Overview

For those aspiring to become a Certified Public Accountant in Florida, understanding the specific requirements of the state is crucial. Florida, like other U.S. states, has its unique set of rules and criteria for CPA licensure. This guide aims to clarify these requirements and the process involved in becoming a Florida CPA.

Educational and Exam Requirements

Florida mandates a comprehensive educational background for CPA candidates:

• Before the CPA Exam: Candidates must complete 120 semester hours or 180 quarter hours, including 24 semester hours in upper-division accounting and 24 semester hours in upper-division general business courses.

• For CPA Licensure: A total of 150 semester hours is required, with 30 semester hours in upper-division accounting and 36 semester hours in general business courses.

Candidates must score at least 75 on each of the four sections of the CPA Exam. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) or NASBA provides the scores. It's essential to pass all sections within an 18-month window to qualify for licensure.

Work Experience

Prospective CPAs in Florida need to accumulate one year of work experience. This can be achieved through a minimum of 20 hours per week over two years or 40 hours per week over one year. The experience must involve accounting, attest, compilation, management advisory, financial advisory, tax, or consulting services.

Licensing Process

Upon passing the CPA Exam, candidates must apply for the CPA license through NASBA. This should be done within three years of passing the exam to prevent the expiration of scores. The license application process involves:

• Initial Application Fee: $170

• Examination Section Fees: $238.15 per section

• Total Examination Cost: $1,122.60

• License Application Fee: Approximately $50

Candidates must provide evidence of their work experience and official transcripts verifying their educational qualifications.

Renewal and Continuing Education

Florida CPAs must renew their licenses every two years, with a $105 renewal fee. While continuing professional education (CPE) is no longer a condition for renewal post-June 30, 2011, CPAs must still meet the CPE requirement by June 30th of the renewal year. This includes completing 80 CPE hours, which encompass specific requirements in accounting, auditing, ethics, and behavioral subjects.

Unique Aspects of Florida CPA Requirements

• No Residency or Citizenship Requirements: Candidates do not need to be U.S. citizens or Florida residents.

• No Age Restrictions: There is no specific age requirement for CPA candidates in Florida.

• Social Security Number Requirement: Candidates must have a Social Security number.

• Good Moral Character: A prerequisite for licensure.

• No State Ethics Exam Requirement: Unlike many states, Florida does not require an ethics exam for CPA licensure.

• International CPA Examination Program Participation: Florida allows international candidates to sit for the CPA Exam under this program.

Applying for the CPA Exam

Candidates should start by submitting their CPA Exam application and fees through the Florida DBPR or NASBA. Upon acceptance, they will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) and later a Notice to Schedule (NTS). The exam can be scheduled at a Prometric testing center using the NTS.

Conclusion

Becoming a CPA in Florida involves a clear but detailed process, from educational prerequisites to exam schedules and work experience requirements. By understanding and meeting these specific criteria, candidates can successfully navigate the path to CPA licensure in Florida, opening doors to a rewarding career in accounting and finance.