Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MT Board of Business
Certified Public Accountant Licensing in Montana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for certified public accountant in Montana, 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 Montana
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
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Public Accountants
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$74,400 median (9% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#38 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 Montana
With a median salary of 74,400, Certified Public Accountants in Montana earn 9% below the national median of $81,680. Montana ranks #38 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$74,400Hourly estimate
$35.779% below national median
Difference: -$7,280
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCertified Public Accountant Salary Ranking
#38 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $74,400 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $72,180 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $77,310 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $77,400 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Idaho | $64,840 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 54 | 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
Board of Public Accountants
301 South Park, 4th Floor, PO Box 200513, Helena, MT, 59620-0513
Phone: 4068412389
Related Careers in Montana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $82,670 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $80,390 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $96,670 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $49,140 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant in Montana?
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 Montana?
Montana 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 Montana?
The board typically expects Degree required for Certified Public Accountant licensure in Montana.
What is the typical Certified Public Accountant salary in Montana?
The median annual salary for Certified Public Accountants in Montana is 74,400. Salaries range from $48,730 (10th percentile) to $121,140 (90th percentile).
How does the Certified Public Accountant salary in Montana compare to the national average?
Certified Public Accountants in Montana earn 9% below the national median of $81,680, with a state median of 74,400.
How many Certified Public Accountants work in Montana?
Montana employs approximately 4,680 Certified Public Accountants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Certified Public Accountant license to Montana 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 Montana?
The licensing agency is Board of Public Accountants. Review agency details at http://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/pac.