How to Get a CPA License in Montana
Last updated: March 1, 2026
Quick Facts
Education
150 hrs
Total Cost
$2,250
Governing Body
Montana Board of Public Accountants
Montana is a growing market driven by lifestyle migration and outdoor recreation, making it an excellent place to start a career as a cpa. Licensing in Montana is overseen by the Montana Board of Public Accountants. The process requires 150 hours of pre-license education and costs between $1,500 and $3,000 in total. You'll need to pass the Uniform CPA Examination (administered by NASBA/Prometric) with a score of at least 75 on each section.
At 150 hours, Montana has one of the higher pre-license education requirements in the country. This is close to the national average of 150 hours. Budget between $1,500 and $3,000 for the total licensing process, including education, application, and exam fees. Most aspiring cpas complete the entire process in 4-6 months, depending on how quickly they move through the coursework and exam preparation.
MontanaCPA License Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Pre-License Education | 150 hours |
| Degree Required | Yes |
| Exam Required | Yes — Uniform CPA Examination |
| Passing Score | 75 on each section |
| Background Check | Yes |
| Broker Sponsorship | Not required |
| Application Fee | $100 |
| Exam Fee | $344 |
| Governing Body | Montana Board of Public Accountants |
| License Reciprocity | Full |
Reciprocity:Montana participates in CPA Mobility.
Steps to Get Your CPA License in Montana
- 1
Complete 150 Semester Hours of Education
Earn a bachelor's degree and complete 150 semester hours of college education as required by the Montana Board of Public Accountants. 150 semester hours with a bachelor's degree including 24 hours in accounting.
Time: 4-5 years (if starting from scratch) Cost: $1,000 - 2
Apply to Take the CPA Exam
Submit your application through the Montana Board of Public Accountants and NASBA. You'll need official transcripts, a completed application, and the $100 fee.
Time: 4-8 weeks for approval Cost: $100 - 3
Pass the Uniform CPA Examination
Pass all four sections (AUD, BEC, FAR, REG) of the Uniform CPA Exam at a Prometric testing center. You must score at least 75 on each section on each section. You have 18 months to pass all sections after passing the first one.
Time: 6-18 months Cost: $344 - 4
Complete Experience Requirement
Must complete 1 year of experience under a licensed CPA Experience can typically be gained in public accounting, industry, government, or academia.
Time: 1-2 years - 5
Apply for Your CPA License
Once you've passed the exam and completed the experience requirement, submit your license application to the Montana Board of Public Accountants. Some states also require an ethics exam.
Time: 2-6 weeks for processing
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View Kaplan Courses →Key Things to Know
- Education requirement: 150 semester hours with a bachelor's degree including 24 hours in accounting.. Many providers offer online options, giving you flexibility to study on your own schedule.
- The licensing exam: The Uniform CPA Examination is administered by NASBA/Prometric. You'll need to score at least 75 on each section to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available from most education providers.
- Already licensed in another state? Montana participates in CPA Mobility.
- Background check required: Montana requires a criminal background check as part of the application process. Plan for additional processing time and fees.
- Online application available: Montana accepts online applications, which can speed up processing time.
- Ongoing requirements: Once licensed, you'll need 40 hours of continuing education every 1 year. 40 hours of CPE per year, including 3 hours of ethics.
How Montana Compares
Montana requires 150 hours of pre-license education for cpas. This is close to the national average of 150 hours. The average total cost in Montana is around $2,250, compared to the national average of $2,199. Montana's 1-year renewal cycle is shorter than the national average of 1.8 years.
How Much Does a CPA License Cost in Montana?
| Cost Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Education | $300 - $700 |
| Application Fee | $100 |
| Exam Fee | $344 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1,500 - $3,000 |
License Renewal
- Renewal Period: Every 1 years
- Continuing Education:40 hours
- CE Details:40 hours of CPE per year, including 3 hours of ethics
- Renewal Fee: $125
Tips for Success
- Choose your education provider carefully: Compare prices, format (online vs. in-person), and reviews. Some providers offer exam prep materials bundled with the course, which can save you money. Check the Montana Board of Public Accountants website for a list of approved providers.
- Don't rush the exam: With 150 hours of required coursework, consider a structured schedule — completing one course at a time helps avoid burnout. Use practice exams to identify weak areas before scheduling your test date.
- Use a CPA review course: The Uniform CPA Exam is notoriously difficult. Invest in a reputable review course (Becker, Roger, Wiley, etc.) and create a structured study schedule. Most candidates spend 300-400 hours total studying across all four sections.
- Budget for the full process: Beyond the $1,500-$3,000 in fees, plan for CPA review courses ($1,500-$3,500), study materials, and potentially the 5th year of college to reach 150 credit hours. Many employers offer CPA exam reimbursement — ask about this during job interviews.
- Budget approximately $3,000 for your Montana license: This includes $100 in application fees, $344 for the exam, and education costs. Once licensed, plan for $125 in renewal fees every 1 year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a cpa license in Montana?
Most people complete the process in 3-5 months total. The pre-license education (150 hours) takes the longest. After completing education, the exam and application process typically adds 2-6 weeks.
How much does it cost to get a cpa license in Montana?
The total cost ranges from $1,500 to $3,000, including pre-license education, the application fee ($100), and the exam fee ($344).
Can I get a Montana cpa license with a criminal record?
The Montana Board of Public Accountants evaluates criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain offenses may affect your eligibility. Contact the Montana Board of Public Accountants for guidance before applying.
Do I need a college degree to become a cpa in Montana?
Yes, a degree is required.
Can I take the pre-license courses online in Montana?
Many approved education providers offer pre-license courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Check the Montana Board of Public Accountants website for a list of approved providers.
Sources
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