After you pass the CPA exam

Congratulations on passing the CPA exam! You have worked incredibly hard and we know it was not always easy, but now you can look forward to representing one of the most highly regarded professions.

Below are a few pointers to remember once you pass the exam:

Take the ethics exam. You need to pass this take home test before you can be licenses in Maryland. Get details on the ethics exam here.
Be sure to follow the State Board of Public Accountancy's guidelines for applying for original licensure in Maryland. (Details are mailed with your passing test results. They also can be obtained by calling the State Board at (410) 230-6322.)
Tell your employer. A CPA certification may mean a promotion and, according to Robert Half Specialized Financial Recruiting, CPAs earn 10 percent more than their non-certified counterparts.
Attend the annual swearing-in ceremony for new Maryland CPAs. It's not required, but it's a great introduction to the profession. The MACPA will contact new CPAs to invite them to the ceremony. The 2009 swearing-in ceremony will be held at 6 p.m. on June 16 at the Baltimore Convention Center.
Complete the Report of Practical Experience. Download guidelines for the report here.
Begin to look into classes you may need or want to take to meet the CPE requirement. You will need to begin taking 80 hours of classes in the two years after you renew your license for the first time. (In order to renew your license for the second time, you must have 80 worth of CPE credits.) Take a look at the MACPA's CPE offerings here.