Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ND Board of Business
Certified Public Accountant Licensing in North Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for certified public accountant in North Dakota, 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 North Dakota
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
ND State Board of Accountancy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$72,180 median (12% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#43 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 North Dakota
With a median salary of 72,180, Certified Public Accountants in North Dakota earn 12% below the national median of $81,680. North Dakota ranks #43 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$72,180Hourly estimate
$34.7012% below national median
Difference: -$9,500
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCertified Public Accountant Salary Ranking
#43 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | $72,180 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $81,100 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $77,310 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $74,400 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Montana | 60 | Medium | 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
ND State Board of Accountancy
1407 24th Ave S Ste 217, Grand Forks, ND, 58201
Phone: 7017757100
Related Careers in North Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $77,640 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $96,160 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $98,990 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $76,720 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant in North Dakota?
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 North Dakota?
North Dakota 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 North Dakota?
The board typically expects Degree required for Certified Public Accountant licensure in North Dakota.
What is the typical Certified Public Accountant salary in North Dakota?
The median annual salary for Certified Public Accountants in North Dakota is 72,180. Salaries range from $49,470 (10th percentile) to $103,400 (90th percentile).
How does the Certified Public Accountant salary in North Dakota compare to the national average?
Certified Public Accountants in North Dakota earn 12% below the national median of $81,680, with a state median of 72,180.
How many Certified Public Accountants work in North Dakota?
North Dakota employs approximately 4,110 Certified Public Accountants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Certified Public Accountant license to North Dakota 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 North Dakota?
The licensing agency is ND State Board of Accountancy. Review agency details at http://www.ndsba.nd.gov/.