Idaho CPA Exam & License Requirements: How to Become a CPA in Idaho

Did you know that the journey to becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Idaho starts with fulfilling specific educational and work experience requirements?

But wait, there’s more to it.

According to the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA), the historical national pass rate for the CPA exam was around 50%. This statistic highlights the challenging nature of the CPA exam and the importance of thorough preparation.

The path to becoming a CPA in Idaho is unique, with specific state-level requirements that must be met. This includes not only educational and work prerequisites but also an in-depth understanding of the state’s accounting and business laws.

As you proceed, remember that the journey to becoming a CPA is as rewarding as it is challenging. With the right preparation and mindset, you can join the ranks of successful CPAs who have made a significant impact in the world of accounting and finance. So, are you ready to take the first step? Let’s dive into the world of CPA licensure in Idaho and set you on the path to success.

Steps to Get a CPA License in Idaho

• Meet education and verified work requirements.
• Pass all sections of the CPA Exam (consider a CPA review course for assistance).
• Complete the AICPA Ethics Exam.
• Fill out and submit all required CPA license application paperwork.
• Pay the CPA license application fee.

CPA Licensure Requirements in Idaho

Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Idaho involves meeting specific criteria set by the Idaho State Board of Accountancy. These requirements are designed to ensure that all CPAs possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and ethical understanding to uphold the standards of the profession. Below is a detailed breakdown of the general, educational, and work experience requirements for CPA licensure in Idaho.

General Requirements

• Minimum Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
• Residency and Citizenship: There is no residency or U.S. citizenship requirement for CPA licensure in Idaho.
• Ethics Exam: Passing the AICPA Ethics Exam is mandatory. This exam focuses on professional conduct and standards within the accounting profession. More details can be found on the AICPA website.

Education Requirements

• Credit Hours: A total of 150 semester credit hours from an accredited institution is required.
• Degree: A bachelor’s degree or higher is necessary.
• Accounting Courses: Applicants must complete 24 semester hours in accounting courses. This should include courses in auditing, financial accounting, management accounting, and taxation.
• Business Courses: Additionally, 24 semester hours in business-related courses are required. These can include subjects like business law, finance, information systems, and business ethics.
• Specific Coursework: Idaho may have specific requirements regarding the level of courses (e.g., upper-division) or particular subject areas. It’s essential to consult the Idaho State Board of Accountancy for detailed course requirements.

Work Experience Requirements

• Duration: One year (2,000 hours) of work experience is required.
• Nature of Work: The experience can be in public or non-public accounting and must involve the use of accounting, attest, management advisory, financial advisory, tax, or consulting skills.
• Verification: The work experience must be verified by a licensed CPA who is active and in good standing. This CPA should have firsthand knowledge of the applicant’s work.
• Time Frame: Part-time work is acceptable but must be completed within a 1-3 year period.

Meeting these requirements is a critical step toward earning a CPA license in Idaho. Aspiring CPAs should ensure they stay updated with any changes or updates to these requirements by regularly checking the Idaho State Board of Accountancy website. This ensures compliance with the current standards and regulations governing CPA licensure in the state.

Ethics Course and Exam Requirements

The Ethics Exam is a pivotal component of the CPA licensure process in Idaho, emphasizing the profession’s commitment to integrity and professionalism. Here’s a detailed overview of the AICPA Ethics Exam, including its content, available study resources, and preparation strategies.

• Requirement: Passing the AICPA Ethics Exam is mandatory for CPA licensure in Idaho.
• Content: The exam primarily focuses on the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct, which sets forth ethical principles that CPAs are expected to adhere to. Key areas covered include independence, integrity, objectivity, general standards, acts discreditable, and other ethical conduct aspects in accounting. The exam also tests candidates’ ability to apply these principles in real-world scenarios.
• Pricing: The course and exam package is priced at $320, with a discounted rate of $250 for AICPA members.

Idaho CPA Licensure and Exam Fees

Navigating the financial aspects of obtaining a CPA license in Idaho is an important part of the licensure process. Below is a detailed breakdown of the various fees associated with CPA licensure and exam in Idaho, including education evaluation and licensure fees.

Education Evaluation Application Fee

• Purpose: This fee is for the evaluation of educational qualifications to sit for the CPA exam.
• Fee Details: Applicants must pay a fee for the education evaluation application. The specific amount and payment instructions can be found on the Idaho Board of Accountancy website.

CPA Exam Fees

• Application Fee: There is an initial application fee for the CPA exam in Idaho of $100.
• Examination Fees: Each section of the CPA exam costs $344.80.
• Re-examination Fees: If a candidate needs to retake any section of the CPA exam, there are re-examination fees applicable for each section.

CPA Licensure Fees

• Initial Licensure Fee: Upon passing the CPA exam and meeting all other licensure requirements, candidates must pay an initial licensure fee to obtain their CPA license in Idaho.
• Renewal Fees: CPAs are required to renew their license periodically, which involves a renewal fee. The frequency and amount of this fee can be found on the Idaho Board of Accountancy website.

Additional Fees

• Ethics Exam Fee: Candidates are required to pass the AICPA Ethics Exam, which has its own fee structure.
• Other Potential Costs: Applicants should also consider potential costs for CPA review courses, study materials, and any additional resources they may need for exam preparation.

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CPA Evolution and Changes in 2024: A Focus on Idaho

The CPA profession is undergoing a significant transformation with the CPA Evolution, a joint initiative by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA). This initiative, set to take effect in 2024, aims to ensure that CPAs are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed in a rapidly evolving business environment. Here’s an overview of the general changes and any specifics for the state of Idaho.

General Changes with CPA Evolution

• Updated Exam Structure: The CPA Exam will be restructured to include a core section covering essential skills in accounting, auditing, tax, and technology. Additionally, candidates will choose one of three discipline-specific sections: Business Analysis & Reporting (BAR), Information Systems & Controls (ISC), or Tax Compliance & Planning (TCP).
• Enhanced Focus on Technology: Recognizing the growing importance of technology in accounting, the new exam format will place a greater emphasis on skills like data analytics and information technology.
• Adaptation to Modern Needs: The CPA Evolution is designed to align the CPA licensure model with the changing skills and competencies required in the accounting profession, particularly in areas like digital acumen, business intelligence, and risk management.

Specifics for Idaho

• State Board Adaptations: The Idaho State Board of Accountancy is expected to align its licensure requirements with the changes brought by the CPA Evolution. This may include updates to educational and experience requirements to reflect the new exam structure and content.
• Educational Curriculum Changes: Accounting programs in Idaho may revise their curricula to prepare students for the new exam format, ensuring that graduates possess the skills and knowledge aligned with the CPA Evolution model.
• Continuing Professional Education (CPE): Current CPAs in Idaho might see changes in CPE requirements, with potential new courses focusing on emerging technologies and business practices.

Preparing for the Changes

• Candidates: Those planning to take the CPA exam in 2024 or later should stay informed about the new exam structure and prepare accordingly. It’s advisable to check with the Idaho State Board of Accountancy for specific guidance and updates.
• Educational Institutions: Colleges and universities in Idaho offering accounting programs will need to adapt their course offerings to cover the new core competencies and disciplines of the CPA Evolution.
• Current CPAs: Existing CPAs in Idaho should anticipate changes in CPE requirements and seek opportunities to enhance their skills in technology and business analysis.

The CPA Evolution represents a significant shift in the CPA licensure process, reflecting the dynamic nature of the accounting profession. Candidates, educators, and current CPAs in Idaho should actively engage with the Idaho State Board of Accountancy and professional organizations to navigate these changes effectively. This proactive approach will ensure that the accounting profession in Idaho remains at the forefront of excellence and relevance in the global business landscape.

Expert Tips for Becoming a CPA in Idaho

As a seasoned CPA, here are my best suggestions for aspiring CPAs in Idaho. It’s crucial to concentrate on the state’s educational requirements. Idaho mandates 150 semester credit hours, with a strong emphasis on both accounting and business courses. Key areas include auditing, financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, business law, and finance.

These subjects are not just essential for meeting the credit hour criteria but are instrumental in laying a robust foundation for your CPA exam preparation and future accounting career. Be mindful of Idaho’s specific course level requirements, such as the need for upper-division classes, and plan your educational journey to align with these standards.

Secondly, when it comes to the CPA exam itself, understand that preparation is key, and Idaho’s unique requirements play a role here too. Given the challenging nature of the CPA exam, where the national pass rate hovers around 50%, it’s essential to choose a CPA review course that aligns with Idaho’s exam structure and content. Such a course should cover the core areas tested in the exam while also providing resources and practice questions tailored to Idaho’s specific standards.

Additionally, leverage the AICPA Ethics Exam as an opportunity to deepen your understanding of professional conduct, a critical aspect of being a CPA in Idaho. By focusing on these areas and utilizing the available resources, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the CPA licensure process in Idaho successfully.

Idaho Exam Information and Resources

• Idaho CPA Exam Candidates
• Idaho CPA License FAQ
• Idaho State Board of Accountancy
• NASBA Idaho
• Idaho Society of Certified Public Accountants (ISCPA)

For more details, please contact:

Idaho State Board of Accountancy

11341 W. Chinden Blvd.
Boise, ID 83714
Email: [email protected] 
Phone: 208-334-3233
Fax: 208-334-2615

FAQs