Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MD Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Maryland
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Maryland, 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 Maryland
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
State Board of Law Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$143,490 median (5% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#12 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 Maryland
With a median salary of 143,490, Lawyers in Maryland earn 5% below the national median of $151,160. Maryland ranks #12 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,497Median annual salary
$143,490Hourly estimate
$68.995% below national median
Difference: -$7,670
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#12 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $143,490 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $127,940 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $172,710 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 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 |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Pennsylvania | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Delaware | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| 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. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
State Board of Law Examiners
251 Rowe Boulevard, 3rd floor, Annapolis, MD, 21401
Phone: 4102601975
Related Careers in Maryland
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $99,210 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $84,890 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $100,320 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $122,510 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Maryland?
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 Maryland?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Maryland is 143,490.
How does the Lawyer salary in Maryland compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Maryland earn 5% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 143,490.
How many Lawyers work in Maryland?
Maryland employs approximately 16,420 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to Maryland 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 Maryland?
The licensing agency is State Board of Law Examiners. Review agency details at http://www.courts.state.md.us/ble/index.html.