MACPA updates CPA Guide to reflect Maryland’s new licensure pathways
Becoming a CPA is one of the most rewarding career moves an accounting professional can make, but navigating the journey from student to licensed professional can sometimes feel complicated.
The MACPA is making that journey easier.
Our updated CPA Guide brings the key information future CPAs need together in one place, providing a step-by-step roadmap from preparing to sit for the CPA Exam through earning a license and becoming an engaged member of Maryland’s CPA community.
The guide begins with an application checklist designed to help candidates determine whether they have completed the education and coursework required to sit for the Uniform CPA Examination. From there, candidates can find information about applying for the exam, its Core and Discipline sections, continuous testing, and common application mistakes that can delay their progress.
Once candidates pass the exam, the guide walks them through Maryland’s licensure requirements — including the state’s new pathways to CPA licensure.
Effective Oct. 1, 2026, Maryland will offer three pathways to CPA licensure. In addition to existing options involving 150 hours of education or a qualifying post-baccalaureate degree, candidates will be able to earn their license with a bachelor’s degree and required accounting concentration, combined with two years or 4,000 hours of qualifying professional experience. The additional pathway is designed to give aspiring CPAs more flexibility in choosing the education-and-experience combination that works best for them.
And earning the license is only the beginning.
The CPA designation opens the door to a career built on trust, expertise, lifelong learning, leadership and service. Through the MACPA, new CPAs can continue that journey by connecting with peers, developing new skills, finding mentors, volunteering, and getting involved in the professional community.
Whether you’re an accounting student, an emerging professional or already preparing for the CPA Exam, the updated guide is designed to help you understand what comes next — and confidently take the next step.