Montana’s rapidly growing economy is creating unprecedented opportunities for CPAs. With the state’s population growing by 10% according to the 2020 census and small businesses employing over 65% of the workforce, the demand for qualified accounting professionals continues to surge. The Montana Department of Labor & Industry projects an impressive 11.5% growth in accounting jobs through 2028—nearly double the national average.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of becoming a licensed CPA in Montana, from education requirements to maintaining your license. Whether you’re just starting your accounting journey or looking to advance your career with a CPA license, you’ll find everything you need to know about Montana’s specific requirements and processes.
Montana offers CPAs diverse career opportunities across industries including energy, agriculture, tourism, and a thriving small business sector—all while enjoying the state’s renowned quality of life and outdoor recreation.
Montana CPA Requirements at a Glance
- Education Requirements: 150 semester hours, including specific accounting coursework
- CPA Exam: Pass all four sections of the Uniform CPA Examination
- Experience: One year (2,000 hours) of qualifying accounting experience
- Licensure: Apply for Certificate and Permit to Practice
- Continuing Education: 120 hours every three years
- Salary Information: Average CPA salary data for Montana
- Frequently Asked Questions: Common questions about becoming a Montana CPA
Step 1: Meet Montana’s Education Requirements
The Montana Board of Public Accountants requires all CPA candidates to complete 150 semester hours of college credit with specific coursework in accounting and business. This goes beyond the typical 120-hour bachelor’s degree, making additional education necessary for most candidates.
Educational Path Options
Montana CPAs typically meet the 150-hour requirement through one of these paths:
- Bachelor’s + Master’s Degree: Complete a bachelor’s in accounting followed by a master’s in accounting (MSA or MAcc)
- Bachelor’s + Graduate Certificate: Earn your bachelor’s degree plus a post-baccalaureate certificate in accounting
- Integrated 5-Year Program: Enroll in a combined bachelor’s/master’s program designed specifically for CPA candidates
- Bachelor’s + Additional Coursework: Complete extra undergraduate credits to reach 150 hours
Required Coursework
Within your 150 semester hours, Montana requires specific accounting and business coursework:
Accreditation Requirements
Your college or university must be accredited by one of these regional accrediting bodies:
- Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
- Higher Learning Commission
- New England Commission of Higher Education
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- WASC Senior College and University Commission
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
International Graduates: If you graduated from a non-U.S. institution, you must have your credentials evaluated by Foreign Academic Credentials Service (FACS). The evaluation must be submitted directly to CPA Examination Services.
Step 2: Pass the Uniform CPA Examination
Once you’ve met Montana’s educational requirements, you’re eligible to sit for the Uniform CPA Examination. This comprehensive exam tests your knowledge across four sections: Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Business Environment and Concepts (BEC), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), and Regulation (REG).
Application Process
- Register Online: Visit CPA Examination Services (CPAES) to begin your application
- Submit Required Documents:
- Official college transcripts (sent directly from your institution to CPAES)
- Completed application with attestation and affidavit form (notarized)
- 2″ x 2″ passport-style photograph
- ADA Modification Form (if requesting disability accommodations)
- Application fees
- Receive Your Notice to Schedule (NTS): Once approved, NASBA will send your NTS via your preferred method (mail, fax, or email)
- Schedule Your Exam: Use your NTS to schedule exam sections at Prometric testing centers in Helena or Billings
Exam Preparation Tips
Success on the CPA exam requires dedicated preparation. Consider these resources:
- Review our guide on how to study for the CPA exam
- Explore proven study tips and strategies
- Understand CPA score release dates
Step 3: Gain Qualifying Experience
Montana is a two-tier licensing state, meaning you can earn a CPA Certificate after passing the exam, but you need qualifying experience to obtain a Permit to Practice and actively work as a CPA.
Experience Requirements
- Duration: One year (2,000 hours) of accounting experience
- Timing: Must be completed within three years of applying for your Permit to Practice
- Settings: Experience can be gained in:
- Public accounting firms
- Government agencies
- Private industry
- Academia (teaching accounting)
- Supervision: Must be verified by a CPA with an active Montana Permit to Practice
Ethics Requirement
Before applying for licensure, you must pass the AICPA Professional Ethics Course. This self-study course covers professional responsibilities and ethical standards for CPAs.
Step 4: Apply for Your Montana CPA License
Montana offers two credentials:
- CPA Certificate: Allows you to use the CPA designation but not practice public accounting
- Permit to Practice: Grants full practice privileges as an active CPA
Application Requirements
Application Process
- Complete the Application for Original Certification/Permit to Practice
- Submit supporting documents:
- Three Verification of Moral Character references
- Official transcripts (sent directly from your institution)
- Financial Statement Disclosure Form
- Evidence of Satisfaction of Experience Requirement (signed by supervising CPA)
- Pay the $150 application fee
- Mail to: Montana Board of Public Accountants, 301 South Park – 4th Floor, P.O. Box 200513, Helena, MT 59620-0513
Reciprocity for Out-of-State CPAs
If you’re already a licensed CPA in another state, Montana offers reciprocity through its mobility provisions. You’ll need to:
- Complete the Transfer of Licensure Application
- Provide moral character references and transcripts
- Show proof of passing the AICPA Ethics Exam
- Pay a $300 fee for both the Certificate and Permit to Practice
Step 5: Maintain Your License Through Continuing Education
Montana CPAs must complete ongoing professional education to maintain their licenses and stay current with evolving standards and regulations.
CPE Requirements
- Total Hours: 120 hours every three years
- Ethics Component: Minimum 2 hours in ethics
- Reporting Period: Ends June 30
- Carryover Rules:
- Excess hours from May-June can carry forward to the next period
- July-August hours can be carried back if needed to meet requirements
Acceptable CPE Topics
Approved CPE Formats
- Professional organization programs and conferences
- University credit and non-credit courses
- In-firm training programs
- Self-study programs approved by NASBA Registry
- Webinars and online courses
Montana CPA Salary Information
Montana offers competitive salaries for CPAs, with compensation varying by location and experience level. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the accounting profession in Montana shows strong earning potential across the state.
Statewide Salary Data
Salary by Major Cities
Montana CPAs often enjoy additional benefits beyond base salary, including:
- Flexible work arrangements and remote opportunities
- Lower cost of living compared to many states
- Strong work-life balance
- Opportunities in diverse industries
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.
Career Opportunities for Montana CPAs
Montana’s diverse economy provides CPAs with opportunities across multiple sectors:
- Energy and Natural Resources: Oil, gas, and renewable energy companies
- Agriculture: Ranching, farming, and agricultural technology businesses
- Tourism and Hospitality: Hotels, resorts, and outdoor recreation companies
- Healthcare: Hospitals, clinics, and healthcare systems
- Small Business: Local businesses represent 65% of state employment
- Government: State, local, and federal agencies
Consider specializing in areas like:
Professional Resources and Organizations
Joining professional organizations provides networking opportunities, continuing education, and career advancement resources:
- Montana Society of Certified Public Accountants (MSCPA): Your state professional organization offering local networking, CPE opportunities, and advocacy
- American Institute of CPAs (AICPA): National organization providing resources, certifications, and professional standards
- Montana Board of Public Accountants: Your licensing board for official requirements and updates
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a CPA in Montana?
Most candidates complete the process in 5-7 years: 4-5 years for education (bachelor’s plus additional credits), 6-18 months for the CPA exam, and 1 year for experience. However, timelines vary based on individual circumstances and whether you pursue full-time or part-time education.
Can I sit for the CPA exam before graduating?
No, Montana requires candidates to complete all 150 credit hours before sitting for the CPA exam. Some states allow early testing, but Montana is not one of them.
Does Montana have a residency requirement for CPAs?
No, Montana does not require CPA candidates or license holders to be state residents. You can obtain a Montana CPA license regardless of where you live.
What’s the difference between a CPA Certificate and Permit to Practice?
A CPA Certificate allows you to use the CPA designation but doesn’t grant practice privileges. A Permit to Practice allows you to perform attest services, sign audit reports, and actively practice as a CPA. Most employers require the Permit to Practice.
How much does it cost to become a CPA in Montana?
Total costs typically range from $3,000-$5,000, including exam fees (approximately $1,000), application fees ($150), study materials ($2,000-$3,000), and ethics course ($150-$200). This doesn’t include education costs.
Can I transfer my CPA license to Montana from another state?
Yes, Montana offers reciprocity for CPAs licensed in other U.S. states and certain international jurisdictions. You’ll need to complete a transfer application and meet Montana’s requirements.
What happens if I don’t complete my CPE requirements on time?
Failure to complete CPE requirements can result in license suspension or revocation. If you’re short on hours, you can carry back up to two months of CPE from the following period. Contact the Board immediately if you’re having difficulty meeting requirements.
Start Your Montana CPA Journey Today
Becoming a CPA in Montana opens doors to a rewarding career with excellent growth prospects and competitive compensation. The state’s thriving economy, combined with an exceptional quality of life, makes Montana an ideal place to build your accounting career.
Whether you’re just beginning your accounting education or ready to take the next step toward CPA licensure, Montana offers clear pathways to success. Start by researching accredited accounting programs that meet Montana’s requirements, and begin building the foundation for your CPA career.
For more information about specific requirements or to begin your application, visit the Montana Board of Public Accountants or explore our comprehensive guides to becoming a CPA and understanding the difference between CPAs and accountants.
