Requirements & Prerequisites

EA (Enrolled Agent) Requirements & Prerequisites

Everything you need to know before registering for the EA (Enrolled Agent) — eligibility, cost, format, and what to expect on exam day.

Cost

$203 per part

Provider

IRS

Validity

3 years (72 CE hours)

Available

USA

Prerequisites & Eligibility

Education

Check official exam requirements

Experience

6-12 months of relevant experience recommended

Specific Requirements

  • No formal prerequisites — open to all candidates
  • Recommended: some hands-on experience
Exam Format

Number of Questions

60-90 questions

Duration

90-130 minutes

Question Format

Multiple choice, some performance-based

Passing Requirement

Passing required (~70% average pass rate)

Difficulty: MediumSalary Impact: $55k-$100k
How to Register
1

Visit the official IRS certification page

2

Create an account and select your exam

3

Choose a test center or online proctoring option

4

Pay the exam fee and schedule your date

What to Bring on Exam Day
  • Two forms of valid ID (one government-issued with photo)
  • Appointment confirmation email
  • For online proctoring: webcam, microphone, clean desk, stable internet
Frequently Asked Questions

What are the prerequisites for the EA (Enrolled Agent)?

No formal prerequisites — open to all candidates. Recommended: some hands-on experience.

How much does the EA (Enrolled Agent) cost?

The EA (Enrolled Agent) exam costs $203 per part. This includes the exam fee only — study materials are additional.

How do I register for the EA (Enrolled Agent)?

Visit the official IRS certification page → Create an account and select your exam → Choose a test center or online proctoring option → Pay the exam fee and schedule your date

What should I bring to the EA (Enrolled Agent)?

Two forms of valid ID (one government-issued with photo). Appointment confirmation email. For online proctoring: webcam, microphone, clean desk, stable internet.

Ready to prepare for EA (Enrolled Agent)?

Get the complete exam guide with study plan, tips, and practice questions.

View EA (Enrolled Agent) Guide