California CPA Requirements

See what you need to become a CPA in your state. Download your FREE State CPA Requirements Guide to learn everything you need to become a CPA in your state!

How to Become a CPA in California

Welcome to your one-stop-shop for CPA Requirements in California. Navigate through the tabs below for a comprehensive overview of your state’s specific CPA requirements, including: education and residency requirements, licensure details, who to contact, and how much the exam costs.  

0
Semester Units
1
Year of Experience
$ 0
in Application Fees

No

Residency or Citizenship
Requirements

One

Mandatory
State Ethics Exam

No

Participates​ in International
Exam Program
Tabs CSS and JS

Getting your California CPA

CPA Exam Requirements California


California CPA Exam Education Requirements

Credit Requirements: 120 semester units

Minimum Degree: Baccalaureate degree

Additional Requirements: Must include 24 semester hours in accounting subjects and 24 semester hours in business-related courses are required to take the CPA Exam in California.
(Requirements may vary. Contact the California State Board for more information on California requirements for the CPA exam.)


California Residency Requirements for the CPA Exam

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is not a California CPA exam requirement

Minimum Age: There are no California CPA requirements dictating a minimum age limit

Additional Requirements: There are no California CPA exam requirements to be a resident, employee, or keep office(s) in the state