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CPA (Certified Public Accountant) License in Pennsylvania

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

Step 1·Complete Education

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

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 6 required documents for your PA application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the Uniform CPA Examination.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

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

Requirements

Pennsylvania has specific requirements for CPA (Certified Public Accountant) licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to provide accounting, auditing, and tax services. A clean background check is mandatory in PA, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The Uniform CPA Examination must be passed with a minimum score set by the Pennsylvania board.

Fees & Costs

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

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

Base License Fee$500
Estimated Total$500

Renewal Process

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

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

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

Additional Information

Pennsylvania takes professional licensing seriously, and the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) field is no exception. The state board in PA regularly updates its requirements to align with industry standards and protect public safety. As a licensed CPA (Certified Public Accountant) in Pennsylvania, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards and stay current with developments in your field. The PA licensing board provides resources and support to help professionals meet their obligations.

Document Checklist — CPA (Certified Public Accountant)

0 of 6 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Pennsylvania 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 PA license holders.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for PA license holders.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize PA CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) NoneAR does not recognize PA CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. Full re-application required.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for PA license holders.
Delaware (DE) NoneDE does not recognize PA CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. Full re-application required.
California (CA) NoneCA does not recognize PA CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. Full re-application required.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for PA license holders.

Where to File Locally in Pennsylvania

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

Harrisburg

2601 N 3rd St, Harrisburg, PA 17110

(717) 783-3397

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

Philadelphia

1400 Spring Garden St, Philadelphia, PA 19130

(215) 686-1776

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

Pittsburgh

414 Grant St, Pittsburgh, PA 15219

(412) 255-2626

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

Allentown

435 Hamilton St, Allentown, PA 18101

(610) 437-7500

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

Erie

626 State St, Erie, PA 16501

(814) 870-1234

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

Official Pennsylvania Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Pennsylvania 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.