Georgia CPA Requirements: Your Pathway to Professional Achievement
Introduction
In Georgia, a state booming with large firms and corporations, the demand for Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) is high. Understanding the specific licensure requirements in Georgia is crucial for aspiring CPAs. This guide details the educational, examination, and experience requirements necessary for CPA licensure in Georgia.
Educational and Professional Requirements
To become eligible for the CPA exam in Georgia, candidates must meet these educational criteria:
Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor's degree or higher with at least 120 semester hours, including specific accounting and business coursework, is required.
Licensure Education: For CPA licensure, 150 semester hours are needed, with 30 hours in accounting and 24 hours in business-related courses.
CPA Exam and Licensing Process
Exam Score Requirement: Candidates must achieve a minimum score of 75 in each section of the CPA exam.
Work Experience: One year (2,000 hours) of work experience in accounting is required, which can be in public accounting, industry, government, or academia.
No Ethics Exam Requirement: Georgia does not require a separate ethics exam for licensure.
Licensing Fees and Renewal
Application Fees: The initial application fee for the CPA exam is $170, and each exam section costs $238.15.
Licensure Fees: After meeting all requirements, the CPA license application fee in Georgia is $140.
Continuing Education and Renewal
CPE Requirements: Georgia CPAs must complete 80 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) every two years.
License Renewal: Renewal occurs biennially by December 31 of odd-numbered years, with varying fees and potential late charges.
International CPA Examination Program
Participation: Georgia participates in NASBA's International CPA Examination Administration Program, accommodating international candidates.
Applying for the CPA Exam in Georgia
Submit CPA Exam Application and Fees: Apply through the NASBA website, ensuring all required documents and fees are submitted.
Authorization to Test (ATT): Once eligible, you will receive an ATT from the Georgia State Board of Accountancy.
Notice to Schedule (NTS): Issued within three to six weeks of application, necessary for scheduling your exam.
Schedule Exam with Prometric: Choose your exam date and location through Prometric.
Conclusion
Achieving CPA licensure in Georgia involves meeting specific educational requirements, passing the CPA exam, and gaining relevant work experience. With its robust corporate environment, Georgia offers CPAs a platform for professional growth and numerous employment opportunities.