CPA Licensing Requirements in Ohio


For Candidates in Ohio who have Passed the Uniform CPA Exam

Candidates interested in obtaining a CPA permit in Ohio must meet certain ethics, experience, and residency requirements:

Ethics Requirement

The Ohio Board of Accountancy requires all CPA candidates to complete a formal course in professional standards and responsibilities that highlight the accountancy laws and Board rules in Ohio. In addition, candidates will be subject to a criminal background check.

Experience Requirement

The Ohio Board of Accountancy requires all CPA candidates that have completed 150 semester hours of education to also have two years of work experience in accounting.

Those candidates that have not completed 150 semester hours of education must have four years of work experience to qualify for licensure. 

Residency Requirement

Residency in Ohio is not a legal requirement for CPA examination in this state, but is required for licensure.

Candidates must either be United States citizens or have a residency status that allows for in-state tuition status at an Ohio college or university.

Licensure Application Fee

The Ohio Board of Accountancy does not charge an application fee for submitting an “Original Certificate of Certified Public Accountant” form.

Continuing Professional Education Requirements

All CPAs working in Ohio must complete at least 120 continuing professional education (CPE) credits every three years as a condition of license renewal.