CPA License Cost in Rhode Island 2026: $1,266 Fees, $80K Salary
Getting a CPA license in Rhode Island costs $1,266 upfront. At state-adjusted salaries, that pays back in 0.6 months.
CPA License in Rhode Island — Key Numbers
$1,266
Upfront Cost
$80K
Median Salary (Licensed)
$100
Renewal (every 1 yr)
0.6 mo
Payback Period
Salary data: BLS OEWS 2024 state estimates. Fees: state licensing board schedules.
CPA License Cost Breakdown — Rhode Island
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 (Rhode Island)
$56,100/yr
Salary with license (Rhode Island)
$79,560/yr
5-year net ROI
$116K
Licensing body: Rhode Island Board of Accountancy. Verify current fees before applying — schedules change.
CPA License in Rhode Island — What to Know
Rhode Island CPAs work primarily in public accounting, corporate finance, and healthcare administration. The $80K 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 Rhode Island. 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.