1. (1) Extension requests. The department may in its discretion provide an applicant with an extension to the retention period prescribed in this subdivision. An extension may be granted upon a finding by the department of extenuating circumstances outside the applicant's control. The length of an extension shall be determined by the department as it relates to the length of the extenuating circumstances experienced by the applicant. The department may consult with the State Board for Public Accountancy on the appropriateness of granting extension requests. The department may accept passing examination scores that are outside the 18-month requirement where such examinations cannot be completed in the 18-month due to the COVID-19 crisis.

   (d) Admission to the examination.

   For admission to the licensing examination as a New York State candidate, the candidate shall meet all education requirements including, but not limited to, completion of a minimum of 120 semester hours of study in an acceptable accredited college or university which shall include at least one course in each of the mandatory professional accounting content areas defined in section 52.13(b)(1)(i) of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education, or its equivalent as determined by the department.

   (e) Transfer of examination credit.

   Candidates who have passed, in another state, the licensing examination used by New York State may have their grades transferred upon application, if the requirements of this Part concerning education, and retention of credit have been met.

   (f) Competency.

   If it has been more than 10 years since the applicant passed the certified public accountant licensing examination, a license shall not be issued until the applicant completes a satisfactory amount of continuing professional education, acceptable to the department. The State Board for Public Accountancy shall recommend to the department the appropriateness of the continuing professional education that is to be completed to satisfy this requirement.

(a) Content.

The licensing examination shall consist of an examination designed to test the knowledge and skills required for licensure as a certified public accountant as determined by the department. The department may accept an examination to become a licensed certified public accountant as recommended by the State Board for Public Accountancy.

(b) Passing score.

The department shall determine a passing score, in consultation with the State Board for Public Accountancy, on an examination accepted pursuant to subdivision (a) of this section.

(c) Retention of credit.

The retention period on an examination approved pursuant to subdivision (a) of this section shall be for a period of 18-months. Such 18-month period shall be computed in a manner determined by the department.