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Practising certificates

If you engage in public practice, you need to hold an ICAEW practising certificate (PC). Find out whether you require one and how to apply here.

Do I need a PC?
Find out about changes to PII requirements effective 1 September 2024

Understand which regulations have changed, check your renewal date and ensure you leave sufficient time to prepare for your next renewal.

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What is a practising certificate?

If you are engaged in public practice in the UK, you need to hold an ICAEW practising certificate (PC) and comply with our Professional Indemnity Insurance and Practice Assurance Regulations.

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Practice Certificate changes

Changes to Statement on Members Engaging in Public Practice coming January 2025

  • Article
  • 27 Nov 2024
  • ICAEW
Forthcoming changes to the ICAEW Statement on Members Engaging in Public Practice explain that ICAEW members who are principals in financial services regulated firms must hold a practising certificate (‘PC’) if the firm also provides accountancy services, other than incidentally.
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Guidance

Do I need a practising certificate?

  • Helpsheets and support
  • ICAEW
Guidelines to help you decide if you require a practising certificate.
Find out more
Apply

How to apply for a PC

  • Helpsheets and support
  • ICAEW
If you need a practising certificate, here's how to apply for one.
Find out more

More support

Guidance Articles
  • Listing
  • 04 May 2023
  • ICAEW
Read articles and member experiences relating to practising certificates.
Guidance Definition of public practice
What constitutes engaging in public practice?
Guidance Do independent advisers and consultants need a practising certificate?
This is a common question to the ICAEW’s Regulatory Information helpline. As each situation is different there is no one size fits all answer. This article contains some pointers and examples to help you determine whether or not you need a practising certificate (PC) for the work you do.
Further reading Regulation
Our role as an improvement regulator is to strengthen confidence and trust in those regulated by ICAEW. We do this by enabling, evaluating and enforcing the standards expected by the profession, oversight regulators and government.

Still unsure if you need a PC?

If you aren't sure whether you need a practising certificate or not, call Advisory Services on +44 (0)1908 248 250.

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