Maryland Passes New CPA Licensure Pathways Bill
Maryland lawmakers approved House Bill 643, which creates an additional route to CPA licensure. The measure now awaits Gov. Wes Moore’s signature and will take effect on October 1, 2026.
What the bill changes
The legislation adds a third pathway to become a licensed CPA in Maryland. Candidates may now qualify with a bachelor’s degree, two years of qualifying work experience, and passage of the Uniform CPA Exam.
Existing licensure routes remain unchanged. One pathway requires a bachelor’s degree with an accounting concentration plus 30 additional college credit hours. The other requires a master’s degree in accounting. Both of those options continue to require one year of work experience and passage of the CPA exam.
Details of the new pathway
- Bachelor’s degree (non-specified concentration allowed).
- Two years of qualifying work experience.
- Successful completion of the Uniform CPA Exam.
Legislative process and support
The bill passed both chambers with unanimous approval. Sponsors included Delegates Kriselda Valderrama, Lily Qi, and William Wivell.
The Maryland Association of CPAs backed the proposal. The group argued it would expand talent pipelines while keeping professional standards intact.
Industry reaction
Rebekah Olson, CEO of the Maryland Association of CPAs, called the change a major win for the profession. She said the new option will help employers fill critical roles without lowering credential standards.
Broader context
The move follows a national trend. Dozens of states have adopted similar measures to address shortages and widen access to the accounting profession.
Filmogaz.com will monitor Gov. Moore’s action and report when the bill becomes law. The measure, and its October 1, 2026 effective date, could reshape recruitment and training for future CPAs in Maryland.
