The Afera Encyclopaedia: Careers edition
Practising certificate
Verified reference for UK professional registers, credentials and career pathways. Every entry shows its sources and last-verified date. The “Verified by Verifera” mark appears only when all facts are in-window.
How to check an accountant is qualified
Because "accountant" proves nothing, a correct check fans out across the body member registers (ICAEW / ACCA / ICAS / CAI / CIMA / AAT / CIPFA) plus the RSB audit registers — and distinguishes member from practising-certificate holder from registered auditor.
✔ Verified by Verifera · 15 Oct 2026CredentialPractising certificate vs audit registration
A chartered member can hold a practising certificate — entitling them to offer public-practice services such as accounts, tax and advisory, with PI insurance and a complaints route — WITHOUT holding the separate, higher audit registration needed to sign audit opinions. "Accountant" is unprotected; "registered auditor" is legally restricted.
✔ Verified by Verifera · 15 Oct 2026