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CPA (Certified Public Accountant) License in Michigan

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license in MI. 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 Michigan.

Step 1·Complete Education

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

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 6 required documents for your MI application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the Uniform CPA Examination.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

If you are looking to start your career as a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) in Michigan, the licensing process begins with education. MI mandates specific coursework before you can sit for the Uniform CPA Examination. Upon passing the exam, you can proceed to file your application with the appropriate Michigan regulatory board.

Requirements

The Michigan licensing board sets clear requirements for aspiring CPA (Certified Public Accountant) professionals. These include age verification (minimum 18), completion of state-approved education, and passing the Uniform CPA Examination. MI also requires a thorough background investigation and may request additional documentation depending on your specific circumstances.

Fees & Costs

The cost of becoming a licensed CPA (Certified Public Accountant) in Michigan starts at $500 for the application fee. MI requires this fee to be paid at the time of application submission. Factor in additional expenses such as exam fees, background check costs, and any required continuing education. Late renewal penalties in Michigan can add up to $175 to your costs.

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

Base License Fee$500
Estimated Total$500

Renewal Process

License renewal for CPA (Certified Public Accountant) professionals in Michigan occurs on a 2-year cycle. MI charges a renewal fee of $350 and mandates continuing education as part of the renewal process. It is recommended to begin the renewal process in Michigan at least 60 days before your license expires to ensure uninterrupted practice.

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

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

Additional Information

Working as a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) in Michigan offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. MI 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. Michigan 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 Michigan 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) PartialAK requires additional exam or paperwork for MI license holders.
Alabama (AL) FullAL accepts MI CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license via reciprocity agreement.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for MI license holders.
Arkansas (AR) PartialAR requires additional exam or paperwork for MI license holders.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize MI CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) PartialDE requires additional exam or paperwork for MI license holders.
California (CA) FullCA accepts MI CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) FullFL accepts MI CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license via reciprocity agreement.

Where to File Locally in Michigan

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

Lansing

611 W Ottawa St, Lansing, MI 48933

(517) 241-0199

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

Detroit

2 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226

(313) 224-3400

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

Grand Rapids

300 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

(616) 456-3000

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

Ann Arbor

301 E Huron St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

(734) 794-6000

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

Flint

1101 S Saginaw St, Flint, MI 48502

(810) 766-7346

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

Official Michigan Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Michigan 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.