New law opens doors for out-of-state CPAs in Ohio

As of April 9, 2025, Ohio officially joined a growing movement to modernize the CPA profession. Thanks to the implementation of House Bill 238—signed by Governor Mike DeWine on January 8—qualified CPAs licensed in other states can now practice in the Buckeye State without needing to obtain an Ohiospecific license.

The new law brings Ohio in line with several other states who now offer automatic interstate mobility, a system designed to streamline the way states recognize CPA credentials. Rather than evaluating professionals based on where they earned their license, Ohio now assesses CPAs based on their individual professional standing.

“Automatic interstate mobility essentially works like a driver’s license,” explained Laura Hay, CPA, president and CEO of The Ohio Society of CPAs. “You can drive through our state without an Ohio license, but you still must follow our laws—and if you don’t, you’re penalized. The same applies here—a licensed CPA in good standing can now practice here but must adhere to our strict professional standards.”

With this change, Ohio joins Alabama, Nebraska, North Carolina, and Nevada—states that already offer similar recognition for out-of-state CPAs. Together, these states provide an expanding network where qualified professionals can offer their services more freely while remaining accountable to local oversight.

The trend is gaining national momentum. About half of all U.S. jurisdictions have indicated they’re considering or actively shifting to the automatic mobility model, citing its potential to reduce barriers and respond to workforce challenges.

“Automatic mobility shifts substantial equivalency from the state level to the individual level,” Hay added. “And the more states we have that accept this model, the more successful we will all be in addressing the national CPA shortage.”

The change not only benefits mobile professionals but also enhances Ohio’s competitiveness in attracting accounting talent, reinforcing the state’s commitment to modern, responsive regulation.

OSCPA staff report