H.B. No. 1764 amends the Occupations Code to streamline the certification and regulation process for out-of-state certified public accountants (CPAs) wishing to practice in Texas. The bill allows the Texas State Board of Public Accountancy to issue certificates to individuals holding valid CPA licenses from other states, provided they meet specific criteria. Notably, the bill removes previous requirements related to verification by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy regarding the comparability of education, examination, and experience requirements. Instead, it introduces new criteria, including the completion of a baccalaureate degree with a concentration in accounting or equivalent courses, and mandates that applicants have passed the uniform CPA examination.

Additionally, the bill allows individuals with out-of-state CPA licenses to practice in Texas without obtaining a Texas certificate or license, provided they meet certain educational and experience requirements. It also includes provisions that enable the board to prohibit individuals from exercising these privileges if they do not meet the established criteria. Furthermore, individuals who held a valid out-of-state CPA license as of December 31, 2024, can continue to practice in Texas under the privileges outlined in the bill without needing to obtain a Texas license. The act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Occupations Code 901.462 (Occupations Code 901)
House Committee Report: Occupations Code 901.259, Occupations Code 901.462 (Occupations Code 901)