CPA Requirements Overview for Hawaii
Navigating the Hawaii CPA requirements can seem daunting, but with the right information, it’s manageable. To obtain a Hawaii CPA license, candidates must pass the uniform CPA examination and meet the educational criteria set by the Hawaii Board.
This includes completing 150 semester hours of education, often at the graduate level. Courses should align with generally accepted accounting principles and include upper-division subjects.
After passing the exam, candidates must apply for their first permit and ensure they are in good standing.
Also, maintaining the license requires ongoing CPE hours as stipulated by the American Institute. This guide will simplify each step.
CPA Exam Requirements for Hawaii
| CPA Exam Requirements Hawaii – Overview | |
| Educational Hours Required for Exam | 120 Semester Hours |
| Educational Hours Required for Licensure | 150 Semester Hours |
| Residency Required | Not required |
| Degree Required | Bachelor’s or Master’s |
| Minimum Age | 18 |
| Application Fee | $170.00 |
| Additional Requirements | Hawaii Board of Accountancy Site |
Educational Requirements for the Hawaii CPA Exam
To meet the Hawaii CPA requirements for the uniform CPA exam, candidates must fulfill specific college education criteria. This includes completing a graduate degree program or equivalent, with graduate-level accounting lessons.
Candidates need at least 18 semester hours in public accounting practice subjects. Additionally, the following education requirements must be met to qualify for a license in Hawaii. Applicants must provide a valid social security number.
Ensuring all educational criteria are satisfied is essential for eligibility. Meeting these standards prepares candidates for a successful career in public accounting in Hawaii.
Minimum Semester Hours Needed to Sit for the Hawaii CPA Exam
To sit for the Hawaii CPA Exam, candidates must meet specific education requirements. These include:
- A bachelor’s degree or baccalaureate degree in accounting or a related field.
- Completion of 150 semester hours from a college or university.
- At least 18 semester hours in graduate courses or graduate-level accounting.
- Business courses and hours of upper-division bookkeeping.
- Courses from an accredited college or university are acceptable to the state.
These minimum education requirements ensure candidates are well-prepared for the exam. Meeting these criteria is crucial for eligibility and future success as a CPA in Hawaii.
Approved Accounting Courses for the Hawaii CPA Exam
To sit for the Hawaii CPA Exam, candidates must complete approved accounting courses meeting the state’s education requirements:
- Hold a degree in accounting or a related field.
- Complete 18 semester hours of upper-level or graduate-level accounting lessons.
- Courses must be upper division or higher.
- Include specific hours of upper-level coursework.
- Provide a social security number or proof of being an alien authorized to work in the U.S.
- Comply with professional conduct standards set by the PVL Licensing Branch.
These requirements must be met by any first-time applicant in an odd-numbered year. Registering for the Hawaii CPA Exam
Hawaii CPA Exam Application Deadlines and Scheduling
To apply for the Hawaiian CPA Exam, adhere to the following deadlines and scheduling guidelines:
- Ensure completion of auditing courses, financial accounting courses, and additional undergraduate courses.
- Obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Submit applications to CPA Examination Services.
- Applications are accepted year-round; however, deadlines may vary.
- Coordinate with a college official for transcript submissions.
- The Uniform CPA Examination is offered quarterly.
- Passing the exam is a step towards obtaining a Hawaiian CPA license.
- Necessary for entry into public accounting practice or public accountancy.
Meeting these deadlines is crucial for scheduling and eligibility for the CPA examination.
CPA License Requirements Hawaii
Experience Requirements for Hawaii CPA Licensure
To obtain a Hawaii CPA license, candidates must meet specific experience requirements. The Hawaii Board mandates that CPA candidates complete at least one year of full-time work experience, equating to 2,000 hours, under the supervision of a licensed CPA.
This experience must be in areas of public accountancy including accounting, auditing courses, and tax preparation. It ensures that candidates have practical knowledge alongside their academic achievements.
Candidates must hold a baccalaureate degree from a recognized college or university, including 150 semester hours of upper-university acceptable coursework. This education foundation is crucial for understanding complex financial and auditing concepts.
Experience gained must be documented and verified by an evaluator approved by the Hawaii Board. This verification process ensures the quality and relevance of the work experience.
The combination of practical experience and academic qualifications prepares candidates for the responsibilities of holding CPA licenses. Meeting these requirements is essential for advancing in the field of public accountancy. Ethics Exam Requirement for Hawaii CPA Licensure
Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Requirements for Hawaii CPAs
To maintain a CPA license in Hawaii, certified public accountants must meet the Continuing Professional Education (CPE) requirements set by the Hawaii Board.
CPAs are required to complete 80 hours of CPE every two years. These hours must cover topics relevant to their field, including auditing subjects and advanced accounting.
Holders of a baccalaureate degree with an accounting focus must ensure their ongoing education includes auditing experience and related auditing subjects.
Education must also include 24 semester hours of upper-level courses. These requirements ensure CPAs remain proficient in their knowledge and skills.
CPAs working in private industry must also comply with these standards.
Completing these CPE hours is essential for any CPA in Hawaii to maintain their license and continue practicing professionally. Application Process for Hawaiian CPA Licensure
Renewal and Continuing Education for Hawaii CPAs
Renewing a CPA license in Hawaii requires meeting specific continuing education requirements set by the state. CPAs must complete 80 CPE hours every two years to ensure their skills and knowledge remain current.
These hours must include hours of upper-division or graduate-level courses in relevant subjects. Courses must cover advanced accounting and professional experience topics.
CPAs holding a higher degree with an accounting conferred focus need to meet these ongoing education standards.
To renew, CPAs must submit a renewal application along with the required application fee. The Aloha State mandates these requirements to maintain high professional standards.
The uniform CPA exam completion remains a cornerstone, but continuous education ensures up-to-date expertise.
Meeting the following requirements is essential for the ongoing validity of a Hawaii CPA license.
CPA Exam and Licensure: Hawaii FAQs
What are the fees associated with the Hawaii CPA Exam?
The fees associated with the Hawaii CPA Exam include several components. First, there is an initial application fee which is required when you submit your application to sit for the exam. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid regardless of the outcome of your application.
For each section of the CPA exam, candidates will need to pay an examination fee. These fees cover the costs of administering the exam and vary depending on the section being taken.
Candidates with a degree in accounting conferred from a recognized institution must also pay a fee for the evaluation of their educational credentials. This ensures they meet the level or graduate coursework requirements.
Additional fees may be required for re-examination or rescheduling any section of the exam. Always check the latest fee schedule from the Hawaii Board of Accountancy for the most accurate information.
Overall, planning and budgeting for these fees is essential for all CPA candidates in Hawaii.FAQ: Can I transfer my CPA license to Hawaii from another state?
How long does it take to get a CPA license in Hawaii?
Obtaining a CPA license in Hawaii involves several steps and varies by individual. Typically, the process can take several years. Here are the general steps and timeframes:
- Education: Meeting the minimum education requirements involves completing a baccalaureate degree with graduate-level accounting coursework from a recognized college or university. This can take four to five years.
- Uniform CPA Exam: After meeting the educational requirements, candidates must pass the Uniform CPA Exam. Preparation and completion can take an additional six months to a year.
- Experience: Candidates must also gain relevant experience in public accounting practice, adhering to generally accepted accounting principles. This requirement typically takes one to two years.
- Professional Conduct: Candidates must demonstrate professional conduct throughout the process.
In total, fulfilling the Hawaii CPA requirements can take five to seven years, depending on individual circumstances.
Is there a residency requirement for obtaining a CPA license in Hawaii?
Yes, there is a residency requirement for obtaining a CPA license in Hawaii. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a resident of Hawaii, or have a place of business or employment in Hawaii.
- Hold a baccalaureate degree with graduate-level accounting from a recognized college or university.
- Complete upper division and auditing courses as part of their education.
- Follow generally accepted accounting principles in their practice.
- Ensure they are in good standing with CPA exam services.
- Apply for the license in an odd-numbered year.
Meeting these residency and education requirements is essential for becoming a licensed CPA in Hawaii.
Additional Information
While we do our best to keep all of this information up to date you are welcome to visit and or contact the Hawaii Board of Accountancy with any other questions you might have.
Hawaii State Board of Public Accountancy
Address: Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs PO Box 3469 335 Merchant Street (96813) Honolulu, HI 96801-3469
Phone: (808) 586-2696 Fax: (808) 586-2874
Email: [email protected]
Web: cca.hawaii.gov
Application form: Hawaii CPA Application Form