How much does a CPA license cost in North Carolina?

Getting a CPA license in North Carolina costs $1,266 upfront (exam fee $976, application fee $170, license fee $120). Renewal runs $100 every 1 year.

How much do licensed cpas earn in North Carolina?

Licensed cpas in North Carolina earn a median salary of $72,540/year, compared to $51,150/year without the license.

How many CE hours are required to renew a CPA license in North Carolina?

North Carolina requires 40 continuing education hours every 1 year to renew a CPA license.

CPA Licenses › North Carolina

CPA License Cost in North Carolina 2026: $1,266 Fees, $73K Salary

Getting a CPA license in North Carolina costs $1,266 upfront. At state-adjusted salaries, that pays back in 0.7 months.

CPA License in North Carolina — Key Numbers

$1,266

Upfront Cost

$73K

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 — North Carolina

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 (North Carolina) $51,150/yr

Salary with license (North Carolina) $72,540/yr

5-year net ROI $106K

Licensing body: North Carolina Board of Accountancy. Verify current fees before applying — schedules change.

CPA License in North Carolina — What to Know

North Carolina CPAs work primarily in public accounting, corporate finance, and healthcare administration. The $73K 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 North Carolina. 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.

Payback Calculator

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Other License Costs in North Carolina

Real Estate Agent → Registered Nurse → General Contractor →

← All states: CPA License Costs

All certifications in North Carolina · Payback period by state

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