In North Dakota, known for its business-friendly tax climate, becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) can be a significant career advancement. The North Dakota Board of Accountancy, in coordination with NASBA and AICPA, sets the standards for CPA licensure in the state. Let's explore the requirements, application process, and licensure for CPAs in North Dakota.

 

Educational Requirements

To sit for the CPA Exam and qualify for licensure, candidates must meet these educational criteria:

• Degree: A baccalaureate or higher degree from a regionally or nationally accredited institution.

• Accounting Coursework: At least 24 semester hours in accounting courses, including audit or tax, but excluding Principles of Accounting.

• Business Coursework: 24 semester hours in non-accounting business courses, such as management, finance, or marketing, including up to three hours in economics.

 

Work Experience Requirements

After passing the CPA Exam, candidates must complete:

• Experience: At least one year (2,000 hours) of relevant work experience within a period of four years or less, in areas such as accounting, attest, financial advisory, management advisory, tax, or consulting skills.

 

Ethics Exam

North Dakota requires completion of the AICPA’s Professional Ethics Course, an 11-hour self-study course with a passing score of at least 90.

 

Citizenship and Age Requirements

• Age: Minimum of 18 years old.

• Citizenship: U.S. citizenship is not required.

• Residency: No state residency requirement.

 

Social Security Number Requirement

A Social Security number is not required for CPA licensure in North Dakota.

 

International CPA Examination Program

North Dakota welcomes international candidates through the International CPA Examination Program. Credentials must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency by FACSUSA or NASBA International Evaluation Services (NIES).

 

CPA Exam and Licensing Fees

The fees for the CPA examination and licensing in North Dakota are:

• Initial Application Fee: $120.00

• Examination Fees (per section):

• AUD: $238.15

• BEC: $238.15

• FAR: $238.15

• REG: $238.15

• Total for all sections: $1,072.60

 

License Renewal and Fees

• Annual Renewal: Licensees must renew their license annually on the state board website.

• Renewal Fees:

• April 15 - June 30: $85

• July 31 - August 31: $185

• Licenses not renewed by August 31 are considered expired.

 

Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Requirements

CPAs in North Dakota must complete 120 CPE hours every three years, with at least 20 hours annually. This includes a minimum of six hours in ethics.

 

Conclusion

Achieving CPA certification in North Dakota requires meeting educational standards, passing the CPA Exam, gaining relevant work experience, and adhering to ethical standards. With its favorable business environment, North Dakota offers promising prospects for CPAs who maintain their skills and knowledge through continuous professional education.