Tax Talk & Business Tips

Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is one of the most respected and rigorous paths in the accounting profession.

While many people are familiar with the term CPA, fewer understand the full process required to earn the designation. Here’s a clear look at what it takes to become a licensed CPA.

Step 1: Meet the Education Requirements

The journey begins with education.

In most states, CPA candidates are required to complete 150 credit hours of college coursework. This typically includes a bachelor’s degree along with additional accounting and business classes.

Many candidates pursue a master’s degree or supplemental coursework to meet this requirement.

This foundation ensures a strong understanding of financial reporting, taxation, auditing, and business concepts before moving forward.

Step 2: Apply and Get Approved to Sit for the Exam

Once the education requirement is met, candidates apply through their state’s accounting board.

After approval, they receive a Notice to Schedule (NTS), which allows them to book their exams at an authorized testing center.

At this stage, candidates officially begin the CPA journey.

Step 3: Pass the CPA Exam

The CPA exam consists of four sections, each covering a key area of the profession:

• Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
• Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
• Regulation (REG)
• A discipline section (ISC, BAR, or TCP)

Each section is scored on a scale of 0 to 99, with a minimum score of 75 required to pass.

Candidates must pass all four sections within an 18-month window, making time management and preparation critical.

Passing the CPA exam is one of the most challenging parts of the process and represents a major professional achievement.

Step 4: Gain Professional Experience

In addition to the exams, candidates must gain relevant work experience.

Most states require one to two years of experience under the supervision of a licensed CPA.

This step allows candidates to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios, working with financial statements, tax filings, and client needs. It’s where technical understanding becomes practical expertise.

Step 5: Complete the Ethics Requirement

Many states also require candidates to complete an ethics exam.

This portion focuses on professional standards, ethical decision-making, and responsibilities that come with handling financial information.

Step 6: Apply for CPA Licensure

Once all requirements are met, candidates submit an application for licensure through their state board.

This typically includes:

• Proof of passing all CPA exam sections
• Verified work experience
• Ethics exam results (if required)

After review and approval, the candidate is officially licensed.

Step 7: Become a Licensed CPA

At this point, the individual can officially use the title:

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

This designation reflects a combination of education, examination, real-world experience, and professional accountability.

Why the Process Matters

The CPA designation is designed to ensure that professionals are not only knowledgeable, but also experienced and ethical in their work.

For clients and business owners, this means working with someone who has met a high standard across multiple areas—not just in theory, but in practice.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a CPA is not a single achievement, but a structured process that builds both knowledge and professional judgment over time. Each step plays an important role in preparing accountants to serve their clients with confidence, accuracy, and integrity.

 If you’re looking to work with a team that values that same level of expertise and care, we’d be happy to connect.