2026 data Colorado board official source

Colorado Certified Public Accountant (CPA) License Requirements

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

Provides accounting and auditing services. Requires Uniform CPA Exam.

What the Colorado data shows for Certified Public Accountant (CPA)s

Becoming a licensed certified public accountant (cpa) in Colorado means clearing a defined set of hurdles: board-approved training, a passing score on Uniform CPA Examination, and 1 year of supervised work experience, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. Colorado regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Bachelors Degree with 150 credit hours".

The initial price tag is $433, and renewal costs $348 every 2 years. Maintaining the license requires 80 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

For certified public accountant (cpa)s, the reciprocity picture is: CPA mobility: practice rights in all 55 US jurisdictions.

Licensing Requirements in Colorado

Education / Training Hours
Bachelors Degree with 150 credit hours
Not specified
Exam Requirement
Uniform CPA Examination
Required
Initial License Fee
$433
Renewal Fee
$348
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
80 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Work Experience Required
1 year
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Colorado licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Colorado?
In Colorado, the license path calls for, a passing score on Uniform CPA Examination, and a $433 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Colorado?
Certification as a certified public accountant (cpa) in Colorado means clearing the state's checklist plus 1 year of work experience, and a passing exam score. The Colorado licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license to Colorado from another state?
For certified public accountant (cpa)s, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: CPA mobility: practice rights in all 55 US jurisdictions. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Colorado licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Colorado require a background check for Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensing?
Yes, Colorado requires a criminal background check as part of the certified public accountant (cpa) licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Colorado?
Colorado ties continued certified public accountant (cpa) licensure to 80 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $348 renewal fee.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites