CTLP® Designation

Become a Certified Tax Lien Professional (CTLP)®

The only recognized professional credential in the tax lien and tax deed industry, awarded exclusively by the National Tax Lien Association. The CTLP® signals demonstrated knowledge, ethical conduct and ongoing professional education.

How it works

Your Path to the CTLP®

Apply once, then complete four steps in NTLA University. NTLA staff confirm your eligibility and case study; your points are self-reported and update on your dashboard as soon as you submit.

1

Eligibility & ethics

Apply as an active NTLA member, add your nomination from a current CTLP® and sign the Code of Ethics and Sherman Anti-Trust Compliance Statement.

2

Required course

Complete the NTLA University Tax Lien Investing Course for your first 25 points.

3

Earn 75 more points

Attend NTLA conferences and webinars, speak, serve on committees or publish on ntla.org.

4

Good Partner case study

Show how you are a "good partner" in the community where you live or work. Then receive your CTLP®.

Brad Westover presenting certificates at an NTLA event
Recognized by NTLA

Earned, Not Self-Proclaimed

Every CTLP® is reviewed and awarded by the National Tax Lien Association. Designees are recognized at NTLA events, in conference brochures and on ntla.org.

  • Reviewed by NTLA staff, from eligibility through your Good Partner case study
  • Backed by the NTLA Code of Ethics and ongoing continuing education
  • Listed in the directory of current designees
100 points required

How You Earn Your Points

The required course counts for 25 points. Earn the rest from any mix of approved activities.

Eligibility: active NTLA member in good standing, nomination by a current CTLP®, agreement to the NTLA Code of Ethics and Sherman Anti-Trust Compliance Statement, 100 points, and an approved Good Partner case study.

Step one: NTLA membership

Not an NTLA Member Yet?

The CTLP® is open to active NTLA members in good standing. Join the National Tax Lien Association first, then apply for your designation.

  • An industry-wide professional network of tax lien and tax deed investors, lenders, attorneys and local officials
  • Monthly webinars, which also count toward your CTLP® points
  • Discounted rates for the NTLA Annual Conference and Fall Symposium
  • Member pricing on NTLA University courses

Become a member

Membership is open to investors, lenders and industry professionals, with dues tailored to individuals and organizations.

Already a member? Apply for the CTLP®

Why it matters

What the CTLP® Does for You

  • Sets you apart from untrained or self-proclaimed "experts" in the tax lien and tax deed space
  • Builds credibility with investors, counties, municipalities and industry partners
  • Listed annually in NTLA Annual Conference and Fall Symposium brochures
  • Recognition in NTLA publications, on ntla.org and at NTLA events
  • Positions you as a preferred partner and opens speaking, teaching and leadership roles
  • Greater visibility with NTLA Board members, industry leaders and policymakers

Fees & renewal

$350Application & designation, valid 3 years
$150Renewal every 3 years
  • 50 CE points every 3 years, including at least one NTLA conference or symposium per year and at least 10 points of formal education
  • Annual audits each December and a 6-month grace period after expiration

Already a CTLP®? Existing designees have a 9-month grace period to a December renewal at the $150 renewal fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply?

Active NTLA members in good standing who are nominated by a current CTLP®. See the list of current designees.

What does the $350 fee cover?

Your application, review and designation for 3 years. NTLA University courses are purchased separately.

How are my points tracked?

It is an honor-based system. In NTLA University you list each activity with its name and date and sign an attestation, and your points are added right away. Keep your own records: NTLA takes attendance at every NTLA event and audits CTLP® records each December.

How do I keep my designation?

Earn 50 continuing education points every 3 years, attend at least one NTLA conference or symposium each year, and pay the $150 renewal fee. Misrepresentation may result in revocation. See renewal requirements.

Set Yourself Apart

A vetted, educated and ethical professional in an otherwise unregulated industry. Start your CTLP® today.

Questions? Call (561) 449-2484 or email info@ntla.org