Applying for a CPA License in Massachusetts: FAQs

If you are unable to find the answer to your question, please contact the Massachusetts Board of Public Accountancy at mass.gov/orgs/board-of-public-accountancy or 617.727.1806.

1. How do I apply for my CPA license in Massachusetts after I pass the Exam and meet the education and experience requirements?

You will file an application with the Massachusetts Board of Public Accountancy, the licensing authority for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Several documents will be required to support your application, including character letters and experience letters from your employer(s). It will take time to gather this material. Visit mass.gov/public-accountancy-licensing and select “How to apply for an initial/reciprocal accounting license” to review a copy of the application form and checklist to help you to plan.

2. Can I apply online?

Yes, the Massachusetts Board of Public Accountancy requires you to apply online at mass.gov/public-accountancy-licensing.

3. What is the fee for an initial CPA license?

The initial fee is $175 if you have never been licensed in any jurisdiction.

4. What is the fee for a reciprocal license?

The fee for a reciprocal license is $499.

5. Will I need to include an Academic Evaluation for Certification Report (AECR)?

If you sat for the Exam before you met the 150-hour requirement or you passed the Exam in a jurisdiction other than Massachusetts, you will need to apply for an AECR through NASBA ($100) to verify that you are “eligible” for a license. To get started, visit nasba.org/licensure/nasbalicensing/massachusetts.

6. How do I document my public accounting work experience?

When you apply for your license, you will need to include a letter that describes your experience and is attested to, under the pains and penalties of perjury, and signed by a partner or shareholder. It should be written on the firm’s letterhead, addressed to the Massachusetts Board of Public Accountancy, dated within one year and bear an original signature. The content must contain your exact dates of employment, indicate the completion of the 2,000 hours and state if you were a full- or part-time employee. If you were part-time, you must also provide a detailed list of each week worked and the number of hours earned as verified by your employer.

7. How do I document my non-public work experience?

When you apply for your license, you will need to include a letter that describes your experience and is attested to, under the pains and penalties of perjury and signed by a CPA supervisor. It should be written on company letterhead, addressed to the Massachusetts Board of Public Accountancy, dated within one year and bear an original signature. The content must contain your exact dates of employment, indicate the completion of the 2,000 hours and state if you were a full- or part-time employee. If you were part-time, you must also provide a detailed list of each week worked and the number of hours earned as verified by your employer.

8. If I passed the Exam as a Massachusetts candidate, do I have to apply for a Massachusetts CPA license if I intend to live and practice in another state?

No, you can transfer your CPA Exam scores to the state where you intend to relocate and apply for a license there. This service is provided by NASBA for a fee of $25. To learn more, visit nasba.org/licensure/nasbalicensing/colorado/faqs.