Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AL Board of Business
Certified Public Accountant Licensing in Alabama
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for certified public accountant in Alabama, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Certified Public Accountant in Alabama
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Alabama State Board of Public Accountancy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$71,070 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#44 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Alabama
With a median salary of 71,070, Certified Public Accountants in Alabama earn 13% below the national median of $81,680. Alabama ranks #44 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$71,070Hourly estimate
$34.1713% below national median
Difference: -$10,610
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCertified Public Accountant Salary Ranking
#44 of 50 statesfor Certified Public Accountant median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New York | 101,780 |
| #2 | New Jersey | 101,340 |
| #3 | Massachusetts | 96,580 |
| #4 | California | 96,360 |
| #5 | Washington | 96,180 |
Nearby States Comparison
Certified Public Accountant licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $71,070 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $75,500 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $80,100 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Florida | $78,470 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $64,170 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Florida | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Alabama State Board of Public Accountancy
P.O. Box 300375, Montgomery, AL, 36130
Phone: 3342425700
Related Careers in Alabama
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $94,170 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $98,100 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $79,600 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $48,450 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant in Alabama?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Certified Public Accountants in Alabama?
Alabama lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Certified Public Accountants.
What education do you need to become a Certified Public Accountant in Alabama?
The board typically expects Degree required for Certified Public Accountant licensure in Alabama.
What is the typical Certified Public Accountant salary in Alabama?
The median annual salary for Certified Public Accountants in Alabama is 71,070. Salaries range from $48,600 (10th percentile) to $123,410 (90th percentile).
How does the Certified Public Accountant salary in Alabama compare to the national average?
Certified Public Accountants in Alabama earn 13% below the national median of $81,680, with a state median of 71,070.
How many Certified Public Accountants work in Alabama?
Alabama employs approximately 25,420 Certified Public Accountants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Certified Public Accountant license to Alabama from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Certified Public Accountants in Alabama?
The licensing agency is Alabama State Board of Public Accountancy. Review agency details at https://www.asbpa.alabama.gov/.