How to Get Your CPA License?

By IIC Lakshya

17 Jan 2026

The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is one of the most prestigious and globally respected credentials in the field of accounting and finance. Earning a CPA license is not just about passing an exam; it is a structured journey that combines education, examination, experience, and ethics. For students and professionals aiming to build long-term careers in audit, taxation, financial reporting, advisory, and corporate finance, understanding the complete CPA licensing process is crucial.

This guide explains how to get your CPA license step by step, making the process clear and practical for aspirants planning to pursue CPA from India or other international locations.

What is the CPA License?

The CPA license is issued by individual U.S. state boards of accountancy, not directly by a central authority. While the CPA exam is common across all states, licensing requirements such as education credits and work experience can vary slightly from one state to another.

A CPA license authorizes professionals to:

Sign audit reports
Practice public accounting
Work in senior finance, accounting, and compliance roles
Gain global credibility in multinational organizations

Because of its regulatory authority and professional recognition, the CPA license is often considered a career-defining qualification rather than just an academic credential.

Step 1: Meet the Educational Requirements

The first step toward obtaining a CPA license is fulfilling the education eligibility criteria set by the chosen U.S. state board.

Most state boards require:

120 credit hours to appear for the CPA exam
150 credit hours to obtain the CPA license

These credits typically include:

Financial accounting
Auditing
Taxation
Business law
Economics
Finance and management subjects

For international candidates, commerce graduates and postgraduates usually meet a large portion of these requirements. Any credit shortfall can often be fulfilled through bridge courses or additional certifications.

Choosing the right state board at this stage is critical, as it directly impacts eligibility, documentation, and licensing timelines.

Step 2: Choose a State Board and Apply for Evaluation

Once educational qualifications are aligned, candidates must select a U.S. state board and submit their academic documents for evaluation.

This process involves:

Submitting transcripts
Credential evaluation by approved agencies
Confirmation of exam eligibility

The evaluation ensures that your education aligns with U.S. accounting standards. After approval, candidates receive authorization to register for the CPA exam sections.

This step forms the foundation of your CPA journey, making accuracy and documentation extremely important.

Step 3: Pass All Four Sections of the CPA Exam

Clearing the CPA exam is the most challenging and time-intensive part of the process. The exam consists of four sections, each testing different professional competencies.

The CPA exam sections include:

FAR (Financial Accounting and Reporting) – financial statements, GAAP, IFRS
AUD (Auditing and Attestation) – audit procedures, ethics, internal controls
REG (Regulation) – taxation, business law, ethics
Discipline Paper – specialization in advanced accounting, tax, or information systems

Candidates must pass all four sections within a rolling 18-month window. The exam follows a continuous testing model, allowing flexible scheduling throughout the year.

Success in the CPA exam requires strong conceptual clarity, disciplined preparation, and consistent revision.

Step 4: Complete the Required Work Experience

Passing the CPA exam alone does not grant the license. Candidates must also complete relevant work experience, usually ranging from 1 to 2 years, depending on the state board.

The experience must typically:

Be in accounting, auditing, taxation, or finance
Be supervised or verified by a licensed CPA
Demonstrate application of accounting knowledge

This requirement ensures that CPA license holders possess not only technical knowledge but also practical professional competence.

Step 5: Clear the Ethics Examination

Many state boards require candidates to pass an Ethics Exam, which tests understanding of:

Professional conduct
Independence standards
Regulatory responsibilities
Ethical decision-making

This exam reinforces the CPA’s role as a trusted professional responsible for financial integrity and public confidence.

Step 6: Apply for the CPA License

After completing education, exams, experience, and ethics requirements, candidates can formally apply for the CPA license.

This step involves:

Submitting experience verification
Paying licensing fees
Completing background and compliance checks

Once approved, the state board issues the CPA license, granting the legal right to use the CPA designation.

Maintaining Your CPA License

Earning the CPA license is not the end of the journey. Licensed CPAs must complete Continuing Professional Education (CPE) every year to stay updated with changes in accounting standards, laws, and professional practices.

This ensures that CPAs remain relevant, competent, and compliant throughout their careers.

Why the CPA License Is Worth the Effort

The CPA license opens doors to:

Senior finance and leadership roles
Global job mobility
Higher earning potential
Authority and credibility in accounting practice

For many professionals, CPA becomes a long-term asset that strengthens career stability and growth across industries and geographies.

FAQs: How to Get Your CPA License

Can Indian students get a CPA license?

Yes. Indian commerce graduates and professionals can pursue CPA by meeting education, exam, and experience requirements through a suitable state board.