Ohio's thriving business environment, home to numerous Fortune 500 firms, makes it an attractive destination for Certified Public Accountants (CPAs). The state has specific requirements for CPA licensure, governed by the Accountancy Board of Ohio. Here's what you need to know to become a CPA in Ohio.

 

Educational Requirements

To sit for the CPA Exam and obtain licensure in Ohio, candidates must fulfill these educational criteria:

• Bachelor’s Degree: A degree from an accredited institution is required.

• Credit Hours: At least 120 semester hours are needed to sit for the exam. For licensure, candidates must complete 150 semester hours.

• Accounting and Business Coursework:

• 24 semester hours in accounting, covering financial accounting, cost/managerial accounting, auditing, and taxation.

• 24 semester hours in business courses like finance, management, and economics.

 

Work Experience Requirements

Depending on their education, candidates have different work experience requirements:

• 150 Semester Hours Before Exam: One year (2,000 hours) of experience.

• Less than 150 Hours Before Exam, but Completed Before Licensure: Two years of experience.

• GMAT Score of 670+ with Partial Waiver of 150-Hour Requirement: Four years of experience.

 

Ethics Exam

Ohio requires completion of a Professional Standards and Responsibilities (PSR) course, earning at least three credits in PSR. Candidates must also pass a criminal background check.

 

Residency Requirement

Candidates must be Ohio residents to sit for the CPA Exam.

 

Social Security Number Requirement

A Social Security number is necessary for CPA licensure in Ohio.

 

International CPA Examination Program

Ohio participates in this program, allowing international candidates to become CPAs in Ohio, provided they meet all requirements set by the Accountancy Board of Ohio.

 

CPA Exam and Licensing Fees

The fees for the CPA examination and licensing in Ohio are:

• Initial Application Fee: $280.00

• Examination Fees (per section):

• AUD: $238.15

• BEC: $238.15

• FAR: $238.15

• REG: $238.15

• Total for all sections: $1,232.60

• License Application Fee: Approximately $100

 

License Renewal and Fees

• Renewal Cycle: Every three years, beginning in early October and ending on December 31.

• Three-Year Ohio Registration Fee: $85

• Two-Year Ohio Registration Fee: $56 (For Newly Licensed CPAs or Return to Good Standing)

• One-Year Ohio Registration Fee: $28 (For Return to Good Standing)

 

Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Requirements

• Standard Requirement: 120 hours of CPE credits during the three years prior to license expiration.

• New License Applicants: 20 hours of CPE each of the two years prior to license application.

 

Conclusion

Becoming a CPA in Ohio involves meeting the state's educational, examination, experience, and ethical standards. The demand for CPAs in Ohio's robust economy provides ample opportunities for accounting professionals. Continuous professional development

through CPE ensures that Ohio CPAs maintain their expertise and stay aware of the latest developments in the accounting field. With the right preparation and dedication, achieving CPA certification in Ohio can be a significant milestone in your accounting career, opening doors to a wide range of professional opportunities in this economically vibrant state.