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CPA (Certified Public Accountant) License in Massachusetts

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license in MA. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$500

Processing Time

6-10 Weeks

Exam Required

Uniform CPA Examination

Difficulty Level

High

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license in Massachusetts.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved CPA (Certified Public Accountant) training program in Massachusetts.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 6 required documents for your MA application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the Uniform CPA Examination.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Massachusetts licensing board and pay the $500 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 6-10 weeks in MA. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

Getting licensed as a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) in Massachusetts starts with meeting the educational prerequisites set by the MA licensing authority. Once you have completed your training, you will need to register for and pass the Uniform CPA Examination. After passing, submit your application along with all required documents to the Massachusetts state board.

Requirements

To qualify for CPA (Certified Public Accountant) licensure in Massachusetts, candidates must satisfy several prerequisites. MA mandates completion of an approved training program, successful passage of the Uniform CPA Examination, and a clean criminal background check. Additional requirements may include proof of residency and professional references as determined by the Massachusetts regulatory authority.

Fees & Costs

Massachusetts sets the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license application fee at $500. This is a one-time fee for new applicants in MA. Additional costs may include fingerprinting fees, background check fees, and exam registration. The total out-of-pocket cost for new licensees in Massachusetts typically ranges from $500 to $700.

License Fee Calculator — CPA (Certified Public Accountant) in Massachusetts

Base License Fee$500
Estimated Total$500

Renewal Process

Maintaining your CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license in Massachusetts requires timely renewal every 2 years. MA sets the renewal fee at $350. You must complete all required continuing education hours and submit proof to the Massachusetts board. Failure to renew on time may result in license suspension and reinstatement fees in MA.

License Expiry Calculator — CPA (Certified Public Accountant) in MA

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Massachusetts requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

Working as a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) in Massachusetts offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. MA has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. Massachusetts also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified CPA (Certified Public Accountant) professionals.

Document Checklist — CPA (Certified Public Accountant)

0 of 6 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Massachusetts CPA (Certified Public Accountant) License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) NoneAK does not recognize MA CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for MA license holders.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize MA CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) NoneAR does not recognize MA CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. Full re-application required.
Colorado (CO) FullCO accepts MA CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license via reciprocity agreement.
Delaware (DE) PartialDE requires additional exam or paperwork for MA license holders.
California (CA) FullCA accepts MA CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for MA license holders.

Where to File Locally in Massachusetts

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Boston

1000 Washington St, Boston, MA 02118

(617) 701-8600

Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Worcester

455 Main St, Worcester, MA 01608

(508) 799-1000

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Springfield

36 Court St, Springfield, MA 01103

(413) 787-6100

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Cambridge

795 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02139

(617) 349-4300

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Lowell

375 Merrimack St, Lowell, MA 01852

(978) 970-4000

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Official Massachusetts Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Massachusetts state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.