Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Business
Certified Public Accountant Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for certified public accountant in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island
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
RI Department of Business Regulation • Board of Accountancy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$90,040 median (10% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#6 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 Rhode Island
With a median salary of 90,040, Certified Public Accountants in Rhode Island earn 10% above the national median of $81,680. Rhode Island ranks #6 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$90,040Hourly estimate
$43.2910% above national median
Difference: +$8,360
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCertified Public Accountant Salary Ranking
#6 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $90,040 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $96,580 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $89,630 | No educational requirements | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- 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
RI Department of Business Regulation • Board of Accountancy
560 Jefferson Blvd, First Floor, Warwick, RI, 02886
Phone: 4018895446
Related Careers in Rhode Island
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $106,950 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $112,250 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $100,880 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $51,990 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant in Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island?
Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The board typically expects Degree required for Certified Public Accountant licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Certified Public Accountant salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Certified Public Accountants in Rhode Island is 90,040. Salaries range from $58,970 (10th percentile) to $145,290 (90th percentile).
How does the Certified Public Accountant salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Certified Public Accountants in Rhode Island earn 10% above the national median of $81,680, with a state median of 90,040.
How many Certified Public Accountants work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 5,980 Certified Public Accountants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Certified Public Accountant license to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Business Regulation / Board of Accountancy. Review agency details at https://dbr.ri.gov/divisions/accountancy.