Certified Public Accountant License in Pennsylvania
Quick Answer
To become a CPA in Pennsylvania, you can qualify by exam, reciprocity, or a degree plus 2 years of experience. CE is required for renewal. The Pennsylvania Accountancy Board oversees licensing. Estimated total costs are approximately $2,175.
- Exam
- Uniform CPA Exam (AICPA/NASBA)
- Total Cost
- $2,175 (est.)
- Timeline
- 5-7 years (including degree)
- Renewal
- Every 2 years
Requirements
Certified Public Accountant certification in Pennsylvania
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $100
- Exam Fee
- $1,000
- Renewal Fee
- $75
- Total Estimated Cost
- $2,175
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Certified Public Accountant license in Pennsylvania. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Pennsylvania licensing board.
Certified Public Accountant Salary in Pennsylvania
Entry Level
$48,850
Median
$77,330
Experienced
$128,300
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Certified Public Accountant in Pennsylvania.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — Uniform CPA Exam (AICPA/NASBA)
- 3
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$100.
- 4
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 5-7 years (including degree).
Certified Public Accountant Licensing in Pennsylvania: What to Know
Pennsylvania allows CPA licensure by reciprocity, examination, or a combination of a degree plus 2 years of qualified experience. A degree is required, CE is required for renewal, and the Uniform CPA Exam must be passed. The Accountancy Board under the Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs oversees licensing. Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are major accounting markets, with healthcare, financial services, and manufacturing driving CPA demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Certified Public Accountant license cost in Pennsylvania?
- The estimated total cost is $2,175, including application fees, exam fees ($1,000), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Certified Public Accountant license in Pennsylvania?
- The process typically takes 5-7 years (including degree), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Certified Public Accountant license in Pennsylvania?
- You need to pass the Uniform CPA Exam (AICPA/NASBA). Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Certified Public Accountant requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.