Application Fee
See agencyLawyer Licensing in Colorado
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Colorado, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in Colorado
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Colorado Supreme Court • Office of Attorney Regulation Counsel
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$167,970 median (11% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#5 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 Colorado
With a median salary of 167,970, Lawyers in Colorado earn 11% above the national median of $151,160. Colorado ranks #5 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,540Median annual salary
$167,970Hourly estimate
$80.75Difference: +$16,810
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
| 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | $167,970 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $100,170 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $104,970 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Kansas | $112,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $98,870 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $112,500 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $133,360 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Utah | $125,710 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Kansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Mexico | 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
Colorado Supreme Court • Office of Attorney Regulation Counsel
1300 Broadway Ste 500, Denver, CO, 80203
Phone: 3034575800
Related Careers in Colorado
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $95,620 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $90,030 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $99,590 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $85,580 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Colorado?
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 Colorado?
Colorado lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in Colorado?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in Colorado.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in Colorado?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Colorado is 167,970.
How does the Lawyer salary in Colorado compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Colorado earn 11% above the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 167,970.
How many Lawyers work in Colorado?
Colorado employs approximately 17,160 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to Colorado 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 Colorado?
The licensing agency is Colorado Supreme Court / Office of Attorney Regulation Counsel.