Last reviewed 2026-07-16. Plain-language summary, not legal advice — always confirm the current rules with the Illinois Board of Accountancy.
How much CPE does a Illinois CPA need?
120/3yr. Here is what Illinois CPAs should know for renewal:
- Total hours: 120/3yr
- Reporting cycle: 3 years (triennial)
- Annual minimum: None
- Ethics: 4 hrs/cycle general ethics
- Renewal timing: Expires Sep 30 (next 2027)
- Other key rules: First renewal exempt from CPE; keep records 6 yrs.
Tip: Illinois accepts general professional ethics from a NASBA-registered sponsor. Keep your certificates and records after each course.
Who this applies to
Licensed CPAs renewing in Illinois. Newly licensed CPAs often have a prorated or waived first cycle — check your renewal notice.
How CPE Options helps
CPE Options is mobile-first self-study built for busy accountants: take courses on any device, pass the exam, and download your certificate the same day. Our free Compliance Manager maps every credit you earn to Illinois’s requirement — total hours, ethics, and your deadline — and flags what’s still missing.
Source: https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/illinois/Ill-Admin-Code-tit-68-SS-1420.70
