Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Iowa, 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 Iowa
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: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Iowa Supreme Court Office of Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$107,870 median (29% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#36 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 Iowa
With a median salary of 107,870, Lawyers in Iowa earn 29% below the national median of $151,160. Iowa ranks #36 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median annual salary
$107,870Hourly estimate
$51.8629% below national median
Difference: -$43,290
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#36 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $107,870 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $137,720 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $119,970 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $157,320 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $124,210 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $104,970 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $96,550 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Missouri | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
Iowa Supreme Court Office of Professional Regulation
Iowa Judicial Building, 1111 East Court Avenue, Des Moines, IA, 50319
Phone: 5153484670
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $86,990 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $74,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $94,500 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $81,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Iowa?
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 Iowa?
Iowa 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 Iowa?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Iowa is 107,870. Salaries range from $49,530 (10th percentile) to $216,600 (90th percentile).
How does the Lawyer salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Iowa earn 29% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 107,870.
How many Lawyers work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 3,550 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to Iowa 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 Iowa?
The licensing agency is Iowa Supreme Court Office of Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.iowacourts.gov/opr/attorneys/admissions.