CPA candidates who graduated college with at least 150 credits must complete one year (1,600 hours) of work experience through employment in government, industry, academia, or public practice within five years of the date you apply for your license.
For those who passed at least one part of the CPA Exam before Dec. 31, 2011, other guidelines apply (see below).
Qualifying work experience includes providing any type of service or advice involving the use of:
The caliber of the experience must be satisfactory to the State Board of Accountancy and verified by an individual who is currently licensed to practice as a CPA in Pennsylvania or another jurisdiction.
Qualifying education requirements to obtain a CPA license:
Those who passed at least one part of the CPA Exam before Dec. 31, 2011, have two options:
1. Bachelor's degree – 120 Hours | Two Years
A candidate can become licensed with 120 credit hours and two years (3,200 hours) of work experience through employment in government, industry, academia, or public practice within
10 years of the date you apply for your license.
2. Master's or other post-graduate degree – 150 Hours | One Year
A candidate can become licensed with 150 credit hours and one year (1,600 hours) of work experience through employment in government, industry, academia, or public
practice within 10 years of the date you apply for your license.
Qualifying work experience – see above.
Qualifying education requirements to obtain a CPA license:
Have you passed all four parts of the CPA Exam in the past year? If so, you qualify for a free year of PICPA membership.
The State Board issues Pennsylvania CPA licenses once all examination and work requirements have been met. Contact the board for licensing inquiries.