Oregon’s thriving economy and business-friendly environment make it an ideal destination for aspiring CPAs. With major employers like Nike headquartered here and the nation’s second-highest GDP growth rate according to IBISWorld, Oregon offers exceptional opportunities for accounting professionals. The state expects to add 1,510 accounting positions annually through 2028, representing a 13% growth rate that outpaces the national average.
Whether you’re drawn to Portland’s vibrant tech scene, Eugene’s growing healthcare sector, or Bend’s entrepreneurial spirit, becoming a CPA in Oregon opens doors to diverse career paths. From working with Fortune 500 companies to supporting the state’s innovative cannabis industry, Oregon CPAs enjoy both professional variety and competitive compensation.
This comprehensive guide walks you through the exact requirements and steps to earn your CPA license in Oregon, including education pathways, exam preparation, experience requirements, and ongoing professional development.
Jump to Section:
- Step 1: Meet Oregon’s Education Requirements
- Step 2: Pass the Uniform CPA Exam
- Step 3: Gain Required Professional Experience
- Step 4: Apply for Your Oregon CPA License
- Step 5: Maintain Your License Through CPE
- Oregon CPA Salary Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Step 1: Meet Oregon’s Education Requirements
The Oregon Board of Accountancy requires all CPA candidates to complete specific educational benchmarks before sitting for the CPA exam. Understanding these requirements early helps you plan your academic path efficiently.
Core Education Requirements
To qualify for CPA licensure in Oregon, you must:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution
- Complete 150 semester hours (225 quarter hours) of college credit
- Include specific accounting and business coursework in your studies
Since most bachelor’s degrees consist of only 120 semester hours, you’ll need an additional 30 credits. Popular options include:
- Master’s degree in accounting or taxation
- Post-baccalaureate certificate in accounting
- Five-year integrated CPA track programs
- Additional undergraduate coursework
Required Coursework Distribution
Oregon mandates specific coursework within your 150 credit hours:
Important: Community college credits are acceptable if they successfully transfer to your four-year degree-granting institution.
Choosing an Accredited Program
Your degree must come from an institution accredited by one of these recognized agencies:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
International Education Credentials
If you earned your degree outside the United States, you must have your transcripts evaluated by NASBA International Evaluation Services. This course-by-course evaluation ensures your education meets Oregon’s standards.
Step 2: Pass the Uniform CPA Exam
After completing your education requirements, you’re eligible to sit for the Uniform CPA Exam. This rigorous four-part examination tests your knowledge across all major accounting disciplines.
Application Process
- Download and complete the application: Obtain the Oregon Board of Accountancy CPA Exam Application
- Gather required documents:
- Completed Candidate Information Release Form
- 2″ x 2″ passport-sized photograph
- $100 application fee (check or credit card)
- Official college transcripts sent directly to the Board
- Submit your application to:
Oregon Board of Accountancy
3218 Pringle Rd SE #110
Salem, OR 97302
Exam Scheduling and Locations
Once approved, you’ll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) followed by NASBA exam fees. After paying these fees, you’ll receive a Notice to Schedule (NTS) valid for testing.
Oregon offers Prometric testing centers in:
- Portland (multiple locations)
- Eugene
- Bend
- La Grande
- Medford
For detailed information about exam content and preparation strategies, visit our comprehensive CPA exam guide.
Step 3: Gain Required Professional Experience
Oregon requires 12 months of full-time work experience (2,080 hours) under the direct supervision of a licensed CPA. This practical experience ensures you can apply theoretical knowledge in real-world situations.
Qualifying Experience Categories
Core Competencies to Demonstrate
Regardless of your experience setting, you must show proficiency in seven essential areas:
- Professional Conduct: Understanding the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct
- Organizational Assessment: Analyzing business objectives and performance metrics
- Documentation: Preparing working papers with supporting analyses
- Information Systems: Understanding transaction flows and system reliability
- Risk Assessment: Evaluating and verifying potential misstatements
- Critical Analysis: Interpreting financial data and metrics
- Communication: Expressing findings through clear, professional reports
Experience Verification Process
Your supervising CPA must:
- Review the Board’s Instructions to Supervisor/Licensee Employer
- Complete a Certificate of Experience form
- Submit verification directly to the Oregon Board
Note: If you took the CPA Exam before January 1, 2000, you need 24 months (4,160 hours) of experience.
Ethics Requirement
Complete the AICPA Professional Ethics course through their self-study program. This comprehensive course covers ethical standards essential for public practice.
Step 4: Apply for Your Oregon CPA License
With education, exam, and experience requirements complete, you’re ready to apply for your CPA certificate and permit to practice.
Application Requirements Checklist
- ✓ Bachelor’s degree earned
- ✓ 150 semester hours completed
- ✓ All four CPA exam sections passed
- ✓ 12 months of qualifying experience verified
- ✓ AICPA Professional Ethics course completed
License Application Process
- Download the Application for CPA Certificate and Permit to Practice
- Complete all sections including:
- Employment Record (past 10 years)
- Social Security Number form (notarized)
- Application fee: $159 (standard) or $165 (large wall certificate)
- Submit based on the payment method:
- Check payments: Oregon Board of Accountancy, Unit 05, P.O. Box 4395, Portland, OR 97208-4395
- Credit card payments: Oregon Board of Accountancy, 3218 Pringle Rd SE #110, Salem, OR 97302
Interstate Reciprocity
Oregon offers reciprocal licenses to CPAs from jurisdictions meeting Uniform Accountancy Act standards. Currently, only the Virgin Islands doesn’t qualify for reciprocity.
For reciprocal licenses:
- Complete the Application for Reciprocity
- Submit the Authorization for Interstate Exchange to your current licensing board
- Follow standard application procedures, including fees
International Reciprocity
Oregon recognizes Chartered Accountant credentials from:
- Australia (ICAA and CPA Australia)
- Canada (CPA Canada)
- Mexico (IMCP)
- Ireland (ICAI)
- New Zealand (NZICA)
- Hong Kong (HKICPA)
International candidates must pass the IQEX exam through NASBA and meet all other Oregon requirements.
Step 5: Maintain Your License Through CPE
Oregon CPAs must complete continuing professional education (CPE) to maintain their licenses and stay current with evolving standards.
CPE Requirements
Approved CPE Formats
Oregon accepts various learning formats:
- Professional education programs (national, state, or local)
- In-firm training programs
- University courses (1 semester hour = 15 CPE hours for credit courses)
- NASBA-approved distance learning
- Teaching or presenting (with limitations)
- Publishing professional articles
- Peer review participation (maximum 16 hours per period)
Subject Matter Guidelines
Technical subjects (unlimited hours):
- Accounting and auditing
- Taxation
- Consulting services
- Professional ethics
- Specialized industry knowledge
Non-technical subjects (maximum 16 hours per period):
- Practice management
- Leadership development
- Communication skills
- Technology applications
Documentation Requirements
Maintain records for five years, including:
- Course sponsor information
- Attendance dates and locations
- Course descriptions
- Completion certificates
- CPE hours claimed
Oregon CPA Salary Information
Oregon CPAs enjoy competitive compensation that reflects the state’s strong economy and growing business sector. Salaries vary by location, experience, and specialization.
CPA Salaries by Oregon Metro Areas
Career Progression and Specializations
After earning your CPA license, consider these high-demand specializations:
- Forensic accounting for fraud investigation
- Tax accounting for complex tax planning
- Environmental accounting for sustainability reporting
- Financial planning for wealth management
- Business valuation for M&A transactions
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a CPA in Oregon?
Most candidates complete the process in 5-6 years: 4-5 years for education (including the 150-hour requirement) and 1 year for the required professional experience. The CPA exam typically takes 6-18 months to pass all four sections.
Can I start the CPA exam before graduating?
No, Oregon requires candidates to complete their bachelor’s degree and 150 semester hours before sitting for the exam. Some states allow testing after 120 hours, but Oregon maintains stricter requirements.
What’s the CPA exam pass rate in Oregon?
Oregon’s pass rates align with national averages of approximately 50-60% for first-time candidates. Success rates improve significantly with proper preparation and quality study materials.
Do I need to live in Oregon to get an Oregon CPA license?
No residency requirement exists. However, if you plan to practice in another state, research reciprocity agreements to ensure a smooth license transfer.
How much does it cost to become a CPA in Oregon?
Total costs typically range from $3,000-$5,000, including exam fees ($1,000-1,500), application fees ($259), study materials ($2,000-3,000), and ethics course ($189). This excludes education expenses.
Can Oregon CPAs practice in other states?
Yes, through reciprocity agreements and mobility provisions. Most states recognize Oregon licenses, though some require additional applications or fees.
What happens if I fail a CPA exam section?
You can retake failed sections after receiving your score report. Oregon doesn’t limit attempts, but you must pass all four sections within an 18-month window.
Next Steps Toward Your Oregon CPA License
Now that you understand Oregon’s CPA requirements, take action:
- Evaluate your current education against the 150-hour requirement
- Research accounting degree programs to determine if additional coursework is needed
- Connect with the Oregon Society of CPAs for networking and resources
- Begin preparing for the CPA exam with quality study materials
- Identify potential employers who can provide qualifying experience
Joining professional organizations like the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and the Oregon Society of CPAs provides valuable benefits, including CPE opportunities, career resources, and professional networking.
Whether you envision yourself working with Portland’s innovative startups, supporting Oregon’s agricultural businesses, or building your own practice, your CPA license opens doors throughout the state’s diverse economy. Start your journey today by requesting information from accredited accounting programs.
