Do I Need a Practising Certificate?
If you’re an AIA member working in public practice in the UK or Republic of Ireland, you must hold a practising certificate.
This applies whether you’re a sole practitioner, partner, director or held out as a principal in a firm offering accountancy services. If you’re a principal in a business that doesn’t offer public accountancy services, you may not need a certificate for that role — but you might for others you undertake.
Discover the BenefitsWhat counts as public practice?
You’re considered to be in public practice if you are:
- A principal or held out as a principal in a firm providing accountancy services for financial reward
- Working in a firm that earns more than 10% of its turnover from accountancy services
You’re a principal if you are:
- A sole practitioner
- A salaried or equity partner
- A member of a limited liability partnership (designated or non-designated)
- A statutory or de facto director
- A shadow director
- Held out as a principal
Other roles requiring certification
You must also hold a certificate if you are:
- A responsible individual or key audit partner in an audit firm
- A licensed insolvency practitioner who accepts appointments
These roles require certification under audit and local audit regulations and supervision by a Recognised Supervisory Body (RSB).
Public Practice Regulations
All practising certificate holders are subject to AIA’s Public Practice Regulations, which include rules on monitoring, supervision and professional conduct.
Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII)
If you’re in public practice in the UK or ROI, you must hold appropriate PII as required by AIA regulations.
Even if you’re not required to hold a practising certificate, AIA recommends taking out insurance to protect against potential liabilities. If you don’t hold PII, you must inform your clients.
Anti-money laundering (AML) supervision
AIA automatically supervises members in practice for AML compliance in the UK and ROI.
If you’re not in public practice, you should still assess whether your activities fall under Money Laundering Regulations. If they do, you must be supervised by AIA or another approved body.
Further Guidance
Public Practice Guidance
