Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IL Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Illinois, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in Illinois
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Supreme Court
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$157,320 median (4% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#9 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Illinois eligibility requirements for Lawyer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to Illinois Supreme Court and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Illinois
With a median salary of $157,320, Lawyers in Illinois earn 4% above the national median of $151,160. Illinois ranks #9 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,451Median annual salary
$157,320Hourly estimate
$75.634% above national median
Difference: +$6,160
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#9 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $157,320 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $119,970 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $107,870 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $124,210 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $102,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $130,120 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Iowa | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Missouri | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Kentucky | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Indiana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Illinois Supreme Court
Supreme Court Building, Springfield, IL, 62706
Phone: 2177822035
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $79,320 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $55,030 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $79,300 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $97,640 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Illinois?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Illinois is $157,320.
How does the Lawyer salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Illinois earn 4% above the national median of $151,160, with a state median of $157,320.
How many Lawyers work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 33,430 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to Illinois from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Lawyers in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Supreme Court. Review agency details at http://www.state.il.us/court.
How often do you renew a Lawyer license in Illinois?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.