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CPA (Certified Public Accountant) License in Rhode Island

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license in RI. 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 Rhode Island.

Step 1·Complete Education

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

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 6 required documents for your RI application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the Uniform CPA Examination.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

If you are looking to start your career as a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) in Rhode Island, the licensing process begins with education. RI 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 Rhode Island regulatory board.

Requirements

Before applying for a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license in Rhode Island, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. RI 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 Rhode Island.

Fees & Costs

Obtaining your CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license in Rhode Island requires a financial investment. The base licensing fee in RI is $500, which includes application processing and credential verification. Exam registration fees are separate and vary by testing center. Budget for approximately $650 total when accounting for all associated costs in Rhode Island.

License Fee Calculator — CPA (Certified Public Accountant) in Rhode Island

Base License Fee$500
Estimated Total$500

Renewal Process

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

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

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

Additional Information

Rhode Island takes professional licensing seriously, and the CPA (Certified Public Accountant) field is no exception. The state board in RI regularly updates its requirements to align with industry standards and protect public safety. As a licensed CPA (Certified Public Accountant) in Rhode Island, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards and stay current with developments in your field. The RI 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 Rhode Island 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 RI license holders.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for RI license holders.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize RI CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) NoneAR does not recognize RI CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. Full re-application required.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for RI license holders.
Delaware (DE) NoneDE does not recognize RI CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license. Full re-application required.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for RI license holders.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for RI license holders.

Where to File Locally in Rhode Island

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

Providence

1511 Pontiac Ave, Cranston, RI 02920

(401) 462-9500

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Warwick

3275 Post Rd, Warwick, RI 02886

(401) 738-2000

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Cranston

869 Park Ave, Cranston, RI 02910

(401) 461-1000

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Pawtucket

137 Roosevelt Ave, Pawtucket, RI 02860

(401) 728-0500

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Newport

43 Broadway, Newport, RI 02840

(401) 845-5300

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Official Rhode Island Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Rhode Island 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.