Best QuickBooks Certifications for Bookkeepers: Top Career Credentials Compared
Best credentials • Bookkeeping

Best QuickBooks Certifications for Bookkeepers

For bookkeepers using QuickBooks Online, start with QuickBooks Online Certification Level 1. Level 2 is the current successor to the older 'Advanced Certification' naming and should come after Level 1 plus real product experience.

Quick answer

Separate education, software certification and professional designation.

For bookkeepers using QuickBooks Online, start with QuickBooks Online Certification Level 1. Level 2 is the current successor to the older 'Advanced Certification' naming and should come after Level 1 plus real product experience.

Top options

Bookkeeping credentials worth comparing

Best core QuickBooks credential

QuickBooks Online Certification Level 1

Core QBO workflows.

9.2EDITORIAL FIT
LevelBeginner–intermediate
TypePlatform certification
Best useCore QBO workflows
Next stepLevel 2
FieldBookkeeping
Best for: learners whose experience level matches the credential.
Best advanced QBO credential

QuickBooks Online Certification Level 2

Advanced QuickBooks workflows.

9.1EDITORIAL FIT
LevelExperienced QBO user
TypePlatform certification
Best useAdvanced QuickBooks workflows
Next stepAdvanced client work
FieldBookkeeping
Best for: learners whose experience level matches the credential.
Best payroll specialization

QuickBooks Workforce / Payroll Certification

Payroll workflows.

9.0EDITORIAL FIT
LevelSpecialist
TypePlatform certification
Best usePayroll workflows
Next stepPayroll client services
FieldBookkeeping
Best for: learners whose experience level matches the credential.
Best bookkeeping complement

Intuit Bookkeeping Certification

Bookkeeping knowledge beyond software.

8.9EDITORIAL FIT
LevelBeginner–intermediate
TypeBookkeeping certification
Best useBookkeeping knowledge beyond software
Next stepClient bookkeeping work
FieldBookkeeping
Best for: learners whose experience level matches the credential.
FAQ

Best QuickBooks Certifications for Bookkeepers questions

What is the current name of QuickBooks Online Advanced Certification?

Intuit now uses QuickBooks Online Certification Level 2 for the credential previously called QuickBooks Online Advanced Certification.

Do you need Level 1 before Level 2?

Yes. Intuit currently requires passing QuickBooks Online Certification Level 1 first.

How long should you wait before Level 2?

Intuit says it is best to wait at least 90 days before taking Level 2 training and the exam.

Do QuickBooks certifications require annual recertification?

Yes. Intuit currently runs annual recertification for QuickBooks Online Level 1 and Level 2.

Does a QuickBooks certification prove full bookkeeping competence?

No. It validates QuickBooks product knowledge, which should sit on top of solid bookkeeping fundamentals.

Which QuickBooks credential should a freelance bookkeeper prioritize?

Level 1 first, then Level 2 if your client work genuinely uses advanced features.

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