Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Business
Certified Public Accountant Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for certified public accountant in West Virginia, 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 West Virginia
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
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
ACCOUNTANCY
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$74,520 median (9% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#37 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 West Virginia
With a median salary of 74,520, Certified Public Accountants in West Virginia earn 9% below the national median of $81,680. West Virginia ranks #37 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$74,520Hourly estimate
$35.839% below national median
Difference: -$7,160
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCertified Public Accountant Salary Ranking
#37 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $74,520 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $77,330 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $84,890 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $84,190 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $72,220 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $77,640 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 60 | 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. |
| Ohio | 50 | Low | 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
ACCOUNTANCY
See official licensing board website
Phone: 3045583557
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $86,530 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $88,200 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $77,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $50,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant in West 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 West Virginia?
West Virginia 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 West Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Certified Public Accountant licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical Certified Public Accountant salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Certified Public Accountants in West Virginia is 74,520. Salaries range from $47,400 (10th percentile) to $113,730 (90th percentile).
How does the Certified Public Accountant salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Certified Public Accountants in West Virginia earn 9% below the national median of $81,680, with a state median of 74,520.
How many Certified Public Accountants work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 5,310 Certified Public Accountants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Certified Public Accountant license to West Virginia 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 West Virginia?
The licensing agency is ACCOUNTANCY. Review agency details at http://www.boa.wv.gov/.