A CPA is a financial professional licensed by a state board to provide accounting services to the public. Once you’ve passed them and met the work experience requirement, you’re eligible to apply for a CPA license with your state board of accountancy.Īll CPAs are accountants, but not all accountants are CPAs. To obtain a CPA license, you must pass all four parts of the CPA exam. Is CPA a certificate, degree, or license?ĬPA is a license awarded by the state you want to work in, which allows you to practice as an advanced accountant.