More than likely, active CPAs know there are plenty of benefits that come with AICPA membership. For instance, opportunities for better pay and career advancement through professional networking. And of course, the recognition that accompanies licensure with the prestigious organization. However, license upkeep notoriously takes a considerable amount of time and effort. And consequently, CPA recertification often comes across as a daunting process. So, when it comes to license renewal, the best thing for members is to make sure they understand CPE and how to earn it. And moreover, they should become familiar with the typical process of CPA recertification.
General CPA Recertification Requirements
Fortunately, the overall CPA recertification requirements have been largely static since January of 2001. Which, of course, indicates that changes to the general rules are few and far between. At least on an organizational level. So, by and large, the license renewal requirements are as follows:
- CPAs must earn at least 120 CPE credits every three years.
- They also must earn CPE through accredited providers or activities.
- Although, members lacking the necessary credits at the end of the reporting period receive a two-month grace period. Furthermore, credits earned during this time do not count toward the next license renewal cycle.
However, that fact that CPAs have state requirements and limitations on top of the overall organizational standards complicates the process. Because the rules differ heavily from one location to another. For example, Louisiana CPAs must renew licenses annually while those in Illinois do every three years. Furthermore, some state boards accept specific learning activities that others do not. And the differences go on. So, it’s obviously important for CPAs to know not only the overall organization requirements, but their state rules as well. And part of that means understanding how to apply for license renewal once they’ve completed the required CPE learning activities.
Recertification Portals by State
Since CPAs report to individual state boards of accountancy, they also renew their licenses in different places. Though, in almost all cases, there are online portals for CPA recertification. Here, they log in and submit the appropriate documentation and fees for renewal. And once the Board has reviewed their application, they receive notice of confirmation or rejection. CPAs can find the appropriate license renewal page by their specific state in the table below, separated by geographic region. However, due to login restrictions, some states alternatively direct to specific recertification instructions.
Earning CPA CPE Credit
Of course, even after CPA recertification, the cycle begins all over again. But knowing some tips for recertification is always helpful. Since many CPAs have a yearly minimum CPE requirement, the search for learning activities is a never-ending process. So, when it comes to earning credits, there are typically several options open to CPAs. For instance, some of the more popular activities include conferences, formal presentations, self-study courses, and webinars. Although, there are other types of learning opportunities approved by different state boards that also count. So, once more, CPAs should check their state requirements to ensure compliance with the specific CPA license renewal rules.
Additionally, when choosing learning activities, CPAs need to be careful to find reputable CPE providers. But since there are many approved providers qualified to deliver CPE opportunities, they should never run out of options. In fact, the difficult part is determining which providers meet financial and time-sensitive needs. Because the cost of CPA recertification can vary heavily depending on which path an individual chooses. For instance, conferences might represent an easy way to earn a large amount of credit quickly. However, they typically cost quite a bit between attendance fees, travel, and lodging. On the other hand, online courses are often a cheaper alternative. But they rarely qualify for as much credit as conferences. And even if they do, they’ll likely take much longer to complete. So, it’s entirely up to individual CPAs to determine which options work best for their personal needs.
Take CPA Recertification Courses with VTR Learning
Though there are many different types of CPA CPE opportunities, VTR Learning offers a unique approach to self-study. Because most of the content is based around a narrative setting. In other words, the courses center around a story, complete with characters and lifelike situations. Thus, learners can better understand business principles by seeing them play out as they would in a real company. So, if you’re looking for a different kind of CPE experience, check out our courses for CPA recertification.
Article written by Braden Norwood
Last updated March 23, 2023
