District of Columbia (DC) CPA Ethics Exam Requirements
In the District of Columbia (DC), CPA candidates are not required to pass a separate ethics exam to obtain licensure. The DC Board of Accountancy does not mandate the AICPA Professional Ethics Exam or any equivalent ethics examination as part of its initial CPA licensing process.
However, licensed CPAs in DC are required to complete 4 hours of ethics-related Continuing Professional Education (CPE) as part of their biennial 80-hour CPE requirement. These ethics hours are intended to reinforce professional integrity and ensure CPAs remain compliant with evolving ethical standards and best practices within the profession.
This structure highlights DC’s commitment to maintaining high ethical standards through ongoing education, rather than a one-time licensure exam. Ethics is addressed as part of professional development and license renewal, emphasizing the importance of continued ethical awareness throughout a CPA’s career.
For more details, click here to visit the District of Columbia Board of Accountancy website or email [email protected]. Applicants may also call the Board at (202) 442-4320.
What Comes After the Ethics Exam? Preparing for Your CPE Requirements
Passing the CPA Ethics Exam is one of the final milestones on your path to becoming a licensed CPA — but your journey doesn’t end there.
To maintain your CPA license, you’ll need to meet Continuing Education Ethics requirements. CPE ensures you stay up to date with changing regulations, ethical principles, professional ethics standards, and evolving industry practices.
Most state boards require 40 hours of CPE annually. Many providers now offer courses on analyzing ethical matters adhering to recognized standards, applying ethical principles, and other ethics considerations for CPAs working with federally funded charitable organizations, financial institutions, and private businesses.
Not sure where to start? Use our CPE Course Comparison Guide to explore top-rated providers and find the best fit for your learning style, budget, and specialty.
