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CPA (Certified Public Accountant) License in North Dakota

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license in ND. 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 North Dakota.

Step 1·Complete Education

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

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 6 required documents for your ND application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the Uniform CPA Examination.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

The path to becoming a licensed CPA (Certified Public Accountant) in North Dakota involves several key steps. First, complete an approved education program recognized by ND. Next, prepare for and successfully pass the Uniform CPA Examination. Finally, gather your documentation and submit your license application through the North Dakota state licensing portal.

Requirements

Before applying for a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license in North Dakota, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. ND requires candidates to have completed the necessary educational coursework and accumulated the required training hours. All applicants must pass a comprehensive background check and provide proof of identity. Successfully passing the Uniform CPA Examination is a non-negotiable requirement in North Dakota.

Fees & Costs

The initial application fee for a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license in North Dakota is approximately $500. This fee covers the processing of your application and initial license issuance. ND also charges an examination fee which is typically paid directly to the testing provider. Late application submissions in North Dakota may incur additional penalties of up to $125.

License Fee Calculator — CPA (Certified Public Accountant) in North Dakota

Base License Fee$500
Estimated Total$500

Renewal Process

Your CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license in North Dakota must be renewed every 2 years. The renewal fee in ND is $350. North Dakota requires completion of continuing education credits before renewal. Submit your renewal application at least 30 days before expiration to avoid late fees. Practicing with an expired license in ND can result in fines and disciplinary action.

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

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

Additional Information

Working as a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) in North Dakota offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. ND 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. North Dakota 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 North Dakota 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 ND CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize ND CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) FullAZ accepts ND CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license via reciprocity agreement.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts ND CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for ND license holders.
Delaware (DE) NoneDE does not recognize ND CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. Full re-application required.
California (CA) NoneCA does not recognize ND CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. Full re-application required.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize ND CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in North Dakota

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

Bismarck

600 E Boulevard Ave, Bismarck, ND 58505

(701) 328-9660

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

Fargo

200 3rd St N, Fargo, ND 58102

(701) 241-1310

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

Grand Forks

255 N 4th St, Grand Forks, ND 58203

(701) 746-2600

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

Minot

515 2nd Ave SW, Minot, ND 58701

(701) 857-4750

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

Mandan

205 2nd Ave NW, Mandan, ND 58554

(701) 667-3200

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

Official North Dakota Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the North Dakota 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.