Can I work as a CPA before getting my license?

You cannot use the CPA title or sign off on work as a CPA before licensure. However, you can work in accounting roles and gain the experience required for licensure. Many candidates work in public accounting while completing exam and experience requirements.

What happens if I let my CPA license lapse?

A lapsed license can usually be reactivated by paying back fees, completing delinquent CPE, and filing reinstatement paperwork. However, you cannot represent yourself as a CPA while inactive. Some states have "retired" or "inactive" status options if youre not practicing.

Career Guide

CPA License Guide

How to get and maintain your CPA license

Requirements vary significantly by state

Most states require 150 credit hours

Experience requirements: 1-2 years supervised

Ethics exam required by most states

Passing the CPA exam is just one step—you also need to meet education, experience, and ethics requirements to obtain your license. This guide walks you through the complete licensing process.

Last updated: February 1, 2026

The Three Es

CPA licensure requires meeting Education, Examination, and Experience requirements.

Education: 150 credit hours with specific accounting courses
Examination: Pass all four CPA exam sections
Experience: 1-2 years of supervised accounting work
Some states require ethics exam or course

State-by-State Variations

Each state sets its own requirements. Research your target state carefully.

Credit hours: 120 to sit, 150 to license (most states)
Experience: 1 year (some states) to 2 years (others)
Supervisor: Must be CPA in most states
Residency: Some states require working or living in-state

The Licensing Process

After passing the exam, follow these steps to obtain your license.

Verify experience requirement is met
Pass ethics exam (AICPA or state-specific)
Complete license application with state board
Pay license fees and await approval
Receive certificate and wall license

Maintaining Your License

Active CPA licenses require ongoing continuing education and renewal.

CPE requirements: 40-120 hours per renewal period
Ethics CPE: Often required annually or per period
Renewal period: 1-3 years depending on state
Renewal fees: $50-$200 per period

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Frequently Asked Questions

The typical timeline is 2-3 years from starting the exam process. This includes 12-18 months to pass all exam sections, plus 1-2 years of experience (which can overlap with exam preparation). Final license processing takes 4-8 weeks after meeting all requirements.

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