Welcome to the CPB Canada FAQ page! Here, we’ve gathered answers to the most common questions about our community, the Certified Professional Bookkeeper (CPB) designation, and our certification pathway. We are committed to providing you with clear, straightforward information to support you on your professional journey.
About the CPB Designation
What is a Certified Professional Bookkeeper (CPB)?
The CPB designation is the national standard for professional bookkeepers in Canada, set and maintained by CPB Canada. Achieving this designation demonstrates a high level of knowledge, education, and skill across all key bookkeeping functions, including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Payroll, Sales Taxes, and Inventory management.
To earn their CPB designation, a professional must successfully pass an advanced bookkeeping exam, proving their expertise. This designation signals more than just an ability to balance the books; it tells a story of competence, discipline, and professional accountability.
To maintain their designation with CPB Canada, CPBs are required to continue their learning and growth through continuing professional development and need to work hard to stay relevant in an ever-changing world of business and technology. CPBs specialize in accounting technology, streamlining business and financial workflows, and provide a different perspective in financial & business best practices – a worthwhile investment for any business.
Why should a business hire a CPB?
Hiring a CPB is a valuable investment for any business. The role of a bookkeeper has evolved, and today’s CPBs are trusted advisors who offer specialized accounting and business advisory services. They don’t just input data; they analyze it, identify trends, and provide accurate, timely reporting that tells the financial story of your business.
CPBs are required to pursue continuing professional development to stay current with the ever-changing world of business and technology. Their advanced knowledge can provide crucial insights into your company’s financial health, helping you make informed decisions to grow and succeed.
What is the difference between CPBs and CPAs?
While both are certified accounting professionals dedicated to excellence, their roles can differ. CPBs specialize in the day-to-day financial and business workflows, often working directly with a business’s financial data on a weekly or even daily basis. They provide specialized accounting advice and insights, frequently partnering with a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) to present comprehensive solutions for their clients.
The bookkeeping profession is unregulated, which makes the national standard set by CPB Canada vital. Like CPAs, CPBs must complete continuing professional development. When you work with a CPB, you can be confident you are partnering with a professional committed to maintaining the highest standards of knowledge and skill.
Where can I find a qualified bookkeeper?
You can hire with confidence through our Verify a Bookkeeper directory. This tool allows you to search Certified Professional Bookkeepers (CPBs) across Canada — highly qualified professionals who have demonstrated advanced bookkeeping knowledge, met strict experience requirements, and successfully completed the CPB certification exam.
CPB-designated members can provide Digital Credentials, offering instant, one-click verification of their certification status.
The directory also includes Non-Certified members who are active members in good standing but have not yet earned the CPB designation. Some of these members may have completed verified competency assessments at the Beginner (Apprentice) or Intermediate (Technician) levels and can provide official verification issued by CPB Canada.
The Certification Pathway
How does the pathway to the CPB designation work?
Our certification pathway is designed to support you at every stage of your career. It is open exclusively to CPB Canada members and features three distinct levels:
- CPB (Certified Professional Bookkeeper):
The highest level of certification, recognizing verified experience, advanced competency, and ongoing professional development. - Technician:
For professionals who have demonstrated intermediate bookkeeping skills and are progressing toward the CPB designation. - Apprentice:
For those building foundational experience and developing their bookkeeping competencies.
Each level has clear entry requirements and knowledge expectations, empowering you to progress with confidence. Whether you are a student, new to the profession, or an experienced bookkeeper, we have the resources to help you achieve your career goals.
- Quick Tip: Ready to start your journey? Become a Member to gain access to the certification pathway.
How do I stay on top of the learning requirements?
As a CPB Canada member, you gain access to a wealth of learning opportunities designed to keep your skills sharp and relevant. We are committed to your growth and offer a variety of resources, including:
- Regional meetings
- Live and on-demand webinars and workshops
- Our annual IGNITE conference
You can also upload approved credits from external courses, conferences, and webinars to meet your continuing professional development (CPD) requirements.
How will my achievements be recognized?
CPB (Certified Professional Bookkeeper):
Members who earn the CPB designation receive a CPB Canada digital credential, backed by verified data and easily shareable on LinkedIn, websites, resumes, and email signatures.
Technician and Apprentice:
Members who achieve a Progress Level receive an official verification from CPB Canada confirming the competencies they have met – a credible way to demonstrate growing expertise as they work toward the CPB designation.
Did you know?
LinkedIn members who display professional credentials receive significantly more views. Share your achievement and highlight your commitment to excellence!
How often are the certification exams held?
The CPB Certification exam is held on the third Thursday of each month, except for September (during our annual IGNITE conference). The exam date in December may be adjusted to accommodate the holiday season.
