Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Business
Certified Public Accountant Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for certified public accountant in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Certified Public Accountant in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Accountancy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$72,220 median (12% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#42 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 Kentucky
With a median salary of 72,220, Certified Public Accountants in Kentucky earn 12% below the national median of $81,680. Kentucky ranks #42 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$72,220Hourly estimate
$34.7212% below national median
Difference: -$9,460
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCertified Public Accountant Salary Ranking
#42 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $72,220 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $77,410 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $77,640 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $74,520 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $84,190 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $75,500 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $73,210 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $79,300 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Accountancy
332 West Broadway, Suite 310, Louisville, KY, 40202
Phone: 5025953037
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $93,230 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $100,200 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $79,100 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $45,640 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant in Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
Kentucky lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Certified Public Accountants.
What education do you need to become a Certified Public Accountant in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Certified Public Accountant licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Certified Public Accountant salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Certified Public Accountants in Kentucky is 72,220. Salaries range from $47,880 (10th percentile) to $114,800 (90th percentile).
How does the Certified Public Accountant salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Certified Public Accountants in Kentucky earn 12% below the national median of $81,680, with a state median of 72,220.
How many Certified Public Accountants work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 12,180 Certified Public Accountants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Certified Public Accountant license to Kentucky from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Commonwealth of Kentucky / Board of Accountancy. Review agency details at http://cpa.ky.gov/.