If you’re an accountant, bookkeeper, or small business consultant looking to boost your credibility and grow your client base, becoming a Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor can be a game-changer. With QuickBooks being one of the most widely used accounting software programs by small and medium-sized businesses, certification helps you stand out in a competitive market.
This blog will walk you through everything you need to know—from signing up for the QuickBooks ProAdvisor course to completing the QuickBooks proadvisor certification exam and leveraging your new status to find clients searching for a QuickBooks proadvisor near me.
What Is a QuickBooks ProAdvisor?
A QuickBooks ProAdvisor is a trained, certified expert in QuickBooks who provides valuable services such as bookkeeping, accounting, tax prep, and consulting. Intuit, the maker of QuickBooks, offers the ProAdvisor program to support professionals in expanding their knowledge, improving their skills, and helping their clients better manage their finances.
There are two major tracks in the program:
1 QuickBooks Online (QBO) Certification – Most popular and entirely cloud-based.
2. QuickBooks Desktop Certification – Ideal for professionals serving clients using the desktop version.
Each certification track has multiple levels, such as Core, Advanced, and Specialized certifications.
Why Become a Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor?
Becoming a Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor enhances your credibility and opens up new career opportunities in accounting and bookkeeping. Certification demonstrates your expertise in QuickBooks, making you more attractive to clients or employers. You’ll gain access to exclusive resources, training, and support from Intuit, as well as the ability to be listed in the QuickBooks Find-a-ProAdvisor directory, which helps attract new business. Whether you’re starting your practice or growing an existing one, certification is a valuable step toward success.
Here are some of the biggest benefits of completing the QuickBooks ProAdvisor certification:
1. Professional Credibility
Being a certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor adds an extra layer of trust and legitimacy. Your clients will know they’re working with someone who’s been vetted and trained by Intuit.
2. Free Software & Tools
As a member of the ProAdvisor program, you’ll gain access to free versions of QuickBooks products, training resources, and tools that would otherwise cost hundreds of dollars.
3. Marketing Boost
Once certified, you’ll be listed in the QuickBooks ProAdvisor Directory, allowing potential clients to find a QuickBooks ProAdvisor near me through Intuit’s search tool. This visibility can lead to high-quality leads from people already searching for your services.
4. Skill Development
The QuickBooks ProAdvisor training ensures you’re always up to date with the latest software features, accounting practices, and client service strategies.
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a QuickBooks ProAdvisor
Step 1: Sign Up for QuickBooks Online Accountant (QBOA)
The first step is to register for a free account with QuickBooks Online Accountant. This platform is your central hub for managing clients and accessing QuickBooks ProAdvisor training materials.
Here’s how to do it:
- Visit the QuickBooks Online Accountant website.
- Click “Sign Up.”
- Provide your business and contact information.
- Set up your dashboard.
Once you’re in, you’ll gain access to a wide range of tools and the ProAdvisor certification program.
Step 2: Enroll in the QuickBooks ProAdvisor Course
Now it’s time to start learning. The QuickBooks ProAdvisor course includes video tutorials, quizzes, and downloadable study guides. All materials are provided free of charge within your QBOA portal.
The QuickBooks ProAdvisor training covers:
- Navigating the QuickBooks dashboard
- Managing clients and transactions
- Setting up accounts, vendors, and customers
- Creating reports and performing reconciliations
- Best practices for business workflows
There’s no rush; you can complete the training modules at your own pace.
Step 3: Take the Certification Exam
Once you feel confident with the materials, you can take the QuickBooks ProAdvisor certification exam. Here’s what you need to know:
- The exam has 80+ multiple-choice questions.
- It is broken into several sections (typically 5-7).
- You must score at least 80% in each section to pass.
- You get 3 attempts to pass. If you fail all three, you’ll have to wait 60 days before trying again.
You can leave the exam between sections and return later, which is helpful if you want to take your time.
Step 4: Display Your Certified Status
After passing the exam, you’re officially a certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor! You’ll receive a digital badge that can be used on your website, LinkedIn, email signature, and more.
Your profile will also appear in the Find a ProAdvisor directory, making it easy for clients in your area to find a QuickBooks ProAdvisor near me.
Optional: Advanced Certification
Once you’ve earned the core certification, you can go a step further by completing the Advanced QuickBooks ProAdvisor certification. This more in-depth exam covers topics like advanced reporting, troubleshooting, and data imports.
This credential adds another level of credibility and can lead to higher-paying clients.
How Much Does It Cost?
The best part? It’s completely free to become a QuickBooks Online certified ProAdvisor. You don’t have to pay for the training, the course materials, or the exam if you’re working through QuickBooks Online Accountant.
There is a cost associated with QuickBooks Desktop ProAdvisor certifications, but these also come with valuable software and training bundles.
Finding Work as a QuickBooks ProAdvisor
Once certified, there are multiple ways to find work:
1. QuickBooks ProAdvisor Directory
Intuit’s directory allows people to search for a QuickBooks ProAdvisor near me. Clients can read reviews, check certifications, and reach out directly to hire you.
2. Networking and Referrals
Attend local business events or join accounting groups. Other professionals often refer QuickBooks clients when they need help setting up or managing their books.
3. Freelance Platforms
Sites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer are full of business owners looking for QuickBooks expertise. Being a certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor gives you a competitive edge on these platforms.
4. Social Media and Local SEO
Use platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook to promote your services. Optimize your Google Business Profile so people in your area can find you when they search for QuickBooks ProAdvisor near me.
Tips for Success as a QuickBooks ProAdvisor
- Keep learning – QuickBooks updates regularly. Stay ahead by taking refresher courses and getting advanced certifications.
- Specialize – Niching down into industries like construction, e-commerce, or real estate can help you attract more clients.
- Offer value-added services – Go beyond basic bookkeeping. Offer training, consulting, and system setup to diversify your income.
- Ask for reviews – After a job well done, ask clients to leave reviews on your ProAdvisor profile to build credibility.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor is one of the smartest moves you can make if you’re an accounting or bookkeeping professional. The QuickBooks ProAdvisor course is comprehensive, the training is top-tier, and the certification opens doors to real, profitable opportunities.
From getting listed in the QuickBooks ProAdvisor near me directory to earning trust with new clients, certification gives you the tools, credibility, and visibility to grow your business. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your practice, now is the perfect time to get certified.
