Competence Practice Examinations (CPE) are examinations that chartered accountants sit and pass in order to obtain audit or non-audit practising certificates. In order to obtain a practising certificate, a chartered accountant shall make an application in the prescribed manner and form upon payment of the prescribed fee.

The reputation, relevance and value of the accountancy profession depends on the ability of its members to continually meet the expectations of stakeholders and provide a service appropriate to the needs of the Zambian economy within the global context. It is the responsibility of the Zambia Institute of Chartered Accountants (ZICA) to ensure that all Practising Accountants have the necessary professional competence at entry point to serve the public interest and the needs of the economy, and maintain and develop their competence thereafter.