Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Board of Law Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$124,880 median (17% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#28 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet North Carolina eligibility requirements for Lawyer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to NC Board of Law Examiners and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in North Carolina
With a median salary of $124,880, Lawyers in North Carolina earn 17% below the national median of $151,160. North Carolina ranks #28 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,298Median annual salary
$124,880Hourly estimate
$60.0417% below national median
Difference: -$26,280
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#28 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $124,880 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $157,980 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $130,570 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $126,240 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| South Carolina | $104,160 | Degree required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 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
NC Board of Law Examiners
5510 Six Forks Rd., Ste. 300, Raleigh, NC, 27609
Phone: 9198484229
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $87,990 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $43,870 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $80,490 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $93,590 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in North Carolina?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in North Carolina is $124,880.
How does the Lawyer salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Lawyers in North Carolina earn 17% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of $124,880.
How many Lawyers work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 17,380 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Board of Law Examiners. Review agency details at https://ncble.org/.
How often do you renew a Lawyer license in North Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.