Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MO Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Missouri
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Missouri, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in Missouri
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Missouri Board of Law Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$124,210 median (18% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#29 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 Missouri
With a median salary of 124,210, Lawyers in Missouri earn 18% below the national median of $151,160. Missouri ranks #29 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,232Median annual salary
$124,210Hourly estimate
$59.7218% below national median
Difference: -$26,950
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#29 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri | $124,210 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $107,870 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $157,320 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $102,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $130,570 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $86,970 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $98,870 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kansas | $112,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $104,970 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Kentucky | 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. |
| Arkansas | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Missouri Board of Law Examiners
1700 Jefferson St, Jefferson City, MO, 65109
Phone: 5737519814
Related Careers in Missouri
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $97,970 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $73,210 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $93,020 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $84,040 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Missouri?
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 Missouri?
Missouri lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in Missouri?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in Missouri.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in Missouri?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Missouri is 124,210.
How does the Lawyer salary in Missouri compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Missouri earn 18% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 124,210.
How many Lawyers work in Missouri?
Missouri employs approximately 11,950 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to Missouri 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 Missouri?
The licensing agency is Missouri Board of Law Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.mble.org/.