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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Certified Public Accountant in Rhode Island
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
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 Rhode Island 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 RI Department of Business Regulation~Board of Accountancy and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,294Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $96,580 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $89,630 | No educational requirements | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Massachusetts | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Connecticut | 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
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 | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $57,250 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $112,250 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Claims Adjuster | $83,480 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant in Rhode Island?
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 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. 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.
How often do you renew a Certified Public Accountant license in Rhode Island?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.