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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Certified Public Accountant in West Virginia
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
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 West Virginia 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 ACCOUNTANCY and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.7%Average Weekly Wage
$1,167Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Pennsylvania | $77,330 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Maryland | $84,890 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $84,190 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $72,220 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $77,640 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Pennsylvania | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Kentucky | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Ohio | 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
ACCOUNTANCY
See official licensing board website
Phone: 3045583557
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $86,530 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $58,000 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $88,200 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Claims Adjuster | $66,020 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Certified Public Accountant in West Virginia?
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 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Certified Public Accountant license in West Virginia?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.