Meet the CPA eligibility requirements in your state/jurisdiction (education, residency, and other criteria)
Complete the required education (typically 150 semester hours, including accounting and business coursework)
Earn a bachelor’s degree (or higher) with required accounting/business credit hours
Complete any required additional coursework if you do not reach the 150-hour requirement
Choose an approved pathway for the 150 hours (e.g., master’s degree, additional undergraduate credits, or approved programs)
Complete required ethics education (if required by your jurisdiction)
Apply to sit for the CPA exam with your state board
Study for the CPA exam using approved study materials and course providers
Pass all CPA exam sections (in the required order, if applicable)
Submit required documents and fees for exam admission (if not already done during application)
Pass the CPA exam within the allowed testing window (as defined by your board)
Complete any required work experience (commonly 1–2 years), under an approved supervisor/employer
Document your experience requirements and submit verification to your board
Pass any required additional exams or assessments (e.g., jurisdiction-specific ethics exam)
Apply for CPA licensure after meeting education, exam, ethics, and experience requirements
Maintain your CPA license through continuing professional education (CPE) and renewals
Stay compliant with state board rules, including ethics and reporting requirements