Guide to Becoming a CPA in Texas
Texas, with its dynamic economy and high demand for CPAs, provides an excellent platform for accounting professionals. The Texas State Board of Public Accountancy (TSBPA) outlines the CPA licensure requirements, working in conjunction with NASBA and AICPA. Here's a comprehensive guide to becoming a CPA in Texas.
Educational Requirements
To sit for the CPA Exam in Texas, candidates must meet these educational criteria:
Degree: A baccalaureate or higher degree from a board-recognized college or university.
Credit Hours: A total of 150 semester hours.
Accounting Coursework:
At least 30 semester hours in accounting, including certain specific courses.
Business Coursework:
24 semester hours in business courses.
Ethics Course: A three-semester-hour ethics course approved by the Board.
Work Experience Requirements
Texas requires:
Experience: One year (2,000 hours) of non-routine accounting work experience. This experience must be verified and can include diverse fields like public accounting, industry, government, academia, or law firms.
Ethics Exam
Candidates must pass the Texas Rules of Professional Conduct exam, which focuses on ethical standards in the accounting profession.
Residency and Citizenship Requirements
Age: No minimum age requirement.
Citizenship: U.S. citizenship is not required.
Residency: No residency requirement in Texas.
Social Security Number Requirement
A Social Security number is mandatory for CPA licensure in Texas.
International CPA Examination Program
Texas participates in this program, allowing international candidates to apply for the CPA Exam. International credentials must be evaluated by NASBA-approved authorities.
CPA Exam and Licensing Fees
The fees for the CPA examination and licensing in Texas are:
Initial Application Fee: $50.00
Examination Fees (per section):
AUD: $238.15
BEC: $238.15
FAR: $238.15
REG: $238.15
Total for all sections: $1,002.60
Re-Examination Fees: Vary based on the number of sections.
Initial Licensing Fee: $100
License Renewal
CPA licenses in Texas must be renewed annually, with the renewal date falling on the last day of the licensee's birth month. Licensees must complete continuing professional education (CPE) requirements for renewal.
Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Requirements
Total Hours: 120 hours of CPE every three years, with a minimum of 20 hours completed each year.
Specific Requirements:
A portion of the hours must be in technical subjects.
For those providing attest services, specific hours must be in accounting and auditing.
Record Retention: CPAs must keep records of their CPE for at least five years.
Conclusion
Becoming a CPA in Texas involves meeting specific educational qualifications, passing the CPA Exam, completing relevant work experience, adhering to ethical standards, and engaging in continuous professional development through CPE. With Texas' robust economic growth, CPAs have substantial opportunities to establish successful careers across various sectors. Continuous learning and adherence to professional standards are essential for maintaining CPA licensure and excelling in the accounting profession in Texas.
