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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Certified Public Accountant in North Dakota
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
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 North Dakota 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 ND State Board of Accountancy and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,258Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $81,100 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $77,310 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Montana | $74,400 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Montana | 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
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 | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $45,740 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $96,160 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Claims Adjuster | $59,950 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant in North Dakota?
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 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Certified Public Accountant license in North Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.