Congratulations on embarking on the exciting journey of becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Florida! The Florida CPA requirements may appear complex at first, but fear not – we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive step-by-step guide. What’s even better? We’ll explore diverse pathways to fulfill the requirements, along with valuable tips and strategies to ensure your success. Let’s dive in and chart your unique path to CPA certification in the sunshine state!

Educational Requirements


To fulfill the educational requirements in Florida, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited educational institution. The degree must consist of at least 120 semester hours or 160 quarter hours, including the following coursework:

  1. Accounting: You must complete at least 30 semester hours of upper level accounting courses, which should cover financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, auditing, and accounting information systems.
  2. Business-Related Subjects: You’ll need a minimum of 36 semester hours in business courses, including business law, economics, finance, and business communications. For more info see: https://www.becker.com/cpa-review/florida-cpa-requirements

While a bachelor’s degree in accounting satisfies most of the educational requirements, individuals with non-accounting degrees can also pursue a master’s degree or post-baccalaureate certificate in accounting to meet the necessary coursework. Keep in mind that online programs from accredited institutions can also be a flexible and accessible option for those seeking to fulfill the educational requirements. There are platforms like cpacredits.com that make it possible for students to fulfill their requirements quickly and affordably with self-paced online courses from accredited universities.

CPA Exam Preparation


The Uniform CPA Exam can be the biggest challenge on your CPA journey, but with the right preparation, you can conquer it. Start by familiarizing yourself with the exam’s content and structure, which includes four sections: Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Business Environment and Concepts (BEC), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), and Regulation (REG). Understanding the exam format and content will help you create an effective study plan.

There are excellent CPA review courses available, both in-person and online, to help you prepare effectively. Consider enrolling in a comprehensive review course that aligns with your learning style and preferences. These courses provide study materials, practice questions, and mock exams to simulate the actual testing experience. Creating a study schedule and setting specific goals will keep you on track during your exam preparation journey.

Resources for CPA Exam Preparation:

Work Experience

Gaining relevant work experience is an essential requirement for CPA licensure in Florida. You must acquire at least one year (2,000 hours) of acceptable work experience in accounting or related fields. The experience can be obtained through employment in public accounting firms, government agencies, academia, non-profit organizations, or private industry.

Documenting your work experience is crucial. Keep detailed records of your responsibilities, job duties, and the period during which you gained the experience. Ask your employers for verification letters outlining your work experience and the number of hours worked. If you’re starting out, consider internships or entry-level positions to gain valuable experience in the field.

Continuing Professional Education (CPE)


As a CPA, it is vital to stay up-to-date with the constantly evolving accounting profession. Continuing Professional Education (CPE) ensures that you maintain your knowledge and skills. Florida requires 80 CPE hours over a two-year reporting period, which includes at least four hours of ethics.

Seek out CPE courses, seminars, webinars, and conferences that cover a range of accounting topics. Many professional organizations, such as the Florida Institute of CPAs, offer numerous resources and courses to help you fulfill your CPE requirements. Utilize online platforms and self-study options to fit your schedule and preferences. Remember to keep track of your CPE hours and maintain records for future reporting.

Useful web links for CPE information:


In conclusion, embarking on the journey to become a CPA in Florida is an exciting endeavor, filled with diverse paths to success. Whether you’re starting fresh or have non-traditional qualifications, there are various ways to meet the Florida CPA requirements. Stay motivated, utilize resources, and leverage your unique strengths. Success awaits you as you navigate the educational requirements, prepare for the CPA exam, gain work experience, pass the ethics exam, and fulfill the continuing professional education requirements. Best of luck on your journey to becoming a Certified Public Accountant in the beautiful state of Florida!