Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AL Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Alabama
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Alabama, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in Alabama
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Affidavit or referral required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Alabama State Bar
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$127,660 median (16% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#23 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Alabama
With a median salary of 127,660, Lawyers in Alabama earn 16% below the national median of $151,160. Alabama ranks #23 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.9%Average Weekly Wage
$1,201Median annual salary
$127,660Hourly estimate
$61.3816% below national median
Difference: -$23,500
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#23 of 50 statesfor Lawyer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 197,790 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | 179,050 |
| #3 | New York | 177,210 |
| #4 | Delaware | 172,710 |
| #5 | Colorado | 167,970 |
Nearby States Comparison
Lawyer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $127,660 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $130,570 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $126,240 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Florida | $127,810 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $92,610 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 25 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Florida | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Mississippi | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Alabama State Bar
P.O. Box 671, Montgomery, AL, 36101
Phone: 3342691515
Related Careers in Alabama
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $94,170 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $71,070 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $98,100 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $79,600 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Alabama?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Lawyers in Alabama?
Alabama lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in Alabama?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in Alabama.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in Alabama?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Alabama is 127,660. Salaries range from $61,190 (10th percentile) to $217,010 (90th percentile).
How does the Lawyer salary in Alabama compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Alabama earn 16% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 127,660.
How many Lawyers work in Alabama?
Alabama employs approximately 5,810 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to Alabama from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Lawyers in Alabama?
The licensing agency is Alabama State Bar. Review agency details at https://www.alabar.org/.