CPA License Cost in Minnesota 2026: $1,266 Fees, $78K Salary
Getting a CPA license in Minnesota costs $1,266 upfront. At state-adjusted salaries, that pays back in 0.7 months.
CPA License in Minnesota — Key Numbers
$1,266
Upfront Cost
$78K
Median Salary (Licensed)
$100
Renewal (every 1 yr)
0.7 mo
Payback Period
Salary data: BLS OEWS 2024 state estimates. Fees: state licensing board schedules.
CPA License Cost Breakdown — Minnesota
Exam fee
$976
Application fee
$170
Initial license fee
$120
Total upfront
$1,266
Renewal fee (every 1 yr)
$100
CE hours required per cycle
40 hours
Salary without license (Minnesota)
$55,000/yr
Salary with license (Minnesota)
$78,000/yr
5-year net ROI
$114K
Licensing body: Minnesota Board of Accountancy. Verify current fees before applying — schedules change.
CPA License in Minnesota — What to Know
Minnesota CPAs work primarily in public accounting, corporate finance, and healthcare administration. The $78K median reflects the state's wage scale. The 150-hour education requirement and multi-section exam make CPA a multi-year path for most candidates in Minnesota. Big Four and regional accounting firms in the state's metros actively recruit and fund exam prep for new associates. The state license fees add $200–$400 to the total cost of certification.