Missouri cpa cpe Requirements Thinking about becoming a Certified Public Accountant in Missouri Whether you’re a student planning your career path or a working professional looking to level up, this complete guide covers everything you need to know about CPA exam requirements, CPE rules, and the licensing process in Missouri.
Why Become a CPA in Missouri?
Missouri offers a dynamic job market for CPAs, with opportunities in public accounting, corporate finance, government, and nonprofit sectors. A CPA license can open doors to higher salaries, career advancement, and professional credibility.
1. Missouri CPA Exam Requirements
Before you can take the Uniform CPA Exam, you must meet Missouri’s education requirements.
Educational Requirements
To sit for the CPA exam in Missouri, you must have.
- 150 semester hours of college education
- A bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited school
- At least 33 semester hours in accounting courses
- At least 27 semester hours in business-related courses
These hours must include subjects like financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and managerial accounting.
Applying for the CPA Exam
- Submit an application through the Missouri State Board of Accountancy
- Send official transcripts directly to the board
- Pay applicable exam fees for each section
CPA Exam Sections
The CPA exam is divided into four parts:
- Auditing and Attestation
- Business Environment and Concepts
- Financial Accounting and Reporting
- Regulation
2. Experience Requirements for CPA License in Missouri
After passing the CPA exam, candidates must complete a verified work experience component.
Work Experience Details
- 1 year of experience in accounting, attestation, or auditing
- Supervised by a licensed CPA
- Experience must be documented and approved by the Missouri State Board of Accountancy
3. Missouri CPA License Application Process
Once you’ve completed your education, passed the CPA exam, and fulfilled the work experience requirement, you can apply for your license.
Steps to Apply for a CPA License in Missouri
- Complete the initial license application on the Missouri Board website
- Pay the application and licensing fees
- Submit proof of experience and pass a criminal background check
- Receive your official CPA license number
4. Missouri CPE Requirements for CPAs
To maintain your CPA license in Missouri, you must complete Continuing Professional Education hours.
CPE Hour Requirements
- 120 CPE hours every 3 years
- Minimum of 20 hours per year
- Must include:
6 hours of ethics
Acceptable CPE Topics
- Accounting and auditing
- Taxation
- Management advisory services
- Business law
- Professional ethics
Reporting CPE
- CPAs must maintain records of CPE activities
- Submit CPE documentation during license renewal
5. License Renewal in Missouri
CPA licenses in Missouri must be renewed every 3 years.
Renewal Requirements
- Complete required CPE hours
- Pay the renewal fee
- Submit the renewal form through the Missouri Board’s online portal
6. Transferring a CPA License to Missouri
Already licensed in another state? Missouri offers reciprocity for out-of-state CPAs.
Reciprocity Requirements
- Must meet Missouri’s education and experience standards
- Provide proof of active licensure in another state
- Pass Missouri’s ethics requirement if needed
7. Ethics Exam Requirement in Missouri
Missouri does not currently require a separate ethics exam for licensure. However, ethics CPE hours are still mandatory for license renewal.
8. Missouri CPA Resources and Contacts
- Missouri State Board of Accountancy.
- National Association of State Boards of Accountancy
- American Institute of CPAs
Final Thoughts
Becoming a CPA in Missouri is a rewarding journey that involves education, exam prep, experience, and ongoing learning. By following the steps in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to earning your CPA license and building a successful accounting career.
