Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Professional Fiduciaries Bureau
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$197,790 median (31% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 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 California
With a median salary of 197,790, Lawyers in California earn 31% above the national median of $151,160. California ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$197,790Hourly estimate
$95.0931% above national median
Difference: +$46,630
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $197,790 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $141,520 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $151,160 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $133,360 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Consumer Affairs • Professional Fiduciaries Bureau
1625 N. Market Blvd., Ste. S-209, Sacramento, CA
Phone: 9165747340
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $105,840 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $96,360 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $118,450 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $128,650 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in California?
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 is the typical Lawyer salary in California?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in California is 197,790.
How does the Lawyer salary in California compare to the national average?
Lawyers in California earn 31% above the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 197,790.
How many Lawyers work in California?
California employs approximately 92,580 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Lawyers in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Professional Fiduciaries Bureau. Review agency details at https://www.fiduciary.ca.gov/.