Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NJ Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in New Jersey
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in New Jersey, 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 New Jersey
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
Board of Bar Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$158,470 median (5% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#7 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 New Jersey
With a median salary of 158,470, Lawyers in New Jersey earn 5% above the national median of $151,160. New Jersey ranks #7 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,565Median annual salary
$158,470Hourly estimate
$76.195% above national median
Difference: +$7,310
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#7 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $158,470 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $177,210 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $127,940 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $172,710 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| New York | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Delaware | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Board of Bar Examiners
PO Box 973, Trenton, NJ, 8625
Phone: 6099847783
Related Careers in New Jersey
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $97,980 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $101,340 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $103,690 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $123,690 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in New Jersey?
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 New Jersey?
New Jersey lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in New Jersey?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in New Jersey.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in New Jersey?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in New Jersey is 158,470.
How does the Lawyer salary in New Jersey compare to the national average?
Lawyers in New Jersey earn 5% above the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 158,470.
How many Lawyers work in New Jersey?
New Jersey employs approximately 23,360 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
The licensing agency is Board of Bar Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.njbarexams.org/home.