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How to Become a Certified Public Accountant in Kentucky

Becoming a CPA in Kentucky takes education, an exam and an application. Here is the exact breakdown for Kentucky, sourced from the official board.

How do I become a CPA in Kentucky?

To become a CPA in Kentucky you must complete 150 semester hours including a bachelor's degree with 30+ accounting hours, pass the Uniform CPA Exam (AICPA), 4 sections; ethics exam in most states, meet the experience requirement (2,000 hours (1 year) of accounting experience under a CPA), cover the fees (Application fee $50-$150; exam fees vary by section). Licensing is handled by Kentucky Board of Accountancy. Confirm current rules with the official board before applying.

Source: Kentucky Board of AccountancyLast updated August 7, 2026

Requirements at a glance

Pre-licensing education
150 semester hours including a bachelor's degree with 30+ accounting hours
Exam requirements
Uniform CPA Exam (AICPA), 4 sections; ethics exam in most states
Experience
2,000 hours (1 year) of accounting experience under a CPA
Fees & costs
Application fee $50-$150; exam fees vary by section
Reciprocity
Mobility provisions generally allow licensed CPAs to cross state lines
Renewal
1-2 year cycle, 40-80 hours CPE
Source: Kentucky Board of AccountancyLast updated August 7, 2026

Exam prep for the Certified Public Accountant license exam

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FAQ

What are the education requirements to become a CPA in Kentucky?

150 semester hours including a bachelor's degree with 30+ accounting hours. This is the requirement published by the state.

What exam do I take to become a CPA in Kentucky?

You take the Uniform CPA Exam (AICPA), 4 sections; ethics exam in most states. Sign up through the approved testing vendor used by the state.

How much does a CPA license cost in Kentucky?

Application fee $50-$150; exam fees vary by section. Application, education and exam fees are set by the state board and can change.

How often do I renew my cpa license in Kentucky?

1-2 year cycle, 40-80 hours CPE.

All states for this license

Licensing rules can change. This page is a summary, not legal advice. Always confirm current requirements with the official Kentucky Board of Accountancy before applying.