How to Become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
To become a certified public accountant, you must complete the required education, pass the CPA exam, and satisfy your state board of accountancy's licensing requirements. These professionals are trusted financial advisors who:
Prepare and file tax returns, and represent clients before the IRS.
Conduct audits and issue certified opinions on financial statements.
Provide financial planning, risk management, and compliance guidance.
Demand for skilled professionals in finance remains strong. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for accountants and auditors to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034. Earning a CPA can significantly expand your career options in public accounting, corporate finance, and beyond.
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How Do You Become a Certified Public Accountant?
This is a structured process. Here is a breakdown to help you get started:
Educational Requirements
The first step in the accountant certification process is education. State boards generally mandate at least a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance. CPA licensing requirements typically include 150 credit hours, exceeding the standard 120 for a four-year degree.
Many students reach this total by completing a master's program or taking extra courses. Key financial accounting studies cover:
Auditing
Taxation
Business law
Ethics
Choosing a program accredited by a recognized accounting body can make the licensing process smoother later on.
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Understand CPA Licensing Requirements
Requirements vary, so consult your state board early. This typically includes a combination of:
Education
Exam completion
Supervised work experience
Some boards allow candidates to sit for the CPA exam before completing all 150 credit hours, while others don't.
Pass the CPA Exam
The Uniform CPA Exam is standardized nationwide and follows the CPA Evolution model, effective since 2024. The core sections (required for all candidates) include:
Auditing and Attestation
Financial Accounting and Reporting
Regulation
Candidates must choose one discipline section. These include:
Business Analysis and Reporting
Information Systems and Controls
Tax Compliance and Planning
All four sections must be passed within an 18-month rolling window that begins once a candidate passes their first section. Due to the exam's difficulty, consistent study and focused CPA exam preparation are essential.
Get Relevant Experience
Most boards require one to two years of supervised work under a licensed CPA. Some specifically require this experience in public accounting, while others also accept relevant corporate finance roles. This lets you apply classroom knowledge to real financial situations and prepares you for the responsibilities of certification.
Meet Licensing Requirements
Every board has its own rules for CPA licensing beyond education and work experience. These may include:
Passing an ethics exam
Completing a background check
Providing proof of supervised work history
Why Is Continuing Education Important for Maintaining Your CPA License?
Once you have achieved your CPA certification, it's essential to stay current. Most boards require CPAs to complete continuing education courses regularly. This ensures that you maintain your knowledge and skills in this ever-evolving field, further enhancing your professionalism.
Embarking on Your Certified Public Accountant Journey
The path towards becoming a certified public accountant may initially seem challenging. However, with determination and the right resources, you can achieve this prestigious certification that will set you apart in the finance world.
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