Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Business
Certified Public Accountant Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for certified public accountant in Iowa, 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 Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Iowa Accountancy Examining Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$74,290 median (9% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#39 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 Iowa
With a median salary of 74,290, Certified Public Accountants in Iowa earn 9% below the national median of $81,680. Iowa ranks #39 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median annual salary
$74,290Hourly estimate
$35.729% below national median
Difference: -$7,390
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCertified Public Accountant Salary Ranking
#39 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $74,290 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $81,100 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $78,150 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $79,300 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $73,210 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $69,980 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $77,310 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Iowa Accountancy Examining Board
6200 Park Avenue Des Moines, IA 50321, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA, 50309
Phone: 5157259022
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $86,990 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $94,500 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $81,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $63,770 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant in Iowa?
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 Iowa?
Iowa 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 Iowa?
The board typically expects Degree required for Certified Public Accountant licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Certified Public Accountant salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Certified Public Accountants in Iowa is 74,290. Salaries range from $48,300 (10th percentile) to $121,940 (90th percentile).
How does the Certified Public Accountant salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Certified Public Accountants in Iowa earn 9% below the national median of $81,680, with a state median of 74,290.
How many Certified Public Accountants work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 13,970 Certified Public Accountants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Certified Public Accountant license to Iowa 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 Iowa?
The licensing agency is Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing / Iowa Accountancy Examining Board. Review agency details at http://www.plb.iowa.gov/.