If you’re thinking about becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), there’s more to it than just passing the exam. Each state has its own specific path to licensure, including education, testing, and experience requirements.
The good news? Texas doesn’t require U.S. citizenship or even in-state residency to become a CPA. That means you can live almost anywhere and still qualify—unlike some states with stricter requirements.
So, if you’re ready to take the first step toward a respected and rewarding career in accounting, here’s exactly how to become a CPA in Texas.
In Texas, you must earn an undergraduate or graduate degree from an accredited college or university recognized by the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy (TSBPA). You must also complete at least 150 semester hours of courses approved by the TSBPA, which includes several other semester hour requirements, before you can apply to take the CPA exam.
The next step in becoming a CPA in Texas is to study for and pass the CPA exam. As of 2024, the exam consists of four parts, each lasting four hours. Though some changes are made nearly every year to the exam, significant changes were made in 2024. Now, all people taking the exam must pass three core sections and choose from one of the following three discipline sections:
One important fact to note is that the CPA exam is in a uniform format, meaning the content and structure are the same exam from state to state, though requirements do vary by jurisdiction, such as work experience, education, and residency. In addition, passing this exam is a major step toward becoming a CPA, but it doesn’t make you a licensed CPA.
Texas CPA licensure requirements include working under the guidance of a CPA for one year and passing a TSBPA-mandated professional conduct exam. Though there is extra effort involved in becoming a licensed CPA, the advantages are considerable. Licensed CPAs earn up to 15% more than other accountants. CPA is a widely respected title and having it on your resume can help you stand out among other employment candidates.
As we’ve discussed, education is the first step on the path to becoming a CPA. The University of Texas Permian Basin’s AACSB-accredited College of Business offers 100% online programs that provide the foundation you’ll need to enter this rewarding field. Each online course features the same curriculum used in our campus-based courses and is led by the same acclaimed faculty and CPAs. Your program choice will depend on your current education level.
A bachelor’s degree is usually a minimum requirement to be hired as an accountant. Our online Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting can prepare you for an accounting position or an associated position. During our program, you’ll learn how to use the tools required to evaluate and remedy accounting issues affecting energy, government/non-profit, healthcare, and other specialized sectors critical to our economy.
Our online Master of Professional Accountancy program offers courses covering all of the topics required for CPA certification in Texas. Adding this degree to your resume can give you an advantage in your job search. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, some employers give preferential treatment to job candidates holding a master’s degree in accounting. You may be able to complete this highly valued degree in as little as one year.
The 100% online, asynchronous format of both programs makes earning your degree a flexible experience. If you’ve got adequate internet access, you’ve got program access! You can complete coursework on your own schedule from practically any location in the world. This is especially beneficial if you have ongoing professional and/or personal commitments. Whether you live in Tennessee or Tasmania, state board requirements and our online program format mean geography needn’t stop you from becoming a Texas CPA.
Begin your path to becoming a Texas CPA by earning an online degree from UTPB!
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