California Certified Public Accountant Requirements: A Guide

Becoming a Certified Public Accountant in California isn’t just about passing an exam. It’s a multi-step process regulated by one of the most rigorous boards in the country. If you’re hiring a CPA—or are one—you need to know exactly what those steps are.

Why? Because not all accountants are licensed. And not all licensed CPAs meet California’s standards.

The California certified public accountant requirements include a specific mix of education, supervised experience, and ongoing training. If your accountant can’t meet them, they can’t legally call themselves a CPA here. No shortcuts. No substitutes.

This guide explains what those requirements are—and how working with someone who meets them, like Shaun Glenn at Simplicity Financial, gives you more than compliance. It gives you confidence.

Want to work with someone who checks every box? Contact Simplicity Financial to schedule a personalized consultation 💼

What Are the CPA Requirements in California?

To understand CPA requirements in California, you have to look at three main pillars: education, exam completion, and experience. California is among the most rigorous states when it comes to CPA licensure—so if someone holds that title, you can trust their qualifications.

According to the California Board of Accountancy, here’s a simplified breakdown of California CPA license requirements:

Education: 150 semester hours with specific coursework in accounting, ethics, and business.
Exams: Must pass the Uniform CPA Examination.
Experience: At least 12 months of general accounting experience under a licensed CPA.

Simplicity Financial’s team is led by professionals who have satisfied every stage of this process and bring years of on-the-ground business insight to their work.

Step 1: Education Requirements for California CPAs

One of the most specific parts of the CPA requirements in California is the education path. To qualify, candidates must meet these thresholds:

Bachelor’s degree or higher
150 semester units, including:
- 24 units in accounting subjects
- 24 units in business-related subjects
- 10 units of ethics education
- Additional courses in accounting research and communications

Why does this matter for your business? Because CPAs with this foundation don’t just follow the numbers—they understand the broader impact of financial decisions.

Simplicity Financial pairs this technical background with practical insight to deliver real-world solutions. Learn how this training applies to services like outsourced bookkeeping and fractional CFO support.

Step 2: The Uniform CPA Exam

To be licensed, candidates must pass the Uniform CPA Exam, a four-part national exam managed by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA).

The four sections include:

Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)
Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
Regulation (REG)

It’s a notoriously difficult exam, with each section testing deep comprehension of accounting theory, ethics, tax law, and auditing standards.

Simplicity Financial’s team has not only passed the exam but leverages this expertise to support clients in nuanced areas like inheritance tax in California and multistate sales tax compliance, including Rancho Cucamonga sales tax and Corona sales tax rate planning.

Step 3: Experience Required for CPA Licensure

Another key piece of the California CPA licensure requirements is verified experience. Candidates must complete:

At least 12 months (or 2,000 hours) of general accounting experience
Supervised by a licensed CPA
In public or private accounting, government, or education

Experience must be recent (within five years of applying) and validated by the supervising CPA.

Why does this matter? Because it ensures your CPA has hands-on experience, not just academic credentials. Shaun Glenn, for example, brings years of applied accounting strategy, audit prep, and tax planning to every client engagement.

Maintaining CPA Licensure in California

Becoming licensed is just the beginning. To maintain active status, CPAs must:

Complete 80 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years
Stay current on laws, ethics, and industry practices
Remain in good standing with the California Certified Public Accountant Board

This is especially important for businesses working in highly regulated industries or managing complex compliance challenges. When you work with Simplicity Financial, you’re partnering with professionals who stay up to date and in full compliance—always.

California Society of Certified Public Accountants: A Professional Network

The California Society of Certified Public Accountants (CalCPA) is the largest statewide professional association for CPAs in the country. While membership is optional, many top professionals—including our team—stay engaged with this network to remain informed, connected, and equipped.

From legislative updates to technical training, it’s one more way we bring added value to clients. Whether you’re based near Rancho Cucamonga, Riverside, or anywhere across the state, we deliver trusted financial services supported by the highest professional standards.

Explore our Rancho Cucamonga accounting team or our Riverside tax accountant services to see how we can help you locally.

How to Become a Certified Public Accountant in California

Here’s a quick recap of how to become a certified public accountant in California:

Earn your degree and meet the 150 semester unit requirement
Pass the CPA exam
Gain supervised experience
Submit your application to the California Certified Public Accountant Board
Maintain your license through continuing education

It’s a long journey—which is why working with a licensed CPA is such a valuable investment. You’re not just hiring someone who can fill out forms. You’re getting strategic insight, verified skill, and up-to-date knowledge that helps you stay compliant and grow confidently.

Curious how our CPAs can support your business? Reach out to Simplicity Financial today 💼

Frequently Asked Questions About California CPA Requirements

What are the education CPA requirements in California?

You need 150 semester hours, including specific coursework in accounting, business, and ethics.

How hard is it to meet California CPA license requirements?

It’s one of the most demanding states in the U.S., requiring a four-part exam and one year of verified experience under a licensed CPA.

How do I verify someone’s CPA status?

Use the California certified public accountant search tool to confirm credentials and license status.

What role does the California Society of Certified Public Accountants play?

It’s a professional membership organization that offers resources, education, and advocacy for California CPAs.

Can a CPA help me with California-specific tax issues?

Yes. Simplicity Financial’s licensed professionals offer services tailored to California SDI tax limits, CA earned income tax credits, and Eastvale sales tax compliance.

Where is Simplicity Financial located?

We’re based in California and remotely serve clients across the U.S. Visit our Google Maps page or browse our main site to learn more.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or licensing advice. Please refer to the California Board of Accountancy or NASBA for official certification and licensing requirements.

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