Bookkeeping Certification  

Many people are eager to get a bookkeeping certification so that they can start earning more money as a bookkeeper. In the U.S, there are two main groups that are recognized for certifications. These are the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) and the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB). Of the two, the AIPB is the more widely recognized organization. 

AIPB Certification Process 

The AIPB has a three step process for bookkeeping certification. The first step is to have people complete and pass a national certification exam. This test is multiple choice and has four parts to it. Two of the sections are open book and the other two sections are not. This test can be taken at a number of different testing sites around the country. In fact, there are over 300. Costs for taking the exam are minimal at $200. However, to take this exam, one must complete an accredited bookkeeping course that can be completed at a local community college or online through one of the accredited online school programs. 

The second step is to sign a contract to follow the ethics and rules of the AIPB. The final step is that the bookkeeper must show records that he/she has worked either part time for 3,000 hours or full time for at least 2 years and this must all be done within 3 years of passing the certification exam in step 1. If all these requirements are met, the person will get a bookkeeping certification from the AIPB. This means they can use the term CPB or Certified Professional Bookkeeper which can help enable them to get more work and/or better clientele.  

People will also be required to do some continuing education training to maintain their bookkeeping certification from the AIPB. This currently is set at 60 hours of continuing professional education credits every 3 years. This is designed to help ensure their knowledge of rules and training stays current. This actually helps protect the integrity of the process and keeps up the quality of all those aspiring to get this certification. 

NACPB Certification Process 

The NACPB also has its own certification process. This process has four different steps to it. The first step is to pass their certification exam known as the Uniform Certified Public Bookkeeper Exam. This exam costs roughly $100. The second step is to sign and agree to their code of ethics and abide by their professional conduct rules. The third step is to show records of performing over 2,000 hours of bookkeeping or accounting work. And the final step that is totally unique from the AIPB process is to fill out CPB license application. It will cost $100 to fill out this application but also enables the person to be able to use the CPB designation.  

The current continuing education standards are that to remain certified, each person must complete 24 hours each year.  

As you can see, the two certification processes are very similar for both groups. One area of distinction is that the NACPB’s exam is all open book in contrast to the AIPB’s version. They also require a slightly higher score to pass the exam.