Ready to elevate your career and become a certified QuickBooks expert? Whether you're an aspiring bookkeeper, an experienced accountant, or a business owner looking to manage your finances better, getting certified can give you a significant edge. This comprehensive, step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process of obtaining your Intuit QuickBooks certification.
Step 1: Are you ready to take control of your career?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's get you excited about what this certification can do for you. Imagine being a go-to expert for businesses of all sizes, from startups to established enterprises, helping them manage their finances with precision and confidence. That's the power of QuickBooks certification. You'll not only gain a deep understanding of the software but also become a trusted advisor in the world of accounting. Are you ready to embark on this journey? Let's get started!
Step 2: Sign Up for QuickBooks Online Accountant (QBOA)
This is the foundational step. To access the training materials and take the certification exams, you need to be part of the QuickBooks ProAdvisor Program. The great news is that joining is free for accounting professionals.
For New Users: Visit the QuickBooks Online Accountant website and sign up for a free account. You'll be asked to provide some basic information about yourself and your firm.
For Existing Users: If you already have a QuickBooks Online account, simply log in and navigate to the QuickBooks Online Accountant dashboard. You will see an option to join the ProAdvisor program.
Once you're signed up, you'll have access to the ProAdvisor portal, which is your gateway to a wealth of resources.
Step 3: Access the ProAdvisor Training and Academy
This is where the real learning begins. Intuit provides a structured and comprehensive training platform, often called the "ProAdvisor Academy," designed to equip you with the knowledge you need to ace the certification exams.
Find the Training Tab: On your QuickBooks Online Accountant dashboard, look for the 'ProAdvisor' tab in the left-hand menu. Click on it, and you'll find the 'Training' section.
Choose Your Certification Path: Intuit offers certifications for various QuickBooks products. The most popular and widely recognized is the QuickBooks Online Certification. You can also pursue certifications for:
QuickBooks Online Advanced Certification
QuickBooks Desktop Certification
QuickBooks Payroll Certification
QuickBooks Enterprise Certification
For most users, the QuickBooks Online Certification is the best place to start. It covers the core features and functions of the online software, which is used by millions of small businesses.
Step 4: Dive into the Training Modules
The training is structured into several self-paced modules. It's crucial that you go through them diligently, as they cover everything you'll be tested on.
Self-Paced Learning: The training is a mix of videos, tutorials, and interactive exercises. The best part is that you can learn at your own pace and revisit topics as many times as you need. Don't rush through the material!
Hands-On Practice: The modules often include "Check-up" or "Practice" exercises where you get to apply what you've learned in a simulated QuickBooks environment. This hands-on experience is incredibly valuable for solidifying your understanding.
Key Topics Covered: The training will cover essential topics, including:
QuickBooks Online Administration and Setup
Sales and Money-In (Invoicing, payments, etc.)
Vendors and Money-Out (Bills, expenses, etc.)
Banking and Reconciliations
Reporting and Financial Statements
Payroll and Tax Management (for the payroll certification)
Pro-Tip: As you go through the training, take detailed notes. This will help you retain information and create a personal study guide for later review.
Step 5: Prepare for the Exam with Practice Tests
Before you attempt the real exam, it's a good idea to test your knowledge with practice exams.
Access Practice Exams: The ProAdvisor training portal often provides practice tests that mimic the format and question style of the actual exam.
Identify Your Weaknesses: Use these practice tests to identify areas where you need more study. Don't be discouraged if you don't score perfectly on your first try. The goal is to learn and improve.
Review Exam Objectives: Intuit provides a list of exam objectives that outlines all the topics you'll be tested on. Make sure you are confident in your understanding of each one.
Step 6: Take the QuickBooks Certification Exam
You've studied, you've practiced, and now you're ready for the final test.
Exam Structure: The certification exam is typically divided into several modules or sections. You must pass each section with a minimum score (usually 80%).
Time Management: The exam is timed, so be mindful of your pace. However, don't rush so much that you make careless errors.
Retake Policy: If you don't pass a section, you usually have a few attempts to retake it after a waiting period. So, take a deep breath and stay calm.
Step 7: Receive Your Certification and Become a ProAdvisor
Once you pass all the required sections, congratulations! You are now a certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor.
Download Your Badge: You will be able to download your official QuickBooks ProAdvisor certification badge from your account. This badge is a powerful credential that you can display on your website, business cards, and social media profiles.
Create Your ProAdvisor Profile: As a certified ProAdvisor, you'll be listed in the QuickBooks Find-a-ProAdvisor directory. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with potential clients who are looking for certified experts. Make sure you complete your profile with all your services, experience, and contact information. A well-crafted profile can be a client-magnet!
Step 8: Maintain Your Certification
Your certification is valid for a year. To maintain your status and stay up-to-date with the latest features, you need to recertify annually.
Annual Recertification: Intuit releases a new certification exam each year to reflect software updates and changes. You'll need to pass the new exam to keep your ProAdvisor status active.
Continuing Professional Education (CPE): Some certifications may also offer CPE credits, which can be valuable for licensed accountants and bookkeepers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to become a QuickBooks ProAdvisor for free?
You can become a QuickBooks ProAdvisor for free by signing up for a QuickBooks Online Accountant account. The training materials and certification exams for QuickBooks Online are provided at no cost through this program.
How to prepare for the QuickBooks certification exam?
To prepare, you should use the free training modules and practice exams available in the QuickBooks Online Accountant ProAdvisor portal. Focus on the hands-on exercises and take thorough notes.
How to find study materials for QuickBooks certification?
All the necessary study materials are available within the QuickBooks Online Accountant platform under the 'ProAdvisor' and 'Training' tabs. These include videos, webinars, and self-paced courses.
How to know which QuickBooks certification is right for me?
The QuickBooks Online Certification is the most popular and is a great starting point. If you work with clients using the desktop version, you should pursue the QuickBooks Desktop certification. Consider your clients' needs and your career goals when choosing.
How to retake the QuickBooks certification exam?
If you fail a section of the exam, you can typically retake it after a short waiting period (e.g., 24 hours). You are usually given multiple attempts.
How to use my QuickBooks ProAdvisor certification to get clients?
Once you're certified, you can create a detailed profile in the Find-a-ProAdvisor directory. This online directory is a primary resource for small businesses seeking QuickBooks experts. You can also display your badge on your website and marketing materials.
How to get the QuickBooks ProAdvisor badge?
After successfully passing the certification exam, your ProAdvisor badge will become available for download in your QuickBooks Online Accountant account.
How to renew my QuickBooks certification?
You must pass the latest certification exam each year to renew your certification. Intuit updates the exam annually to ensure ProAdvisors are proficient in the most recent version of the software.
How to access the QuickBooks ProAdvisor program benefits?
The benefits, which include free training, software discounts, and access to the directory, are all available through your QuickBooks Online Accountant account once you've signed up for the ProAdvisor program.
How to get a QuickBooks certification without any accounting background?
While an accounting background is helpful, it is not a prerequisite. The training modules are designed to teach you the software from the ground up, and you can supplement your learning with external bookkeeping courses if needed.