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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in North Dakota
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
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 North Dakota 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 ND State Board of Law Examiners and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,258Median 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 | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $137,720 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $96,550 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Montana | $100,750 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Montana | 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
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 | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $45,740 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $72,180 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $96,160 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in North Dakota?
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 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. 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.
How often do you renew a Lawyer license in North Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.