Connecticut is a two-tier state. Once an individual has met all requirements to become a CPA (i.e., education, exams, ethics and experience), they may apply for the first tier, a qualified certificate.  Please note:

• The qualified certificate is a pre-requisite to becoming registered or licensed for first time applicants.
• It is not an "active" status and does not allow the holder to practice as a CPA or use the designation CPA on any materials.

Once you have qualified for a certificate, the second tier would be to either obtain:

1. an active certificate registration which allows the holder to use the CPA designation only; or
2. an active license which allows the holder to practice and offer accounting services.

• CPA Exam Information and Resource Links

Applications, Requirements and Forms

• Initial Certification, Registration and License
  • Passed CPA Exam in Connecticut
  • Passed CPA Exams in another state but does not have 5 years of experience in public accountancy.
  • Reciprocal - Holds CPA Registration or License in another state but does not have 5 years of experience in public accountancy.
  • Reciprocal - Holds CPA License in another state and possesses 5-years of public accountancy experience within the last 10-years.
  • License/Registration for current CT Certificate holders (applicants who have already gone through the certification process and have a Connecticut certificate and now wish to apply for a registration or license).

• Firm Permits: To apply for an initial in-state or out-of-state firm permit, reinstate an expired permit, report a name change and terminate an old firm.
  • Firm Permits

• Reinstatement:  A credential that is inactive and has been for less than 1 year may submit a reinstatement application online.  Credentials expired more than 1 year are required to print, complete and mail the reinstatement application to the address indicated on the form.
  •  Reinstatement Applications & Information
           
• Renewal: Renewal notices are EMAILED to all credential holders during the renewal period from October 1st to December 31st.
  • Paper Renewal Forms & Information Needed to Renew Online                       
  • Continuing Professional Education (CPE): Only licensed CPA's are required to report CPE's.  

• Request for verification of License/Registration Status or Grade Information
  • How to request a verification of status or exam grades

• Verify a CPA registration/license/Permit status:
  • Verify CPA Registration/License/Permit Status

• Changes to License/Registration
  • Change Name/Address
  • Inactivation of License
  • Retiree Status License Application
  • Restoration from Retiree Status Application

• State Board of Accountancy
• Definitions  (Qualified Certificates,  and Registered vs. Licensed)
• A wall certificate can be obtained by contacting NASBA at www.nasbastore.org after approval of your certification.  All questions regarding wall certificates should be directed to NASBA at 1-888-925-5237.  
• Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) - www.pcaobus.org
• American Institute of CPAs - www.aicpa.org
  • Professional Code of Conduct
• Frequently Asked Questions about Foreign Accountants and Chartered Accountants in Connecticut
• Client Record Memo
• CPA Mobility
  • Individual Practice Privilege
  • Information for Out of State Firms
• Board's Statement Regarding Services to Marijuana Distributors and Growers 
• Public Accounting Firms and the Firm’s use of the title Certified Public Accountant