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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
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 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 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 6-24 months.
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 | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $157,980 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $130,570 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $126,240 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $104,160 | Degree required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Virginia | 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. |
| Georgia | 25 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
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 | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $80,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $93,590 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $102,140 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in North Carolina?
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 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. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. 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/.