CPA License Requirements by State
Every state and the District of Columbia license certified public accountants through state boards of accountancy. Requirements are remarkably uniform: 150 semester hours of education, one year of work experience, the Uniform CPA Exam, and continuing education to renew. The exact hours, fees and exams are set by each state's board - here is the state-by-state breakdown, sourced from official licensing authorities.
Last updated August 7, 2026. Licensing rules change - confirm with the official board before applying.
National exam basics
The CPA Exam is a single national exam (AICPA/NASBA); each state board of accountancy sets education and experience rules and issues the license.
CPA License requirements by state
Exam prep courses
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FAQ
What education do I need to become a CPA?
All states require 150 semester hours, typically a bachelor's degree plus 30 additional hours, including specific accounting and business coursework often totaling 24-30 accounting hours.
What is on the CPA Exam?
The Uniform CPA Exam has four sections: Auditing and Attestation, Business Environment and Concepts, Regulation, and Financial Accounting and Reporting. Most states also require a separate ethics exam for the license.
How much work experience is required?
States require about 2,000 hours (one year) of accounting experience under the supervision of a licensed CPA, typically verified by your supervisor before the license is issued.
How do I keep my CPA license active?
Licenses renew every 1-2 years and require continuing professional education, typically 40 hours per year or 80 hours per two-year cycle, with a minimum ethics requirement.