How to Get Your PTIN and Schedule Your EA Exam in 2025

Ready to turn intent into action? In Part 2, I’ll show you exactly how to get your PTIN, set up your IRS online account, and schedule your SEE exam at Prometric. This 2025 walkthrough is based on my own path as an EA candidate in New York — concise, practical, and beginner-friendly.

1️⃣ What a PTIN is (and who needs it)

A PTIN (Preparer Tax Identification Number) is the IRS identifier for paid tax return preparers.
If you plan to prepare returns for compensation or sit for the EA process professionally, you need an active PTIN.
It’s renewable annually and ties your identity to the returns you touch.

Heads-up: Renewal typically opens in October each year. Keep your name, address, and email current so renewal notices don’t get lost.

2️⃣ Create your IRS Online Account (2025)

You’ll manage your PTIN through the IRS PTIN portal. The 2025 flow uses identity verification (via ID.me) with photo ID and a short live check. Have your smartphone and a passport/driver’s license ready.

Go to rpr.irs.gov (PTIN portal)
Create/Sign in with ID.me → verify email and set MFA
Complete identity check (selfie match + government ID)
Land on your PTIN dashboard (“New Application” or “Renew”)

Quick note from my run: I used a passport and finished verification within minutes.
If the match fails, try brighter lighting and remove glasses to avoid glare.

3️⃣ Apply for a PTIN in 10–15 minutes (2025)

Have these ready before you start:

SSN or ITIN
Legal name, mailing address, phone, and email
Any prior PTIN (if renewing)
Payment card for the $18.75 application/renewal fee (2025)

Fill out your personal info → answer suitability questions → pay the fee → you’ll see your PTIN instantly on screen and in your inbox.
Save the receipt and confirmation PDF — you’ll use your PTIN when you book the exam.

Keep it consistent: Your legal name here must match what you’ll use at Prometric. Even a missing middle name can trigger a day-of test delay.

4️⃣ Book your SEE exam at Prometric

After your PTIN is active, head to the Prometric page for the IRS Special Enrollment Examination (SEE).
Create a candidate profile, select Part 1/2/3, choose a test center (or available remote options, if offered), and pay the exam fee.

Test sponsor: IRS – Special Enrollment Examination (SEE)
Use the exact same name and email as your PTIN profile
Bring valid, unexpired government ID that matches your booking
Arrive 30 minutes early for ID checks and locker setup

Real-world tip: Weekend seats in city centers (e.g., Manhattan) disappear fast.
I found better availability by checking nearby locations and early-morning weekday slots.

5️⃣ Practical tips & easy-to-miss mistakes

Name lock-in: Align your PTIN, IRS account, and Prometric profile names exactly.
Renew early: Don’t let your PTIN lapse mid-study — renew the moment October opens.
Save everything: Screenshot the PTIN dashboard, payment receipt, and Prometric booking page.
Email hygiene: Add IRS and Prometric to safe-sender lists so alerts don’t hit spam.
Plan your study window: Book 2–3 weeks ahead to secure your ideal date and time.

Start here:
Part 1-Becoming an Enrolled Agent — How to Start Your EA Journey in 2025
Part 3 – How I Studied Smart and Passed the EA Exam in 2025

Part 2: How to Get Your PTIN and Schedule Your EA Exam in 2025