How to Become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification is perhaps the most highly regarded credential in accounting and finance. Whether you want to work for a multinational firm, have your own practice, or be a senior finance executive in a company, becoming a CPA can lead to well-paying and valued positions in industries.


If you're considering a career as a CPA, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from eligibility to licensing.

What is a CPA?

A CPA, or Certified Public Accountant, is a licensed accounting professional authorized to perform a wide range of accounting services, including audits, tax preparation, and financial consulting. The CPA license is issued by the Board of Accountancy in each U.S. state and is recognized worldwide for its credibility and standards.

Why Become a CPA?

Earning a CPA license not only enhances your knowledge and skills but also significantly improves your job prospects and salary potential. Here are some top benefits:

  • Global Recognition

  • Higher Earning Potential

  • Career Advancement

  • Job Security in Recession-Resistant Fields

  • Opportunities in Auditing, Taxation, Finance, and Consulting

Why Pursue a CPA Course?

A CPA course equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to pass the CPA exam and meet licensing requirements. It covers subjects like financial accounting, auditing, business law, taxation, and ethics. Here’s why a CPA course is worth your investment:

  • Global recognition and respect

  • Increased earning potential

  • More career opportunities in Big Four firms, MNCs, and government agencies

  • Authority to sign audit reports and represent clients before the IRS (in the U.S.)

Step-by-Step Process to Become a CPA

Step 1: Meet the Educational Requirements

To sit for the CPA exam, you need to fulfill the "150-hour rule." Most states in the U.S. require candidates to have:

  • A Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field

  • A total of 150 credit hours of post-secondary education (This usually means pursuing a Master’s degree or additional coursework after a bachelor's)

Some international candidates may need to get their credentials evaluated by authorized bodies to determine eligibility.

Step 2: Choose Your State Board

CPA requirements slightly vary from state to state. It’s crucial to select a U.S. state board where:

  • You meet the eligibility criteria

  • The licensing process aligns with your career goals

  • You understand the residency or work requirements, if any

Many international candidates prefer states like Colorado, Guam, and Alaska due to more flexible criteria.

Step 3: Apply for the CPA Exam

After fulfilling the educational requirements, register for sitting the CPA exam with the appropriate State Board of Accountancy or a facilitator such as NASBA (National Association of State Boards of Accountancy). You'll have to:

  • Submit academic transcripts

  • Pay exam fees

  • Receive the Notice to Schedule (NTS)

Step 4: Pass the Uniform CPA Examination

The CPA exam consists of four sections:

  1. Auditing and Attestation (AUD)

  2. Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)

  3. Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)

  4. Regulation (REG)

You need to pass all four sections within 18 months. A minimum score of 75 is needed on each section.

Effective study plans, practice tests, and choosing the right review course can significantly improve your chances of passing.

Step 5: Gain Work Experience

All states need 1–2 years of work experience that is relevant to the profession and under the guidance of a CPA license holder. This experience needs to be in public accounting, taxation, auditing, or in financial advisory positions.

Document this work properly, as verification by your employer or mentor is a part of the licensing process.

Step 6: Ethics Exam (Optional but Often Required)

Some states mandate that you pass an Ethics Exam given by the AICPA or some other state authority. It helps you know the professional conduct expectations of CPAs.

Step 7: Apply for Your CPA License

Once you have passed the CPA exam and completed the work experience requirements (and ethics exam, if necessary), you can apply for your CPA license. You'll need to:

  • Submit proof of education

  • Verify work experience

  • Provide exam scores and ethics results

  • Pay the licensing fee

Once approved, you become a Certified Public Accountant.

Maintaining the CPA License

Becoming a CPA isn’t a one-time achievement. To maintain your license, you must:

  • Complete Continuing Professional Education (CPE) hours annually or bi-annually

  • Stay updated with changing accounting laws and practices

  • Renew your license according to your state board's rules

Final Thoughts

Becoming a CPA is a rewarding but rigorous journey. It requires dedication, time, and discipline—but the benefits are well worth the effort. From higher income and global recognition to job stability and leadership roles, the CPA credential can transform your professional life.

If you are passionate about finance, accounting, and making informed business decisions, the CPA designation could be your ideal path to success.

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