Tennessee State Board of Accountancy Changes Rules To Aid Aspiring CPAs Sitting for Exam
Aspiring CPAs in Tennessee will have more time to sit for the CPA Exam thanks to a recent ruling change by the Tennessee State Board of Accountancy. Filed with the Tennessee Secretary of State on Feb. 28, these rules are set to ease the pathway to becoming a CPA when they come into effect on May 28.
After a rulemaking hearing on Oct. 20, 2023, where the proposed changes were approved, the state board has now finalized the amendments aimed at modernizing and easing the process for CPA candidates. These amendments are particularly notable for updating the computer-based Uniform CPA Examination and the educational prerequisites for licensure.
Among the most impactful changes is the extension of the validity period for test section credits. Previously, candidates faced the challenge of having their exam scores expire after 18 months, necessitating a retake of parts of the examination. Under the new rules, not only will these credits last for 30 months, giving candidates a more extended period to pass all required sections, but exam scores will also no longer expire after a decade for licensure requirements. However, it is important to note that individuals with scores older than 10 years will need to fulfill continuing professional education requirements to meet licensure requirements, ensuring that all CPAs remain current in their knowledge despite the extended timeframe.
Another significant revision concerns the practical experience requirement for licensure. The updated rules provide clarity and expansion on the number of allowable internship credit hours, offering candidates more flexibility in meeting the experience criteria necessary for becoming a CPA.
These changes come as a welcome update for many in the field, promising to make the CPA licensure process more accommodating and reflective of the realities faced by today’s candidates. The full details of these rule amendments are available online at https://publications.tnsosfiles.com/rules_filings/02-20-24.pdf.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the rules, contact Neil Stauffer at 615-741-1910 or Neil.Stauffer@tn.gov.