How to apply for a PC

How to apply

To apply for a practising certificate, please complete the application form below.

You should read the guidance notes for applicants before completing the practising certificate application form.

• Practising Certificate - application form
• Practising Certificate - guidance notes

Applications are normally processed within 10-14 working days.

If you have any questions, please contact us.

You may also find it useful to use the 'Are you ready to go into practice?' checklist to make sure you have everything you need in place to start up your practice.

2024 practising fees

The 2024 practising fees are:

• £421 for members practising in the UK (including the Practice Assurance fee)
• £96 for members residing outside of the UK
• £59 for OPBAS Levy UK (mainland only)

Free approval service

Technical Advisory Services offers a free and confidential approval service to review your chosen practice name and letterhead and advise whether it satisfies ICAEW and other requirements.

Advisory Services has also produced letterhead checklists and examples to help you get started.

• Access the service and resources

If in doubt, seek advice

Practising without a PC can result in disciplinary action.

Practice Assurance, our compulsory practice review scheme, applies to all members who hold a PC. PC holders are required to comply with the Practice Assurance Regulations.

When you apply for a PC, you must be able to demonstrate recent, relevant post qualification work experience in the areas in which you intend to practise, ethical awareness, CPD and PII compliance.

If you are still unsure or if you are concerned that you may have acted without a PC, contact Advisory Services on +44 (0)1908 248 250 or via webchat; they are able to offer a confidential service and are free from the duty to report misconduct.