How To Become a CPA

Ever imagined signing off on financial statements that shape major business decisions? Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) makes that possible. From leading audits to guiding billion-dollar decisions, the CPA license gives you the authority and trust to stand out in the world of finance.

Introduction

Becoming a CPA is a rewarding path that combines professional credibility with strong career growth opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), about 124,200 openings for accountants and auditors are projected each year, on average, over the decade from 2024 to 2034. The CPA credential, issued by state boards of accountancy, is widely recognized as the highest standard in the accounting profession. It demonstrates your expertise in auditing, taxation, and financial management.

However, the process can seem complex, from education and exams to licensing rules that differ by state. This guide explains how to become a CPA step by step, outlines how long it takes, and provides specific insights into Texas CPA requirements and California CPA requirements.

How To Become a CPA

The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is one of the most respected credentials in the accounting field. It allows professionals to perform audits, prepare financial statements, and represent clients before the IRS.

Here’s a simple breakdown of how to become a CPA:

How Long Does It Take To Become a CPA

The entire process to become a CPA typically takes around 7 years, which includes education and exam preparation:

• 4 years: Undergraduate degree (accounting or related field)
• 1 year: Additional coursework to meet the 150-hour requirement
• 1-2 years: Passing all CPA Exam sections and fulfilling experience requirements

However, this timeline can vary depending on your study pace and state-specific rules.

CPA Exam Requirements

Each state sets its own CPA exam requirements, but the general criteria are similar across the United States:

Education:

1. 150 semester hours of college credit
2. Accounting, business law, and ethics courses
   

Exam Application:

1. Submit transcripts to your state board or NASBA
2. Pay the exam fees (typically between $900 and $1,200, $344.80 per section as of 2025)

Identification and Residency:

• Proof of citizenship or residency (varies by state)
  

Experience:

• 1-2 years of verified accounting experience under the supervision of a CPA

To ensure you meet all the CPA exam requirements, visit NASBA’s CPA Exam portal.

Texas CPA Requirements

The Texas State Board of Public Accountancy (TSBPA) outlines specific Texas CPA requirements for candidates.

Here’s what you need to qualify for the CPA exam in Texas:

Education:

• 💰 At least 150 semester hours from an accredited university
• 💰 21 hours of upper-level accounting, which includes 2 hours of accounting or tax research
• 💰 24 hours of business courses, including 2 hours of accounting or business communications
• 💰 Degree must include ethics and business communication coursework

Exam:

• 💰 Apply through the TSBPA website
• 💰 Pass all four CPA Exam sections

Experience:

• 💰 At least one year (2,000 hours) of relevant work verified by a licensed CPA

Ethics:

• 💰 Pass the AICPA Ethics Exam or the Texas-specific ethics module

Meeting all Texas CPA requirements ensures eligibility for one of the most respected licenses in the accounting field.

California CPA Requirements

The California Board of Accountancy (CBA) manages all CPA requirements in California. While similar to other states, California has unique course and experience rules:

Education:

• ✔️ 150 semester units, including:
  • 📜 24 units in accounting subjects
  • 📜 24 units in business-related subjects
  • 📜 20 units in accounting study
  • 📜 10 units in ethics
    
• ✔️ Visit the California Board of Accountancy for details.
  

Experience:

• 📜 12 months of general accounting experience verified by a CPA
  

Exam:

• 📜 Pass all CPA Exam sections within an 18-month window, which begins once you pass your first exam.
  

Ethics:

• 📜 In many states, including California Board of Accountancy (CBA), you must complete an ethics requirement as part of the CPA‐licensing process. For example, California previously required the Professional Ethics (PETH) Exam, which tested knowledge of professional responsibility, ethics, and state‐specific accounting laws. 
• 📜 The ethics requirement exists to ensure that licensed CPAs uphold standards of professional conduct, protect the public interest, and apply ethical decision-making in real-world accounting and auditing scenarios  

Note: As of July 1, 2024, California has replaced the PETH Exam for initial licensure with a CBA-approved Regulatory Review Course. Applicants applying for their first license still need an ethics component, but can now meet it via this review course. 

After fulfilling the California CPA requirements, candidates can earn a license recognized across multiple industries nationwide.

To become a Certified Public Accountant is a long but fulfilling journey that can lead to a stable and respected career. By understanding how to get your CPA, meeting all CPA exam requirements, and satisfying your state’s criteria, whether in Texas, California, or elsewhere, you can set yourself apart in the competitive world of accounting.

FAQ’s