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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in Montana
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
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 Montana 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 State Bar of Montana and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,173Median 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 | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $104,940 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $96,550 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $100,170 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Idaho | $102,280 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| North Dakota | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Dakota | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Wyoming | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Idaho | 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
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 | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $43,500 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $74,400 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $80,390 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Montana?
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 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. 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.
How often do you renew a Lawyer license in Montana?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.