How to Become a Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor (Step by Step)

How to Become a Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor (Step by Step)

A QuickBooks ProAdvisor is an accountant or bookkeeper who has passed Intuit's QuickBooks certification. Certification shows clients you know the software, gets you listed in Intuit's ProAdvisor directory and gives you access to discounts and tools for managing clients.

Step 1: Sign Up for QuickBooks Online Accountant

Create a free QuickBooks Online Accountant account. This joins you to the ProAdvisor program, gives you a free QuickBooks Online subscription for your own firm and unlocks the ProAdvisor Academy training.

Step 2: Choose Your Certification

• Level 1 (formerly Core) — the starting certification for QuickBooks Online
• Level 2 (formerly Advanced) — for experienced users, available after Level 1
• Desktop and specialty certifications — such as QuickBooks Desktop, Enterprise and Payroll, depending on what Intuit offers that year

Step 3: Complete the Training

The ProAdvisor Academy has self-paced courses, plus live sessions that cover setup, banking, sales, expenses, payroll, reporting and managing client files. You can practice in the free sample company as you go.

Step 4: Pass the Exam

You need an overall score of at least 80%. If you score below 80% on the full exam, you retake the whole exam, even if you passed some sections. Intuit also offers exams built into each learning course, with unlimited attempts, that count toward certification.

Step 5: Recertify Every Year

Certification has to be renewed each year to cover new features. In 2026, recertification ran from April 28 to June 30. Watch your QuickBooks Online Accountant account for next year's dates, because missing the deadline removes your certified status.

Step 6: Complete Your Directory Profile

Once certified, fill out your profile in the Find-a-ProAdvisor directory with your services, industries and location. A complete profile with reviews is how many small businesses find their bookkeeper.