Career Guide

CPE Requirements by State

What you need to maintain your CPA license after passing the exam

Most states require approximately 40 CPE hours per year (annualized)

Nearly all states require ethics CPE (typically 2-8 hours per period)

Failure to complete CPE can result in license suspension and fines

Free CPE is available from CPAacademy.org, IRS webinars, and state societies

After passing the CPA exam and getting licensed, you must complete Continuing Professional Education (CPE) to maintain your license. Requirements vary by state — from 40 hours annually to 120 hours every three years. This guide covers what you need to know.

Last updated: July 27, 2026

By Brennan KolarFounder, Atlas CPA Index

What Is CPE and Why It Matters

Continuing Skilled Education (CPE) is mandatory ongoing training that keeps CPAs current on accounting standards, tax law changes, ethics, and professional practices. State boards audit CPE compliance and can suspend your license for non-compliance.

CPE ensures CPAs stay current on evolving standards (ASU, IRC changes, etc.)




State boards conduct random audits — retain certificates for 5+ years
Using the "CPA" title with a lapsed license is illegal in most states
CPE requirements begin after initial licensure, not after passing the exam

CPE Reporting Cycles

States use annual, biennial (2-year), or triennial (3-year) reporting cycles. Despite different cycles, the annualized rate is remarkably consistent at about 40 hours per year.

Annual (40 hours/year): Alabama, Connecticut, Mississippi, New York, and others
Biennial (80 hours/2 years): California, Georgia, Michigan, Oregon, and many others
Triennial (120 hours/3 years): Minnesota, New Jersey, and rolling three-year periods in Texas and Virginia
Most multi-year states require a minimum of 20 hours per year (Michigan is a notable exception at 40 per year); Hawaii requires 80 hours biennially with a 20-hour annual minimum

Ethics CPE Requirements

Nearly all states r

📌 CPE Requirements by State (Hyderabad)
🏢 Atlas CPA Index
📍 Hyderabad