A new law signed by Governor Phil Murphy will expand the options for obtaining a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license in New Jersey. The legislation, which goes into effect on February 11, 2026, was supported by the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJCPA), Assemblyman Sterley Stanley (D-18), Senator Anthony Bucco (R-25), and the New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA).
“We could not be more pleased with Governor Murphy’s signing of the additional CPA pathway bill,” said Aiysha (AJ) Johnson, MA, IOM, CEO and executive director at the NJCPA.
“We are grateful for the support of the Governor, significant support from Assemblyman Stanley, Senator Bucco and the entire New Jersey Legislature as well as our knowledgeable members and the business community that understands the challenges faced if we lack the pipeline for future talent.
“Accounting enrollments are trending higher at various institutions, so this will cast a wider net of options for those individuals looking to become CPAs,” Johnson said.
The NJBIA also expressed its support for this measure. As an organization representing employers across sectors such as manufacturing, retail, wholesale, contracting, and services throughout New Jersey according to its official website, NJBIA provides advocacy and information to advance member success and supports collaborations between businesses and government.
Previously in New Jersey, candidates seeking CPA licensure were required to earn at least 150 college credits—typically equivalent to a master’s degree—have one year of accounting work experience and pass the CPA Exam. Under the new law, another pathway is available: candidates can now qualify by earning a bachelor’s degree, completing two years of work experience and passing the CPA Exam.
New Jersey joins more than 20 other states that have expanded licensure pathways through changes in statute or rule.
The legislation also includes provisions regarding individual practice privileges: CPAs licensed in another state may practice in New Jersey if they have at least a bachelor’s degree or higher, have passed the CPA Exam and have one year of experience as a licensed CPA. The same requirements apply to those seeking reciprocal licenses in New Jersey. Additionally, CPAs already licensed in New Jersey before this law takes effect will automatically retain their license.
