CPA & CMA Certification Validity: Renewal, Requirements & Global Value

CPA vs CMA Certification Validity: Both CPA certification and CMA certification represent more than just proficiency in accounting and finance. They require continual maintenance to remain valid. Whether you are planning to earn either credential or already hold one, understanding how to maintain the relevancy and validity of the CPA or CMA license is essential to your professional growth.

In this blog, we will cover:

How long CPA and CMA certifications remain valid
Renewal and CPE requirements
Costs of maintaining your credential
Why CPA and CMA certifications are still valuable in today’s job market

How Long Are CPA & CMA Certification Validity?

When you receive your CPA or CMA certification, you don’t just hang it on the wall and forget about it. Both of these credentials have a specific validity period and renewal requirements.

CPA Certification Validity

CPA license validity: 1 to 3 years, depending on the state.
Renewal requires fulfilling Continuing Professional Education (CPE) requirements. Without renewal, your CPA license becomes inactive.

CMA Certification Validity

CMA certification must be recertified every 3 years.
CMAs must complete the required number of CPE hours in this period, focusing on management accounting topics.

Continuing Professional Education (CPE): The Key to Maintaining CPA & CMA

Both CPAs and CMAs are required to remain current on industry standards and principles. CPE for CPA and CMA professionals ensures that your skills stay relevant.

For CPAs: Complete 40 hours of CPE every year, covering accounting, taxation, ethics, and other relevant areas.
For CMAs: Complete 30 hours of CPE annually, including a minimum of 2 hours in ethics.

Tip: Many online CPE providers offer flexible courses, making it easier to track and maintain your education requirements.

Why Is Maintaining CPA & CMA Certification Important?

The fields of finance and accounting are constantly evolving. By maintaining your CPA certification or CMA certification, you demonstrate commitment to professional growth and ensure your skills are up to date. Benefits include:

Improved credibility with employers and clients
Competitive edge in the job market
Compliance with regulatory and industry standards

Cost of Maintaining CPA & CMA Certification

While the benefits are significant, there are costs to maintaining your credential:

CPA Renewal Costs: $100 – $500 (varies by state) + possible AICPA membership fees.
CMA Renewal Costs: Renewal fees, CPE costs, and an additional membership fee of $35.

Consequences of Letting Your CPA or CMA Certification Expire

Failing to renew your certification can have serious professional consequences:

CPA License: Suspension or revocation, meaning you cannot practice as a CPA in your state.
CMA Certification: Marked as expired, reducing your professional credibility and limiting job opportunities.

CPA vs CMA in Today’s Job Market

In today’s fast-changing financial landscape, both CPA and CMA certifications remain highly relevant. Employers seek professionals who can adapt to new technologies, compliance changes, and evolving financial practices.

CPA Certification: Globally recognized, especially in auditing, taxation, and financial accounting roles.
CMA Certification: Valued for expertise in management accounting, strategy, and decision-making.

Tips to Keep Your CPA or CMA Certification Active

Plan your CPE courses in advance.
Track your CPE hours with online tools or apps.
Stay updated on new laws, accounting standards, and technologies.
Set reminders for renewal deadlines to avoid expiration.

Global Edge of CPA and CMA Certification

For professionals seeking international opportunities, both CPA and CMA certifications carry significant global weight. They open doors to roles in multinational companies, Big 4 firms, and remote jobs across the US, Middle East, and Asia.

Conclusion: CPA & CMA Certification Is an Ongoing Investment

As a CPA or CMA, maintaining your credential is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing investment. Meeting CPE requirements and renewal deadlines ensures your skills remain sharp and your professional reputation stays strong.

The effort you put into maintaining your CPA license or CMA certification increases your value to employers and clients worldwide.

If you’re planning to start your journey toward a CPA or CMA certification or are maintaining your credential, explore our resources on: