How to Become a CPA

There are very specific requirements to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). These requirements vary from state to state slightly, but for the most part are very much the same. The National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) is a great resource to determine each states requirements. A typical path to becoming a CPA is outlined here.

Things You'll Need

• Transcripts for college credits
• CPA Examination Application
• CPA Application
• Passport Photos
• Money orders or cashiers checks for fees
• Letters of Recommendation

Instructions

1. Complete a baccalaureate degree with a minimum of 24 hours of accounting courses. Additionally, there must be at least 18 hours of related classes such as business law and management.

2. Pass the four sections of the CPA examination. In order to sit for the CPA exam you must provide the required information to the State Board of Accountancy which includes in most cases college transcripts, passport photos, completed application and exam fee.

3. Pass the American Institute of CPAs professional ethics exam with a score of 90 percent. This can be done online

4. Send letters of recommendation to the appropriate State Board of Accountancy. Usually around five letters of recommendation will be required with one or two actually coming from a CPA.

5. Submit transcripts from a college showing completion of 150 credit hours, including 30 hours of accounting.

6. Provide a work history for the last ten years. If the CPA applicant has been out of high school less than ten years then a work history from graduation will be sufficient.

7. Provide certification of experience for all jobs in the CPA industry. Each State Board of Accountancy will have different requirements in regards to professional experience, so be sure to check with the appropriate Board to properly meet this requirement.

8. Submit the application, fees and a passport type photo.

Tips & Warnings

• This process is very intensive and will take many years of dedication. In the end the CPA certificate is definitely worth the effort.

Resources

• National Association of State Boards of Accountancy official website