From Exam to License: How to Become a Certified CPA in Missouri

Missouri Cpa Cpe Requirements Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Missouri is a rewarding achievement that opens doors in public accounting, industry, government, and nonprofit sectors. This comprehensive guide walks you through each step—from education to the exam and licensure—so you can launch your CPA career with confidence.

Why Become a CPA in Missouri?

• High demand & strong job prospects: CPAs are consistently needed across diverse sectors.
• Prestige & competitiveness: The CPA credential boosts credibility and salary potential.
• State-specific scope: As a Missouri CPA, you’re authorized to perform audits and offer official financial opinions in the state.

Step 1: Meet Missouri’s Education Requirements

Missouri mandates 150 semester hours of college coursework. Generally, this includes:

• A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or business.
• Additional coursework to reach 150 credit hours, including advanced accounting, auditing, taxation, and ethics.

Step 2: Apply for the CPA Exam in Missouri

Once you’ve met educational requirements:

1. Submit your application to the Missouri Board of Accountancy with official transcripts.
2. Pay the fees and await approval.
3. Upon approval, you’ll receive your form from NASBA, which enables you to register for sections of the CPA exam.

Step 3: Pass the Four CPA Exam Sections

The CPA exam consists of these parts:

1. Auditing and Attestation
2. Business Environment & Concepts
3. Financial Accounting and Reporting
4. Regulation

Study tips:

• Use reputable review courses.
• Study in blocks; plan to clear one section before moving to the next.
• Aim to pass at least two sections before your NTS.

Step 4: Fulfill Missouri’s Ethics Requirement

The AICPA ethics exam is required before licensing. Missouri accepts the AICPA Self-Study Ethics Course, which covers essential professional conduct rules and ethical behavior for CPAs.

Step 5: Gain Practical Experience

To qualify for licensure, Missouri requires:

• Two years of acceptable work experience.
• Supervision by a CPA, and including auditing, attest, tax, or consulting tasks.
• Keep detailed records of your duties and hours. Your supervising CPA should verify them when you apply for licensure.

Step 6: Apply for Your Missouri CPA License

Here’s what you’ll need to submit:

• Proof of education: final transcripts showing 150 hours.
• Exam scores are official results of all four sections at 75 or above.
• Ethics certificate from the AICPA course.
• Experience verification signed by your supervisor.
• Application form and fees to the Missouri Board.

Step 7: Maintain and Renew Your License

Missouri CPAs must fulfill these ongoing requirements:

• Renew license annually.
• Complete CPE 20 total hours per year, with 4 hours in ethics.
• Pay renewal fees and stay current on regulations and industry updates.

Can I sit for the exam before completing 150 credit hours?

Yes Missouri lets you apply if you’re within 30 credit hours of meeting the requirement. You’ll need final transcripts before licensure.

What if I pass some exam sections, but the NTS expires?

Your scores remain valid, but you’ll need to reapply or reschedule expired sections before passing all four within 18 months.

Is the ethics course tough?

It’s straightforward but essential. Treat it seriously; you’ll need a certificate before licensing.

Final Takeaway

Becoming a Missouri CPA takes dedication but each milestone brings you closer to a respected and lucrative profession. Here’s your roadmap:

1. Earn 150 credit hours.
2. Apply and sit for the CPA exam.
3. Pass all four sections within 18 months.
4. Complete the AICPA ethics course.
5. Gain 2 years of supervised experience.
6. Apply for your CPA license.
7. Stay licensed through CPE and renewals.

FAQS

1. What are the education requirements to become a CPA in Missouri?

To become a CPA in Missouri, you must complete 150 semester hours of college coursework, including a bachelor’s degree with specific accounting and business courses.

2. Can I take the CPA exam in Missouri before finishing all 150 credit hours?

Yes, Missouri allows candidates to sit for the CPA exam if they are within 30 credit hours of completing the 150-hour requirement.

3. How many sections are on the CPA exam?

There are four sections: Auditing & Attestation, Business Environment & Concepts, Financial Accounting & Reporting, and Regulation.

4. How long do I have to pass all parts of the CPA exam?

You must pass all four sections within an 18-month rolling window once you pass the first section.

5. Is the ethics exam required to become a CPA in Missouri?

Yes. Missouri requires you to pass the AICPA ethics exam before applying for licensure.