Montana CPA Requirements
Everything you need to become a CPA in Montana
Key Facts
- ✓120-credit pathway available since January 1, 2026 (SB 166)
- ✓Does not require SSN (popular for international candidates)
- ✓CPA Exam window extended to 30 months
- ✓2 years experience required under 120-credit pathway
- ✓40 hours of CPE required annually
*Montana offers a 120-credit pathway (SB 166) with additional experience requirements. See Licensure Pathways below for details.
International Candidates: Montana does not require a Social Security Number (SSN), making it a popular choice for international CPA candidates.
Education & Experience Requirements
Verify Before Applying: Requirements shown are for informational purposes and may have changed. Always confirm current requirements with the official state board before beginning your application.
Education Requirements
- •Must include auditing course
Experience Requirements
- ✓Public accounting
- ✓Private industry
- ✓Government
Exam Eligibility
Licensing & CPE
Licensure Pathways
Traditional 150-Credit Pathway
- •Bachelor's degree with accounting concentration + 30 additional credits
- •1 year of qualifying accounting experience
120-Credit + Experience Pathway
Effective: January 1, 2026
- •Bachelor's degree with accounting concentration
- •2 years of qualifying accounting experience
- •Can sit for exam with 120 credits
- •CPA Exam window extended to 30 months
Post-Bachelor's Degree Pathway
Effective: January 1, 2026
- •Post-bachelor's degree with accounting concentration
- •1 year of qualifying accounting experience
Montana State Board of Accountancy
Montana Board of Public Accountants
Application Tips
- 1.Verify current requirements on the official state board website before applying
- 2.Have official transcripts sent directly from your educational institution
- 3.Allow 4-6 weeks for application processing
- 4.Keep copies of all submitted documents for your records
Montana CPE & License Renewal
Frequently Asked Questions
Education Programs for Montana
2 programs meet CPA education requirements in Montana. Browse by category to find the right fit.
Related Resources
Planning your CPA journey in Montana? These guides can help.
Ready to Start Studying?
Find the perfect CPA review course for your Montana CPA journey.