Additional Pathway to CPA

Recognizing the need to increase access to the accounting field, the New Jersey Society of CPAs has proposed an additional pathway to obtain CPA licensure in New Jersey.

We drafted a bill to modify New Jersey’s Accountancy Act. Assembly bill A5598, which is sponsored by Assemblyman Sterley Stanley, passed the Assembly Regulated Professions Committee on May xx. The bill includes the following provisions:

New licensure pathway option: In addition to the existing 150-hour option, candidates will be able to pursue a CPA license by earning a bachelor’s degree, completing two years of experience and passing the CPA Exam.
Individual practice privileges (mobility): CPAs licensed in another state will be able to practice in New Jersey as long as they have a bachelor’s or higher degree, have passed the CPA Exam and have at least one year of experience as a licensed CPA. The same requirements will be necessary for gaining a reciprocal license in New Jersey.
Safe harbor provision: CPAs licensed in New Jersey prior to the effective date of the bill will automatically retain their license.

All provisions would be effective Jan. 1, 2026.

Across the Country

AICPA/NASBA:

After initially proposing a CPA pathway that would include competency requirements as part of the two years of experience, the AICPA and NASBA issued a new proposal without the competency requirements.

States (as of April 24, 2025):

12 states have passed legislation to include an additional pathway to licensure.
23 states have introduced legislation this year or are expected to do so soon.

Get more details on what's happening across the country (courtesy of the Minnesota Society of CPAs).