Application Fee
See agencyVerified by LA Board of Business
Certified Public Accountant Licensing in Louisiana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for certified public accountant in Louisiana, 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 Louisiana
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
State Board of Certified Public Accountants
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$69,540 median (15% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#46 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 Louisiana
With a median salary of 69,540, Certified Public Accountants in Louisiana earn 15% below the national median of $81,680. Louisiana ranks #46 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$69,540Hourly estimate
$33.4315% below national median
Difference: -$12,140
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCertified Public Accountant Salary Ranking
#46 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | $69,540 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $64,180 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $64,170 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $80,000 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 50 | 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. |
| Texas | 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
State Board of Certified Public Accountants
601 Poydras Street, Suite 1770, New Orleans, LA, 70130
Phone: 5045661244
Related Careers in Louisiana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $77,270 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $102,350 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $78,150 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $38,890 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant in Louisiana?
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 Louisiana?
Louisiana 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 Louisiana?
The board typically expects Degree required for Certified Public Accountant licensure in Louisiana.
What is the typical Certified Public Accountant salary in Louisiana?
The median annual salary for Certified Public Accountants in Louisiana is 69,540. Salaries range from $46,950 (10th percentile) to $117,190 (90th percentile).
How does the Certified Public Accountant salary in Louisiana compare to the national average?
Certified Public Accountants in Louisiana earn 15% below the national median of $81,680, with a state median of 69,540.
How many Certified Public Accountants work in Louisiana?
Louisiana employs approximately 13,560 Certified Public Accountants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Certified Public Accountant license to Louisiana 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 Louisiana?
The licensing agency is State Board of Certified Public Accountants. Review agency details at https://www.cpaboard.state.la.us/.