How to Become an Enrolled Agent

An individual can become an agent by passing the IRS’s Special Enrollment Examination or through technical experience from past service with the Internal Revenue Service. For more details, see Enrolled Agent Information on the IRS website.

The Special Enrollment Examination (SEE) is administered by Prometric, a testing firm with offices throughout the United States. Forms, instructions, and publications to study the examination can be downloaded from the IRS website. Preparation courses are offered by some Enrolled Agent chapters (including the Orange County Chapter of Enrolled Agents) and by a variety of commercial education providers and are available in live and distance learning formats. Search the Internet under IRS SEE Exam Preparation.

After successfully passing the SEE examination, the prospective Enrolled Agent must apply with the IRS Office of Professional Responsibility and undergo a background check prior to being enrolled.

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