Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MT Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Montana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Montana, 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 Montana
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
State Bar of Montana
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$100,750 median (33% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#44 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 Montana
With a median salary of 100,750, Lawyers in Montana earn 33% below the national median of $151,160. Montana ranks #44 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$100,750Hourly estimate
$48.4433% below national median
Difference: -$50,410
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#44 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $100,750 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $104,940 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $96,550 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $100,170 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Idaho | $102,280 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | 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. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 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
State Bar of Montana
7 West 6th Avenue, Suite 2B, PO Box 577, Helena, MT, 59624
Phone: 4064427660
Related Careers in Montana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $82,670 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $74,400 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $80,390 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $96,670 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Montana?
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 Montana?
Montana lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in Montana?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in Montana.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in Montana?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Montana is 100,750. Salaries range from $56,180 (10th percentile) to $192,280 (90th percentile).
How does the Lawyer salary in Montana compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Montana earn 33% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 100,750.
How many Lawyers work in Montana?
Montana employs approximately 2,460 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to Montana 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 Montana?
The licensing agency is State Bar of Montana. Review agency details at https://www.montanabar.org/default.aspx.