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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in Illinois
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
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 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 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 6-24 months.
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 | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $119,970 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $107,870 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $124,210 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $102,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $130,120 | Degree required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Kentucky | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
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 | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $79,300 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $97,640 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $104,310 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Illinois?
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 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. 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 Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Supreme Court. Review agency details at http://www.state.il.us/court.