FAQs - Bookkeeping Certification

Frequently Asked Questions - Certification

We've compiled some FAQs below about the certification pathway to CPB designation, open only to CPB Canada members, that we hope you'll find useful. Not yet a member? Visit our Become a Member page for information on how to join. If you still can't find what you're looking for, contact us and we'll be happy to help.

How does the pathway to designation work?

The certification pathway to Certified Professional Bookkeeper (CPB) designation is open to our members and has 4 distinct levels. The Candidate level is an entry point for those with little to no bookkeeping experience who wish to enter the pathway to CPB designation and work toward the Apprentice level. Our 3 additional levels - Apprentice, Technician, and CPB - each have clear entry requirements and knowledge expectations, increasing your chances of succeeding in certification. Your Pathway level demonstrates your valued knowledge, skills, and experience to clients and employers.

Our pathway is designed to help members at various stages of their career succeed in becoming a CPB. Whether you’re an experienced bookkeeping or accounting professional, a student, or are just starting out in your career, we have the resources and support you need to achieve your career goals.

How do I stay on top of the learning requirements for each level?

As a member of CPB Canada you’ll get access to a variety of learning solutions, including our regional meetings, live and on-demand webinars, and our annual conference to help you stay up-to-date and relevant in an ever-changing world of business and technology.

Members are also provided with the option to upload CPB Canada approved credits they’ve received from external industry conferences, courses, and webinars.

How will I be recognized for my achievements?

Pathway levels that require evidence of knowledge, work experience, software certification, and entry tests (Apprentice, Technician, CPB) reward members with a CPB Canada digital badge of achievement.

Each badge is backed by metadata detailing the requirements met for the level. This data is verified electronically and provides members, and the public, with proof that you have the knowledge expectations and experience that meet our national standard, and you are maintaining the continuing professional development (CPD) requirements for your level. Visit our Get Certified page to learn more about the pathway requirements.

Once a member earns their badge, it can easily be shared with your professional networks, online job banks, resumes, and email signatures, making your credentials more visible on social media. In addition, members who successfully pass their CPB exam and receive their designation are provided with a certificate of achievement that can proudly be displayed.

Please note: Members do not have a licence to use the CPB Canada logo. Apprentice, Technician and CPB members will use their digital badge to display their level of achievement with CPB Canada. All other members can access their CPB Canada membership card through the Member Zone.

Did you know that on average, LinkedIn members with certifications receive 6 times more views on their profile? We encourage you to celebrate your achievements with your clients, employers, and networks by sharing your digital badge in your LinkedIn profile, email signature, and website.

How often do certification exams take place?

The CPB Certification exams occur on the third Thursday of each month, excluding September, during our annual IGNITE conference. Due to the holiday timing, the exam date may be adjusted in December.

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