Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MA Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Bar Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$179,050 median (18% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 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 Massachusetts
With a median salary of 179,050, Lawyers in Massachusetts earn 18% above the national median of $151,160. Massachusetts ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,805Median annual salary
$179,050Hourly estimate
$86.0818% above national median
Difference: +$27,890
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $179,050 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $122,640 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $101,090 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $177,210 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $159,240 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Rhode Island | $128,920 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| New Hampshire | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Rhode Island | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Board of Bar Examiners
77 Franklin Street, Room 501, Boston, MA, 02110
Phone: 6174824467
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $101,980 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $96,580 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $104,450 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $101,320 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts?
Massachusetts lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in Massachusetts?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in Massachusetts.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Massachusetts is 179,050.
How does the Lawyer salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Massachusetts earn 18% above the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 179,050.
How many Lawyers work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 22,020 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Board of Bar Examiners. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/courts/court-info/sjc/attorneys-bar-applicants/bbe/.