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How to Verify a CPA License

Verifying a CPA license takes under two minutes. Every state board of accountancy publishes a free license lookup. Always check before signing an engagement — and check again periodically if the relationship is long-term.

Step 1: Identify the state of licensure

A CPA's license is issued by a state board, not federally. Ask which state the license is in (it may not be where they live or practice). CPAs working across state lines rely on a 'mobility' framework — they should still hold an active license in at least one state.

Step 2: Use the state board lookup

Search '[state] board of accountancy license lookup'
Enter the CPA's full name or license number
Confirm the license is active and not expired
Note any disciplinary actions or restrictions
Cross-check against the AICPA member directory if applicable

Step 3: Use CPA Verify

CPAverify.org (run by NASBA) aggregates license data from most U.S. states. It's the fastest single search if you don't know which state to start with.

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No signup required. Informational only — consult your CPA for advice.

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What 'active' actually means

Currently licensed in good standing
Continuing professional education (CPE) requirements met
Annual or biennial renewal fees paid
No suspension, revocation, or probation in place

When to re-verify

Verify before engagement. Re-verify if there's a major issue (IRS notice gets mishandled, advice contradicts industry norms, the CPA goes through life changes). Most boards send disciplinary notices via email subscription — worth setting up for your CPA's state.

Frequently asked

What if my CPA is licensed in a different state than where I live?

That's fine and common. CPA mobility rules let licensed CPAs work across state lines for most services.

What if their license is inactive?

They are still a CPA but cannot perform attest work, sign audit reports, or represent themselves as licensed CPAs in practice. Many retired or industry CPAs have inactive licenses.

What does a disciplinary action mean?

It depends. Minor CPE shortfalls are common and resolvable. Suspension or revocation for ethics violations or client fund issues is a hard pass.

Can a CPA practice in multiple states?

Yes, under mobility rules. Some services (like signing financial statements for use in another state) require additional notification or licensure.

Is an EA license the same?

No — Enrolled Agents are licensed by the IRS, not state boards. Use the IRS PTIN directory to verify EA status.

Next step

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