New Jersey: alternate pathway for CPA licensure
Date postedJanuary 7, 2026
A bipartisan New Jersey bill to reform certified public accountant licensure has cleared the Legislature and now awaits the governor’s signature. The measure would create an alternative pathway to CPA licensure allowing candidates with a bachelor’s degree and two years of professional experience to qualify, while maintaining the existing 150-credit-hour education route with one year of experience, and requiring all candidates to pass the CPA exam. It also updates practice mobility rules so CPAs licensed in other states who meet comparable standards could practice in New Jersey. Supporters say the changes are intended to expand access to the profession and address talent shortages in the accounting field.