National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB)

The CPB (Certified Professional Bookkeeper) license is an excellent choice if you work in bookkeeping, manage financial records, or seek to validate your professional expertise in the field. This certification is especially beneficial for individuals responsible for managing business finances, processing transactions, or looking to showcase their dedication to top-tier bookkeeping practices. Earning this license demonstrates your proficiency in maintaining accurate financial records and adhering to professional standards, solidifying your reputation as a skilled and committed bookkeeping professional.

The exam covers six main knowledge areas:

• Accounting Fundamentals (25-30%)

  • Double-entry accounting principles
  • Chart of accounts
  • Accounting cycles
  • Financial statements

• Payroll (20-25%)

  • Payroll calculations
  • Tax withholdings
  • Benefits and deductions
  • Payroll reporting

• Accounts Payable/Receivable (15-20%)

  • Invoice processing
  • Payment management
  • Collections procedures
  • Credit policies

• Asset and Liability Management (15-20%)

  • Fixed asset tracking
  • Depreciation calculations
  • Debt management
  • Bank reconciliations

• Taxation and Compliance (10-15%)

  • Tax forms and filings
  • Regulatory requirements
  • Record keeping standards
  • Reporting deadlines

• Basic accounting principles
• Business math calculations
• Common accounting software
• Excel spreadsheets
• Financial report preparation
• Basic tax regulations
• Standard bookkeeping practices

Yes! The CPB License can enhance your job prospects for roles such as:

• Professional Bookkeeper
• Accounting Assistant
• Accounts Payable/Receivable Specialist
• Small Business Accountant
• Financial Administrator
• Payroll Specialist
• Office Manager

Many employers specifically seek licensed bookkeepers for their demonstrated expertise and professional commitment.

Most candidates spend 2-4 months preparing for the exam, studying 10-15 hours per week. If you have significant bookkeeping experience, you might need less time. However, if you’re new to bookkeeping, you might want to plan for 4-6 months of preparation. The key is to thoroughly understand all concepts and get practical experience.

Your CBP exam voucher, retake costs, and exam prep software, are included in the cost of your tuition. CIAT provides unlimited attempts at passing the CBP license to ensure you start your exam calm and confident, without worrying about what will happen if you don’t pass.

You save hundreds of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses over a DIY studying approach.