Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MN Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Minnesota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Minnesota, 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 Minnesota
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
Minnesota Attorney General (AG) • AG
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$137,720 median (9% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#14 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 Minnesota
With a median salary of 137,720, Lawyers in Minnesota earn 9% below the national median of $151,160. Minnesota ranks #14 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,407Median annual salary
$137,720Hourly estimate
$66.219% below national median
Difference: -$13,440
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#14 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Iowa | $107,870 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $96,550 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $104,940 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Minnesota Attorney General (AG) • AG
1400 Bremer Tower, 445 Minnesota Street, St. Paul, MN, 55101
Phone: 6512963353
Related Careers in Minnesota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $95,380 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $81,100 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $101,440 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $94,420 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Minnesota?
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 Minnesota?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Minnesota is 137,720.
How does the Lawyer salary in Minnesota compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Minnesota earn 9% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 137,720.
How many Lawyers work in Minnesota?
Minnesota employs approximately 12,880 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
The licensing agency is Minnesota Attorney General (AG) / AG. Review agency details at http://www.ag.state.mn.us/.