Experience Requirements for CPA Certification
Updated March 25, 2022
Gaining accounting experience is a necessary component of earning your CPA certificate. This is in addition to meeting the other requirements for becoming a CPA.
In Minnesota, you need a minimum of 2,000 hours of work experience using accounting, attest, compilation, tax, consulting or other skills noted in the BOA rule 1105.2600. Experience must be earned in no less than one year and no more than three years.
One year of experience can be in:
- Public accounting
- Industry
- Education
- Government
Paid internships count provided the candidate didn’t use the internship to fulfill the education requirements.
Experience verification
CPAs with a valid certificate (active or inactive) in the state where the candidate gained the experience can verify a candidate’s work experience. The verifying CPA can't be related to the CPA candidate.
Can I work while sitting for the exam?
In Minnesota, work hours earned while sitting for the CPA exam can be counted towards your one year of experience.
Questions?
Contact MNCPA customer service at 952-831-2707 or email us for answers to your CPA certification questions.
CPA certification is regulated by the Minnesota Board of Accountancy (BOA). They can be reached at 651-296-7938 or online.
