AICPA & NASBA Propose New CPA Licensure Pathway: Open for Public Comment Soon

The AICPA and NASBA are proposing updates to the Uniform Accountancy Act (UAA) that could create a new, alternative pathway to CPA licensure while also adjusting practice mobility requirements.

Under the proposed changes, individuals could earn a CPA license under a new pathway by:

• Earning a bachelor’s degree (with required accounting and business courses),
• Completing two years of professional experience and 

This third pathway would exist alongside the current options:

1. Earning a master’s degree plus one year of experience
2. Completing 150 credit hours (bachelor’s + 30 additional credits) plus one year of experience

All pathways would still require individuals to pass the CPA Exam. 

These proposed updates aim to maintain the integrity of the CPA license while addressing evolving workforce and education trends.

Additionally, the changes include a shift to an individual-based practice privilege model, which would help protect CPAs' ability to work across state lines.

Once published, the proposed UAA language will be open for public comment for 60 days. The UAA serves as a national model for state legislatures and boards of accountancy, offering guidance on CPA licensure standards.

We’ll keep you updated on this important development and how it may impact CPAs in Oklahoma. Stay tuned for details on the public comment period.