Introduction

Hawaii, known for its unique blend of cultural and business environments, offers great opportunities for Certified Public Accountants (CPAs). If you're looking to become a CPA in Hawaii, understanding the state-specific requirements is essential. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the CPA licensure process in Hawaii.

Educational and Professional Requirements

To qualify for the CPA exam in Hawaii, candidates must meet these educational criteria:

• Bachelor’s Degree: A baccalaureate degree with at least 120 semester units is required.

• Advanced Accounting Coursework: If the bachelor’s degree is not in accounting, 18 semester hours of upper-division accounting courses are necessary.

• Licensure Education: For CPA licensure, 150 semester hours are required, including 24 hours in advanced accounting and 24 hours in upper-division business courses.

CPA Exam and Licensing Process

• Exam Score Requirement: Candidates must score sufficiently in each section of the CPA exam.

• Work Experience: Candidates need 1,500 hours in audit or two years of full-time general accounting experience, verified by a licensed CPA.

• No Ethics Exam Requirement: Hawaii does not require a separate ethics exam for CPA licensure.

Licensing Fees and Renewal

• Application Fees: The initial application fee for the CPA exam is $170, and each exam section costs $224.99.

• Re-examination Fee: $85 for re-examination application.

• Total Initial Fees: Approximately $1,069.96.

Residency and Citizenship Requirements

• Residency: Residency in Hawaii is not required for CPA licensure.

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is not a prerequisite for becoming a CPA in Hawaii.

Continuing Education and Renewal

• CPE Requirements: Continuing Professional Education (CPE) details are not specified in the provided information but are typically required for license renewal.

• License Renewal: License renewal procedures and fees are not detailed in the provided information.

International CPA Examination Program

• Participation: Hawaii participates in the International CPA Examination Program, allowing international candidates to meet CPA certification standards.

Applying for the CPA Exam in Hawaii

1. Submit CPA Exam Application and Fees: Apply through the appropriate channels in Hawaii, ensuring all required documents and fees are submitted.

2. Work Experience Verification: Obtain verification of your work experience from a licensed CPA.

3. Schedule and Pass the CPA Exam: Schedule each section of the CPA exam and aim to pass them within the specified timeframe.

Conclusion

Becoming a CPA in Hawaii involves meeting specific educational requirements, passing the CPA exam, and gaining relevant work experience. With its diverse economic landscape, Hawaii provides a promising platform for CPAs to grow and excel in their careers.