Certified Public Accountant License in New York
Quick Answer
To become a CPA in New York, you must meet the NYS Education Department requirements including education, the Uniform CPA Exam, and experience. Only licensed CPAs may perform attest services in NY. Tax planning and advisory may be done without a CPA license. NYC is the world's largest accounting market. Estimated total costs are approximately $2,350.
- Exam
- Uniform CPA Exam (AICPA/NASBA)
- Total Cost
- $2,350 (est.)
- Timeline
- 5-7 years (including degree)
- Renewal
- Every 3 years
Requirements
Certified Public Accountant certification in New York
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $150
- Exam Fee
- $1,000
- Renewal Fee
- $100
- Total Estimated Cost
- $2,350
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Certified Public Accountant license in New York. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the New York licensing board.
Certified Public Accountant Salary in New York
Entry Level
$62,430
Median
$101,780
Experienced
$178,500
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Certified Public Accountant in New York.
- 1
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$150.
- 2
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 5-7 years (including degree).
Certified Public Accountant Licensing in New York: What to Know
New York emphasizes that only a licensed CPA may perform the 'attest function' in the state — CPAs and Public Accountants (PAs) prepare, evaluate, and attest to the accuracy of financial statements. However, tax planning, financial advisory, and management advisory services may also be provided by unlicensed individuals. The NYS Education Department under the State Board for Public Accountancy oversees licensing. New York City is the world's largest accounting market, home to all Big Four firms' US headquarters and countless mid-market and boutique accounting practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Certified Public Accountant license cost in New York?
- The estimated total cost is $2,350, including application fees, exam fees ($1,000), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Certified Public Accountant license in New York?
- The process typically takes 5-7 years (including degree), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Certified Public Accountant license in New York?
- You need to pass the Uniform CPA Exam (AICPA/NASBA). N/A
Considering another state?
Compare Certified Public Accountant requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.