Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MD Board of Business
Certified Public Accountant Licensing in Maryland
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for certified public accountant in Maryland, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Certified Public Accountant in Maryland
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Maryland Department of Labor • Maryland Board of Public Accountancy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$84,890 median (4% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#9 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 Maryland
With a median salary of 84,890, Certified Public Accountants in Maryland earn 4% above the national median of $81,680. Maryland ranks #9 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$84,890Hourly estimate
$40.814% above national median
Difference: +$3,210
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCertified Public Accountant Salary Ranking
#9 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $84,890 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $77,330 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $84,560 | Degree required | Third-party exam 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 |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 56 | Medium | 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. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Maryland Department of Labor • Maryland Board of Public Accountancy
1100 N Eutaw Street, Room 121, Baltimore, MD, 21201
Phone: 4102306258
Related Careers in Maryland
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $99,210 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $100,320 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $122,510 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $46,080 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant in Maryland?
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 is the typical Certified Public Accountant salary in Maryland?
The median annual salary for Certified Public Accountants in Maryland is 84,890. Salaries range from $59,040 (10th percentile) to $150,560 (90th percentile).
How does the Certified Public Accountant salary in Maryland compare to the national average?
Certified Public Accountants in Maryland earn 4% above the national median of $81,680, with a state median of 84,890.
How many Certified Public Accountants work in Maryland?
Maryland employs approximately 25,630 Certified Public Accountants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Certified Public Accountant license to Maryland from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Certified Public Accountants in Maryland?
The licensing agency is Maryland Department of Labor / Maryland Board of Public Accountancy. Review agency details at https://www.dllr.state.md.us/license/cpa/.