Staying Compliant: Understanding CPA CPE Requirements

As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), maintaining your license isn’t just about staying updated with industry trends—it’s a regulatory necessity. Each state has its own CPA CPE requirements, making it crucial to understand the specific continuing education obligations to stay compliant. Falling behind can result in penalties, license suspension, or even revocation.

In this guide, we’ll break down CPA continuing education requirements across states, helping you stay informed and proactive in your professional development.

Why CPA CPE Matters

CPE (Continuing Professional Education) is mandatory for CPAs to ensure they remain knowledgeable about evolving accounting standards, tax laws, and ethical practices. Whether you’re an established CPA or just renewing your license, understanding CPE credits for CPA compliance is non-negotiable.

Failing to meet CPE requirements can lead to regulatory consequences, making it essential to stay ahead of deadlines and requirements.

Key CPA CPE Requirements Across States

While CPE requirements vary, most states follow these common guidelines:

1. Total CPE Credits Required: Typically, CPAs must complete 40 hours annually or 80–120 hours every two to three years.

2. Ethics Requirement: Many states mandate 4 hours of ethics training as part of their CPE credits.

3. Reporting Period: Some states follow a calendar-year cycle, while others operate on a rolling period.

4. Subject Requirements: Some states specify a certain number of credits in taxation, auditing, or regulatory review.

5. Live vs. Self-Study: Some states require a portion of CPE credits to be from live webinars or in-person training, while others accept self-study formats.

State-Specific CPA Continuing Education Requirements

Here’s a quick look at some state-specific accounting CPE requirements:

1. California: Requires 80 CPE hours every two years, including 4 hours of ethics and 2 hours of regulatory review.

2. Texas: 120 CPE hours every three years with at least 20 hours annually.

3. New York: Requires 40 hours per year or 24 hours in a specialized subject area.

4. Florida: 80 hours every two years, including ethics and specific accounting courses.

5. Illinois: 120 hours every three years, including an ethics course.

For a full breakdown by state, check out our in-depth state-wise CPA CPE requirements.

Choosing the Right CPE Course

When selecting a CPE course, consider:

1. State Accreditation: Ensure the course meets your state’s requirements.

2. Format Options: Live webinars, on-demand courses, or in-person training.

3. Topic Relevance: Taxation, auditing, regulatory ethics, or industry-specific courses.

4. Cost & Convenience: Balance affordability with quality content.

Key Trends in CPA CPE for 2025

1. AI & Automation in Accounting: Courses covering AI-driven financial analysis are in high demand.

2. Cybersecurity for CPAs: Understanding data protection regulations is now essential.

3. Remote Learning Growth: More states are accepting fully online CPE courses.

4. ESG Reporting & Compliance: Sustainability reporting is becoming a hot topic in accounting.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Meeting your CPA CPE requirement doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By staying informed about your state’s regulations and choosing the right CPE courses, you can maintain compliance effortlessly.

Stay ahead of the curve by exploring CPA CPE courses and fulfilling your credits on time. Don’t risk your license—take action today!