Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Business
Certified Public Accountant Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for certified public accountant in Virginia, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Certified Public Accountant in Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Virginia Board of Accountancy
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$84,190 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#11 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 Virginia
With a median salary of 84,190, Certified Public Accountants in Virginia earn 3% above the national median of $81,680. Virginia ranks #11 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$84,190Hourly estimate
$40.483% above national median
Difference: +$2,510
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCertified Public Accountant Salary Ranking
#11 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $84,190 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $84,890 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $74,520 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $72,220 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $75,500 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $80,490 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 50 | 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
Virginia Board of Accountancy
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 402, Richmond, VA, 23233-1485
Phone: 8043678505
Related Careers in Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $97,140 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $96,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $99,990 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $60,360 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Virginia lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Certified Public Accountants.
What education do you need to become a Certified Public Accountant in Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Certified Public Accountant licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Certified Public Accountant salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Certified Public Accountants in Virginia is 84,190. Salaries range from $57,150 (10th percentile) to $145,750 (90th percentile).
How does the Certified Public Accountant salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Certified Public Accountants in Virginia earn 3% above the national median of $81,680, with a state median of 84,190.
How many Certified Public Accountants work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 50,220 Certified Public Accountants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Certified Public Accountant license to Virginia 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 Virginia?
The licensing agency is Virginia Board of Accountancy. Review agency details at https://boa.virginia.gov/.