A complete, step-by-step guide from deciding to pursue the CPA to holding your license. Everything you need to know — education, application, studying, testing, experience, and licensure.
Updated April 2026 — Reflects 2026 CPA Evolution exam format and new state pathways
Every state requires at least a bachelor's degree with coursework in accounting. Traditionally, most states required 150 semester hours (typically a bachelor's plus a master's degree or extra coursework). However, a major shift is underway.
2025–2026 Landmark Change: New 120-Hour Pathway
In May 2025, the AICPA and NASBA approved a new model pathway allowing CPA licensure with a bachelor's degree (120 credits) plus an accounting concentration and two years of experience. Multiple states have already adopted this pathway or are in the process of doing so. This eliminates the need for a fifth year of college in participating states.
What you need (check your state below):
Accounting concentration typically means 24–33 credit hours of accounting courses and 24–27 credit hours of general business courses, but exact requirements vary by state.
CPA licensure is governed at the state level — each state board of accountancy sets its own rules. You apply through NASBA's CPA Central portal and your state board.
Application process:
Your NTS is valid for a limited time (typically 6 months). Schedule your exam sections at a Prometric testing center before it expires.
The CPA Exam follows the Core + Discipline model introduced in January 2024. You must pass all three Core sections and one Discipline section of your choice.
GAAP, financial statements, government & NFP accounting
50 MCQs + 7 TBSs • 4 hours • 50/50 weight
Audit procedures, ethics, evidence, reporting, SSAE/SSARS
50 MCQs + 7 TBSs • 4 hours • 50/50 weight
Federal tax (individual, business, property), ethics, business law
50 MCQs + 7 TBSs • 4 hours • 50/50 weight
BAR (Business Analysis & Reporting) — extends FAR
ISC (Information Systems & Controls) — extends AUD
TCP (Tax Compliance & Planning) — extends REG
4 hours each • Quarterly testing windows
Key Exam Rules
Most candidates spend 300–400 hours total studying for all four sections. A typical timeline is 12–18 months, studying one section at a time.
Recommended study approach:
Consider pairing your Discipline section with the related Core section to study them back-to-back while concepts are fresh (FAR+BAR, AUD+ISC, REG+TCP).
Schedule each section at a Prometric testing center when you feel prepared. You'll bring two forms of ID, and the center provides a calculator and scratch paper.
On exam day:
Exam costs: Approximately $1,000–$1,500 total for all four sections (application fees + exam fees + NTS fees, varies by state). Budget for retakes if needed.
Most states require 1–2 years of relevant professional experience verified by a licensed CPA. This experience can often be completed before, during, or after passing the exam.
Qualifying experience includes work in:
The supervising CPA must verify your experience on the state board's required form. Under the new 120-hour pathway (where adopted), the experience requirement is 2 years instead of 1.
Many states require the AICPA Professional Ethics Exam (an open-book, self-study exam) or a state-specific ethics course as a final step before licensure.
Final steps:
Requirements vary significantly by state. Search for your state below to see the specific education, exam, and experience requirements. Many states are actively updating their rules — always verify directly with your state board before making decisions.
Data reflects requirements as of early 2026. Several states have legislation pending. Always confirm with your state board at nasba.org/stateboards.