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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Certified Public Accountant in Massachusetts
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: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
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 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 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 6-24 months.
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 | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $82,830 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $76,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $101,780 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $89,630 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Rhode Island | $90,040 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Hampshire | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Rhode Island | 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
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 | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $104,450 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $101,320 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $48,300 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant in Massachusetts?
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 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. 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 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/.