LicenseCompass

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) License in Ohio

Quick Answer

To become a CPA in Ohio, you must complete specific coursework, pass both state and Uniform CPA exams, complete a background check, and meet experience requirements. CE is required for renewal. The Accountancy Board of Ohio oversees licensing. Estimated total costs are approximately $2,175.

Exam
Uniform CPA Exam (AICPA/NASBA)
Total Cost
$2,175 (est.)
Timeline
5-7 years (including degree)
Background Check
Required
Renewal
Every 3 years

Requirements

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification in Ohio

gold
Education
Specific course required
Exam
Both state and third-party exams required
Background Check
Background check required
Continuing Education
Continuing education required to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
N/A - Not displayed

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee
$100
Exam Fee
$1,000
Renewal Fee
$75
Total Estimated Cost
$2,175

Licensing Agency

Accountancy Board of Ohio

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license in Ohio. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

$
Application FeeEst.$100
Exam FeeEst.$1,000
Total Estimated Cost$1,100

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Ohio licensing board.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Salary in Ohio

Entry Level

$49,480

Median

$77,640

Experienced

$129,640

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 (CPA) in Ohio.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Specific course required

  2. 2

    Submit Background Check

    Background check required

  3. 3

    Pass the Required Exam

    Both state and third-party exams required — Uniform CPA Exam (AICPA/NASBA)

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$100.

  5. 5

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 5-7 years (including degree).

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Licensing in Ohio: What to Know

Ohio requires a specific course (not just a degree), CE for renewal, both state and third-party exams, and a background check. The Accountancy Board of Ohio oversees licensing. Ohio's diverse economy — including banking (Columbus), manufacturing (Cleveland), consumer products (Cincinnati/P&G), and healthcare — creates CPA demand across many industries. Ohio is one of the few states requiring both state and third-party exams.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license cost in Ohio?
The estimated total cost is $2,175, including application fees, exam fees ($1,000), and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license in Ohio?
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 (CPA) license in Ohio?
You need to pass the Uniform CPA Exam (AICPA/NASBA). Both state and third-party exams required

Considering another state?

Compare Certified Public Accountant (CPA) requirements across states.

View all states →

Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.