Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Kentucky Bar Association • Office of Bar Admissions
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$102,670 median (32% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#40 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 Kentucky
With a median salary of 102,670, Lawyers in Kentucky earn 32% below the national median of $151,160. Kentucky ranks #40 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median annual salary
$102,670Hourly estimate
$49.3632% below national median
Difference: -$48,490
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#40 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $102,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $130,120 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $125,450 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $102,240 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $157,980 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $130,570 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $124,210 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $157,320 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. |
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | 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
Kentucky Bar Association • Office of Bar Admissions
1510 Newtown Pike, Suite 156, Lexington, KY, 40511-1255
Phone: 8592462381ext226
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $93,230 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $72,220 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $100,200 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $79,100 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
Kentucky lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Kentucky is 102,670. Salaries range from $53,860 (10th percentile) to $193,980 (90th percentile).
How does the Lawyer salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Kentucky earn 32% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 102,670.
How many Lawyers work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 6,380 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Kentucky Bar Association / Office of Bar Admissions. Review agency details at http://www.kyoba.org/.