadian Bookkeeping Certification

Bookkeeping in Canada is unregulated in that anyone can offer their service as a professional bookkeeper. However, there is a certification process and exam that certifies professional bookkeepers.

Bookkeeping in Canada is unregulated in that any individual can offer their service as a professional bookkeeper, despite their past experience, or lack thereof, in the field. However, there is a certification process and exam given by the Institute of Professional Bookkeepers of Canada (IPBC) that can provide a bookkeeper with the title of certified public bookkeeper (CPB). Clients and employers know that CPBs have been thoroughly trained and are generally equipped to provide the best service. Because of this, certified bookkeepers often earn higher wages and are more competitive applicants for bookkeeping positions.

Experience

In order to become a CPB, according to the IPBC, you must have at least two years experience of full-time work as a professional bookkeeper and a letter from a long-term client or employer to prove your experience.

Registration Fees

Before taking the test, you must register with IPBC. The cost involved with registration is a one-time fee of $175.

Scheduling Tests and Testing Fees

The test must be taken at an official IPBC testing location, of which there are over 300 in Canada. The IPBC will provide the applicant with the test location nearest to their home. A fee is involved with the test, which can cost up to $90, depending on the location. The test consists entirely of multiple choice questions answered on a computer provided at the test location.

Results and Retests

Because the test is taken on a computer, you will receive the results immediately upon the completion of the exam. A score of 75 percent or better is needed in order to pass. If you obtain a score lower than 75 percent, you can retake the test immediately or at a different time; however, a $175 retest fee will be applied. You can retake the test as many times as needed, but the fee will be applied to all retakes.

Continuing Education

Once the test is passed and certification is gained, the IPBC requires CPBs to take at least 15 credit hours of bookkeeping classes every year in order to maintain their certification. Verification of credits issued must be presented to the IPBC. Courses can be taken at local colleges or online.

References

• IPBC: CPB Certification