Utah’s thriving economy and business-friendly environment create exceptional opportunities for aspiring CPAs. The state ranks 8th nationally for business environment and boasts the third-fastest GDP growth rate, according to U.S. News & World Report and IBISWorld research.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Utah CPA requirements, from education and exam preparation to licensing and salary expectations. Whether you’re starting your accounting degree or transitioning from another state, we’ll walk you through each step of becoming a licensed CPA in Utah.
Quick Navigation:
- Utah CPA Salary Information
- Get Your Education in Utah
- Take the Uniform CPA Exam in Utah
- Gain the Necessary Experience in Utah
- Get Your Utah CPA License
- Continuing Education in Utah
- Frequently Asked Questions
Utah CPA Salary Information
Understanding potential earnings helps you make informed career decisions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), accountants and auditors in Utah earn competitive salaries that reflect the state’s growing demand for financial professionals.
The Utah Department of Labor projects a remarkable 31% increase in accounting and auditing jobs through 2028, significantly outpacing the national average. This growth translates to excellent job security and advancement opportunities for new CPAs.
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.
1. Get Your Education – Meet CPA Degree Requirements in Utah
Utah requires all CPA candidates to complete 150 semester hours of college credit with at least a bachelor’s degree. Understanding your educational pathway options is crucial for efficient preparation.
Accreditation Requirements
The Utah Board of Accountancy accepts credits from institutions accredited by these organizations:
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
- Regional accreditors, including NWAC, NCA, Middle States, NEASC, SACS, and WASC
For foreign credentials, evaluation by NACES or NASBA International Evaluation Services is required.
Four Educational Pathways to Utah CPA Licensure
Utah offers four distinct pathways to meet CPA education requirements. Choose the path that best aligns with your current education and career goals:
Path 1: Graduate Degree in Accounting
The most straightforward route requires earning an AACSB or ACBSP-accredited graduate degree in accounting. This path typically takes 1-2 years post-bachelor’s and provides comprehensive preparation for the CPA exam.
Path 2: MBA or Graduate Tax Degree
Earn an AACSB or ACBSP-accredited MBA or Master’s in Taxation, plus one of these course outlines:
Outline A: Complete courses in:
- Auditing
- Financial accounting
- Taxation
- Management accounting
Outline B: 15 graduate-level accounting semester hours covering the four core areas above
Outline C: Equivalent combination of upper-level undergraduate and graduate accounting credits (1 graduate hour = 1.6 undergraduate hours)
Path 3: Bachelor’s in Business/Accounting Plus Additional Credits
This path requires a bachelor’s degree plus 30 additional semester hours structured as:
Path 4: Any Bachelor’s Degree Plus Specific Coursework
For career changers, this path requires:
- 30 semester hours in business fundamentals (computers, business law, economics, finance, ethics, communication, statistics, business administration)
- 24 semester hours in upper-level accounting (finance, auditing, cost/managerial, taxes, systems)
- 30 additional hours beyond bachelor’s degree requirements
Important: Online courses, CLEP credits, and CPA review courses count if accepted by an accredited institution. Community college credits must transfer to your degree-granting institution.
2. Take The Uniform CPA Exam
Utah allows exam candidates with a bachelor’s degree and 135 of the required 150 semester hours to sit for the Uniform CPA Exam.
Application Process
- Apply through NASBA: Register online at CPA Examination Services or mail applications to:CPA Examination Services-UT
P.O. Box 198469
Nashville, TN 37219 - Submit Required Documents:
- Official transcripts showing bachelor’s degree (sealed envelope)
- ADA accommodation forms if needed
- Interstate exchange form for transferred exam credits
- Foreign evaluation for international credentials
- Application fees
- Schedule Your Exam: After receiving your Notice to Schedule (NTS), book your exam through Prometric
Utah Testing Locations
- Taylorsville
- Lindon
- Salt Lake City
Contact NASBA at 800-CPA-EXAM for special accommodations or additional information.
3. Gain The Necessary Experience
Utah requires one year (2,000 hours) of accounting experience before licensure. This experience shapes your professional skills and prepares you for independent practice.
Required Examinations
Before applying for licensure, complete these two exams:
- AICPA Professional Ethics Course: Pass with 90% or higher. Order materials from the AICPA Store
- Utah Laws and Rules Exam: Apply through PSI Examination Services. Topics include:
- Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing Act
- General Rules of the Division
- CPA Licensing Act and Rules
Experience Requirements
Your accounting experience must meet these criteria:
- Apply auditing and accounting skills from your education
- Be supervised by a licensed CPA
- Can be paid or volunteer work
- Documented on the official Certification form
4. Get Your Utah CPA License
After meeting all requirements, you’re ready to apply for your Utah CPA license.
Application Checklist
- ✓ Complete 150 semester hours with a bachelor’s degree
- ✓ Pass all four CPA exam sections
- ✓ Pass AICPA Ethics Exam (90%+)
- ✓ Pass Utah Laws and Rules Exam
- ✓ Official transcripts (sealed)
- ✓ Verified experience certification
- ✓ Application fees
Submit your Application for Licensure and supporting documents to:
Utah Division of Occupational & Professional Licensing
P.O. Box 146741
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6741
Licensure by Endorsement
Current CPAs from other states can apply for Utah licensure by endorsement. Additional requirements include:
- Verification from your current state board
- 300 hours of audit experience
- 10,000 hours of professional experience in the past 10 years
- Employment verification letters
International CPA Reciprocity
CPAs from these countries may qualify for reciprocal licensure via the International Qualification Examination (IQEX):
- Australia (ICAA)
- Canada (CICA)
- Ireland (ICAI)
- Mexico (IMCP)
- New Zealand (NZICA)
- Hong Kong (HKICPA)
5. Maintain Your Utah CPA License Through Continuing Professional Education
Utah CPAs must complete 80 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) every two years to maintain licensure.
CPE Requirements
Approved CPE Topics
Core subjects: Accounting, auditing, consulting, management, ethics, taxation
Related subjects (if relevant to practice): Information technology, communication, statistics, economics, business law, specialized industries
Accepted Formats
- Group study programs
- Self-study courses
- University credit/non-credit courses
- Teaching or instructing
- Publishing articles or books
- Workshops and seminars
- Internet-based programs
Find approved CPE programs through:
- Utah Association of CPAs
- American Institute of CPAs
- NASBA National Registry
- Utah’s accredited colleges and universities
Career Advancement Opportunities
Consider specializing in high-demand areas:
- Forensic accounting
- Managerial accounting
- Governmental accounting
- Tax accounting
- Financial planning and advisory
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a CPA in Utah
How long does it take to become a CPA in Utah?
Typically 5-6 years total: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 1-2 years for additional credits to reach 150 hours, plus time for exam preparation and gaining required experience. Most candidates complete the entire process within 6-7 years.
What is the CPA exam pass rate in Utah?
Utah CPA exam pass rates typically range from 45-60% per section, aligning with national averages. The pass rate varies by exam section, with AUD (Auditing) and BEC (Business Environment) generally having higher pass rates than FAR (Financial Accounting) and REG (Regulation).
Can I become a CPA in Utah with an online degree?
Yes, as long as the online program is properly accredited by AACSB, ACBSP, or regional accreditors recognized by the Utah Board of Accountancy. Many Utah CPAs have successfully completed their education through accredited online programs.
How much does it cost to become a CPA in Utah?
Total costs typically range from $3,000-$5,000, including exam fees ($1,000-$1,500), application fees ($200-$300), review courses ($2,000-$3,000), and licensing fees. Educational costs vary significantly based on your chosen institution.
Can I start working before completing all CPA requirements?
Yes, many accounting firms hire candidates who have passed the CPA exam but haven’t yet met experience requirements. You can work under a licensed CPA’s supervision while completing your experience hours.
What’s the difference between Utah CPA requirements and other states?
Utah’s 150-hour education requirement is standard nationwide, but the state offers more flexibility with four distinct educational pathways. Utah’s one-year experience requirement is less than some states that require two years.
Ready to start your Utah CPA journey? Explore accredited accounting programs in Utah to find the right educational path for your career goals.
