The Internal Revenue Service reminded professional tax return preparers to renew their Preparer Tax Identification Numbers (PTINs) if they plan to prepare returns in 2013. Current PTINs expire Dec. 31, 2012. 

Preparers who need to take a competency test are encouraged to schedule an appointment while they are renewing their PTINs. The registered tax return preparer (RTRP) test can be scheduled up to six months in advance, depending on location. Select “next steps and additional requirements” within the online PTIN account to schedule the RTRP test.