CPA License or Certificate How to Decide

Hello, this is Stephanie from IPasstheCPAExam.Com. Id like to answer a frequently asked question
on the difference between CPA certificate and CPA license. In most states, the term CPA certificate
and CPA license is inter-changeable. However, for two-tier states there is a distinction
between the two: CPA certificate In two-tier states, a candidate can apply for a CPA certificate after passing the exam.

Work experience is often not required. Continuous professional education hours, also
known as CPE hours are normally not required. Scope of work is limited as certificate holder
cannot own a CPA firm, or sign an audit report. Also, certificate holders cannot normally hold themselves out as a CPA.

Depending on the state, this can be applied
within the jurisdiction, in the US, or even worldwide. CPA license Typically require 1-2 years of experience, supervised and/or verified by a CPA license holder. CPE hours are required every reporting years, typically 120 hours every 3 years. Can use CPA title in business cards, or own CPA firm, or sign audit reports.

Implications to international candidates Because certificate is easier to get, one can consider certificate as the first level. The license, or permit to practice, is the
second level. In fact, many international students aim for certificates only because the CPA qualification is used to enhance their credentials. Please note that due to confusion to the public and some abuses in the system, most jurisdictions have switched from two-tier states to one-tier states in the last 5 to 10 years.

In other words, CPA certificates are becoming
virtually irrelevant because most state boards stopped issuing them. I strongly recommend that candidates regardless
of origin to go for the full license. If you have difficulties fulfilling the educational or experience requirements, there are ways to resolve them. Please check out these pages for possible
solutions: I hope this video explains the difference
between CPA certificate and license, the restrictions of a certificate and why you
should aim for the full license.

If you have any questions, please drop me a note in the comment section and I will be happy to help you out. You might want to subscribe to my Youtube channel for more information on the CPA exam. Thanks for watching and see you in the next video..