Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MA Board of Business
Certified Public Accountant Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for certified public accountant in Massachusetts, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Certified Public Accountant in Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Public Accountancy • Division of Professional Licensure
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$96,580 median (18% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#3 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Massachusetts eligibility requirements for Certified Public Accountant licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Board of Public Accountancy~Division of Professional Licensure and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Massachusetts
With a median salary of $96,580, Certified Public Accountants in Massachusetts earn 18% above the national median of $81,680. Massachusetts ranks #3 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,805Median annual salary
$96,580Hourly estimate
$46.4318% above national median
Difference: +$14,900
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCertified Public Accountant Salary Ranking
#3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $96,580 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New Hampshire | $82,830 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Vermont | $76,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New York | $101,780 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $89,630 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Rhode Island | $90,040 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Hampshire | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Vermont | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New York | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Rhode Island | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Board of Public Accountancy • Division of Professional Licensure
1000 Washington Street, Suite 710, Boston, MA, 02114
Phone: 6177271806
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $101,980 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $61,680 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $104,450 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Claims Adjuster | $84,340 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant in Massachusetts?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Certified Public Accountants in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The board typically expects Degree required for Certified Public Accountant licensure in Massachusetts.
What is the typical Certified Public Accountant salary in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for Certified Public Accountants in Massachusetts is $96,580. Salaries range from $64,370 (10th percentile) to $152,960 (90th percentile).
How does the Certified Public Accountant salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
Certified Public Accountants in Massachusetts earn 18% above the national median of $81,680, with a state median of $96,580.
How many Certified Public Accountants work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 45,520 Certified Public Accountants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Certified Public Accountant license to Massachusetts from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Certified Public Accountants in Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Board of Public Accountancy / Division of Professional Licensure. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/ocabr/licensee/dpl-boards/pa/.
How often do you renew a Certified Public Accountant license in Massachusetts?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.