Washington D.C. stands as the epicenter of American financial regulation and policy-making, creating unique opportunities for certified public accountants. As home to the IRS, SEC, and numerous federal agencies, the District offers CPAs unparalleled access to careers in regulatory compliance, forensic accounting, and governmental finance.
Washington D.C. CPA Market Overview
- Over 5,200 licensed CPAs actively practicing in D.C. (2024)
- The average salary is 31% higher than the national median
- Unique opportunities in government agencies, Big 4 firms, and regulatory bodies
- Growing demand in forensic accounting, compliance, and federal contracting
The Greater Washington Society of CPAs reports that D.C. CPAs disproportionately fill leadership roles in organizations like the Federal Accounting Standards Advisory Board (FASAB), the Department of Commerce, and the Securities and Exchange Commission. This concentration of financial expertise makes D.C. an ideal location for ambitious accounting professionals seeking to influence national policy and regulation.
Understanding DC CPA requirements is your first step toward joining this elite professional community. This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of becoming a CPA in Washington D.C., from education and examination requirements to licensing procedures and career opportunities.
7 Steps to CPA Licensure in Washington, D.C.
- Meet Education Requirements for DC CPA License
- Pass the Uniform CPA Examination in D.C.
- Complete Professional Experience Requirements
- Apply for Your DC CPA License
- Understand CPA Salary Expectations in D.C.
- Maintain Your License Through Continuing Education
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. Meet Education Requirements for DC CPA License
The District of Columbia Board of Accountancy mandates specific educational standards for CPA licensure. Understanding these DC CPA requirements ensures you select the right academic path from the start.
Core Educational Requirements
All CPA candidates in Washington D.C. must complete:
- 150 semester hours of college credit (standard bachelor’s degree provides 120 hours)
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- 27 semester hours in accounting and business courses with specific distribution
Required Accounting Coursework (24 semester hours minimum)
Accepted Educational Institutions
The D.C. Board recognizes degrees from institutions accredited by:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (primary for D.C. area)
- Higher Learning Commission
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- New England Commission of Higher Education
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- WASC Senior College and University Commission
Pro Tip: Many D.C. area universities offer specialized 5-year CPA track programs combining undergraduate and graduate coursework to meet the 150-hour requirement efficiently.
International Education Credentials
Foreign degree holders must have their transcripts evaluated by a member organization of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). Submit the evaluation along with the Request for Evaluation of Foreign Credentials form.
2. Pass the Uniform CPA Examination in D.C.
The Uniform CPA Exam represents a significant milestone in meeting DC CPA requirements. Washington D.C. has specific eligibility criteria and testing procedures.
Exam Eligibility Requirements
To sit for the CPA exam in D.C., candidates must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree
- Complete the full 150 semester hours
- Have finished at least 27 credit hours in accounting coursework
CPA Exam Application Process
- Apply Online: Submit your application through the District of Columbia PULSE Online Portal
- Submit Documentation:
- Official transcripts sent directly to Pearson VUE
- Application fee payment (currently $195 per exam section)
- Supporting documentation as required
- Receive NTS: Upon approval, NASBA will send your Notice to Schedule
- Schedule Exam: Contact the D.C. Prometric Testing Center
D.C. Testing Location
Prometric Test Center – Washington D.C.
1660 L Street NW, Suite 204
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: (202) 833-2005
CPA Exam Structure and Scoring
Important: D.C. allows unlimited exam attempts, but you must pass all four sections within an 18-month rolling window.
3. Complete Professional Experience Requirements
Washington, D.C., follows a two-tier licensing system. After passing the CPA exam and meeting education requirements, you receive a CPA certificate. However, to practice independently, you must complete experience requirements for full licensure.
Experience Specifications
- Duration: One year (2,000 hours minimum)
- Type: Full-time or part-time employment is accepted
- Settings: Public practice, industry, government, or academia
- Supervision: Must be verified by a licensed CPA
Required Competencies
Your experience must demonstrate proficiency in:
- Accounting and auditing services
- Tax preparation and planning
- Management advisory services
- Financial analysis and reporting
- Compilation and review services
- Consulting engagements
Verification Process
Your supervising CPA must:
- Hold an active CPA license in D.C. or another U.S. jurisdiction
- Complete the Certificate of Experience form
- Submit the form directly to Pearson VUE
- Verify specific dates, hours, and competencies demonstrated
4. Apply for Your DC CPA License
After fulfilling education, examination, and experience requirements, you’re ready for the final step in meeting DC CPA requirements: license application.
Application Checklist
- ✓ 150 semester hours completed with a bachelor’s degree
- ✓ All four CPA exam sections passed
- ✓ Official transcripts submitted to Pearson VUE
- ✓ One year of verified professional experience
- ✓ Application fee paid ($220 for initial license)
Online Application Process
- Access the PULSE Portal
- Select “District of Columbia” → “Board of Accountancy”
- Choose “Submit a License Application” → “Individual” → “CPA”
- Complete all required fields and upload documentation
- Submit payment and await board review
Interstate Reciprocity and Endorsement
D.C. offers two pathways for out-of-state CPAs:
International CPA Recognition
CPAs licensed in countries with Mutual Recognition Agreements (Australia, Canada, Ireland, Mexico, New Zealand) may qualify for D.C. licensure after passing the International Qualification Examination (IQEX).
5. CPA Salary Expectations in Washington D.C.
Washington D.C. offers some of the highest CPA compensation in the nation, reflecting the region’s concentration of federal agencies, international organizations, and major corporations.
Washington D.C. Accountant and Auditor Salary Data
D.C. CPA Salary by Experience Level
Salary Comparison by Employment Sector
May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics salary data for Accountants and Auditors reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed June 2025.
Factors Influencing D.C. CPA Salaries
- Specializations: Forensic accounting and IT audit command premium salaries
- Security Clearances: Federal positions may require clearances, but offer higher compensation
- Advanced Certifications: Additional credentials (CIA, CISA, CFE) increase earning potential
- Firm Size: Big 4 firms typically offer 15-20% higher starting salaries
6. Maintain Your License Through Continuing Education
DC CPA requirements include ongoing professional development to maintain your license and stay current with evolving regulations and standards.
CPE Requirements
- Total Hours: 80 hours every two years
- Ethics Component: 4 hours of ethics training required
- Reporting Period: January 1 – December 31 (odd years)
- Carryover: Up to 20 excess hours may carry forward
Approved CPE Topics
CPE Providers and Resources
Accepted providers include:
- Greater Washington Society of CPAs – Local programs and networking
- AICPA – National programs and self-study options
- NASBA Registry approved sponsors
- Accredited colleges and universities
- Employer-sponsored training programs
Documentation Requirements
Maintain records for five years, including:
- Course completion certificates
- Program outlines and objectives
- Attendance verification
- Self-study exam scores (if applicable)
7. Frequently Asked Questions About DC CPA Requirements
How long does it take to become a CPA in Washington, D.C.?
The typical timeline is 5-6 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 1 year for additional credits (often through a master’s program), plus 1 year of required work experience. CPA exam preparation and testing typically takes 6-18 months, though this varies by individual.
What is the total cost of becoming a CPA in D.C.?
Total costs typically range from $3,500 to $5,500, including exam fees ($1,000-$1,500), review courses ($2,000-$3,500), application fees ($415 total), and miscellaneous expenses. This excludes education costs, which vary significantly by institution.
Can I practice as a CPA in D.C. with a license from another state?
Yes, through reciprocity or endorsement. If your state has substantially equivalent requirements, you may be eligible to apply for reciprocity. Otherwise, you’ll need to apply for endorsement and may need to meet additional requirements. Temporary practice permits are available for specific engagements.
What’s the difference between a CPA certificate and a license in D.C.?
A CPA certificate allows you to use the CPA designation but not practice independently. A full license, granted after completing experience requirements, permits you to offer services to the public, sign audit reports, and represent clients before the IRS.
Are there special opportunities for CPAs in Washington, D.C.?
Yes, D.C. offers unique opportunities, including positions with federal agencies (IRS, SEC, GAO), international organizations (World Bank, IMF), government contractors requiring compliance expertise, and specialized roles in forensic accounting for federal investigations.
How competitive is the D.C. CPA job market?
The D.C. market is highly competitive but offers excellent opportunities. The region has one of the lowest unemployment rates for CPAs (under 2%) and strong demand for professionals with security clearances, specialized skills, or government experience.
Next Steps: Launch Your CPA Career in Washington, D.C.
Meeting DC CPA requirements opens doors to prestigious career opportunities in the nation’s capital. Whether you aspire to influence financial policy, investigate financial crimes, or advise government contractors, your CPA license serves as the foundation for professional success.
Immediate Action Items:
- Evaluate your current education against the 150-hour requirement
- Research CPA review courses and create a study timeline
- Connect with the Greater Washington Society of CPAs for networking
- Explore D.C. area firms and agencies for experience opportunities
Remember that becoming a CPA in Washington, D.C. positions you at the intersection of accounting excellence and national policy-making. The investment in meeting these requirements pays dividends throughout your career in one of America’s most dynamic financial centers.
