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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in Massachusetts
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
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 Massachusetts eligibility requirements for Lawyer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Board of Bar Examiners and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
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 | Varies by board |
| New Hampshire | $122,640 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Vermont | $101,090 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New York | $177,210 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $159,240 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Rhode Island | $128,920 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Hampshire | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Vermont | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New York | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Rhode Island | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $61,680 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $96,580 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $104,450 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Massachusetts?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Lawyer license in Massachusetts?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.