Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ND Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in North Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in North Dakota, 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 North Dakota
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
ND State Board of Law Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$104,940 median (31% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#38 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 Dakota
With a median salary of 104,940, Lawyers in North Dakota earn 31% below the national median of $151,160. North Dakota ranks #38 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$104,940Hourly estimate
$50.4531% below national median
Difference: -$46,220
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#38 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 Dakota | $104,940 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $137,720 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $96,550 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $100,750 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Montana | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- 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
ND State Board of Law Examiners
600 E Boulevard Ave, Judicial Wing, 1st Fl, Bismarck, ND, 58505-0530
Phone: 7013284201
Related Careers in North Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $77,640 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $72,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $96,160 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $98,990 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in North Dakota?
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 Dakota?
North Dakota lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in North Dakota?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in North Dakota.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in North Dakota?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in North Dakota is 104,940. Salaries range from $75,000 (10th percentile) to $189,260 (90th percentile).
How does the Lawyer salary in North Dakota compare to the national average?
Lawyers in North Dakota earn 31% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 104,940.
How many Lawyers work in North Dakota?
North Dakota employs approximately 1,070 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to North Dakota 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 Dakota?
The licensing agency is ND State Board of Law Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.ndcourts.gov/supreme-court/committees/board-of-law-examiners.