Which firms need a CPA license?
If a firm whose principal place of business is in Virginia provides attest services, compilation services OR financial statement preparation services to persons or entities located in Virginia, the firm must hold a Virginia firm CPA license. If it uses the CPA title, it must hold a Virginia CPA license.
If a firm whose principal place of business is not in Virginia and it provides attest services, compilation services OR financial statement preparation services to persons or entities located in Virginia, it must hold either a Virginia CPA license or a license from the jurisdiction where the firm is located. If the firm uses the CPA title, it must also hold either a Virginia CPA license or a license from the jurisdiction where the firm is located.
Requirements surrounding use of the CPA title for firms went into effect July 1, 2024. See §54.1-4412.1. “Licensing Requirements for Firms” for full requirements for firm licensure.
To apply for a Virginia firm license, you must:
- Verify meeting the requirements to obtain a firm license.
- Create an online account to apply for licensure.
- Pay the required non-refundable application fee of $100.
A firm may not use the CPA title or provide attest services, compilation services, or financial statement preparation services to persons or entities located in Virginia until the approval of the license is shown as Active on the VBOA’s Licensee Search.
