Your Path To The CPB Designation
When you join CPB Canada, you gain access to webinars, regional meetings, resources, exclusive member savings, and the complete pathway toward earning the CPB designation.
Because every bookkeeper begins at a different stage, our pathway validates your skills at the level that fits where you are today — whether you’re building foundational knowledge, advancing your experience, or ready for the final exam.
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STEP 1 – Join CPB Canada
To begin the pathway to the CPB designation, you must first join as a Non-Certified Member of CPB Canada. Join today!
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STEP 2 – Initiate the Certification Pathway
Visit the Get Certified page to review requirements and begin your journey.
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STEP 3 – Choose Your Level
Select the option that best aligns with your current knowledge and experience.
Here is a quick snapshot of each level:
CPB Designation – Advanced Level
• Minimum 3 years of bookkeeping experience
• Two reference letters verifying experience
• Successful completion of the CPB Exam (80 percent to pass)
• Digital credential issued upon certificationTechnician (Progress Level) – Intermediate Level
• Minimum of two years of bookkeeping experience
• Reference letters (one if employed, two if self-employed)
• Successful completion of the Technician Entry Test (80 percent to pass)
• Verification only — no digital credential issuedApprentice (Progress Level) – Beginner Level
• Minimum of one year of bookkeeping experience
•One reference letter
• Successful completion of the Apprentice Entry Test (80 percent to pass)
• Verification only — no digital credential issuedTip: Download the Bookkeeping Competencies Checklist to help determine the right level.
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STEP 4 – Complete the Application Form
Submit your application with:
• Required reference letter(s) that verify you’ve met the years of experience requirements
What Happens Next?
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STEP 5 – Complete the Entry Test or Exam
Once approved, you will be directed to:
• Write the Entry Test (Apprentice or Technician), or
• Schedule and pay for the CPB ExamA minimum score of 80 percent is required to pass.
