Career roadmap
How to Become a Tax Examiner
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a tax examiner, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a tax examiner: (1) study accounting, (2) apply to agencies, (3) complete agency training, (4) handle cases, (5) advance. Most people need about 4 years + agency training. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a tax examiner
Study accounting
Earn a bachelor’s.
Apply to agencies
IRS or state revenue departments.
Complete agency training
Learn procedures.
Handle cases
Build experience.
Advance
Senior auditor or manager.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree is typical, often in accounting or a related field, plus agency training.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 4 years + agency training |
Certifications and licenses
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA): Valued for revenue agents.
- Enrolled Agent (EA): IRS tax credential.
- Certified Internal Auditor (CIA): Audit credential.
- Agency training programs: Required for examiners.
Skills to build now
Start with tax law, accounting, and auditing, and practice integrity and attention to detail. Learning the tax examiner vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Tax Examiner: Review returns.
- Revenue Agent or Officer: Audit or collect.
- Senior Agent: Handle complex cases.
- Group Manager: Lead teams.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Tax Examiner training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do tax examiners need a degree?
Usually a bachelor’s, often in accounting.
How long does it take to become a tax examiner?
Most people need about 4 years + agency training of training. A bachelor’s degree is typical, often in accounting or a related field, plus agency training.
Do you need a degree to be a tax examiner?
Usually, yes. BLS lists a bachelor's degree as the typical entry-level education, although skills, certifications and experience can sometimes substitute.
What certifications are available for tax examiners?
Common credentials include Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Enrolled Agent (EA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), and Agency training programs. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 13-2081 (Tax examiners and collectors, and revenue agents).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Tax examiners and collectors, and revenue agents (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.