Application Fee
See agencyVerified by OH Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Ohio
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Ohio, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in Ohio
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Ohio Attorney General's Office
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$125,450 median (17% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#27 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 Ohio
With a median salary of 125,450, Lawyers in Ohio earn 17% below the national median of $151,160. Ohio ranks #27 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$125,450Hourly estimate
$60.3117% below national median
Difference: -$25,710
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#27 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $125,450 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $126,600 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $127,940 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $102,240 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $102,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $130,120 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Michigan | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Pennsylvania | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Ohio Attorney General's Office
See official licensing board website
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in Ohio
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $97,130 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $77,640 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $93,480 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $82,100 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Ohio?
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 is the typical Lawyer salary in Ohio?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Ohio is 125,450. Salaries range from $63,190 (10th percentile) to $228,400 (90th percentile).
How does the Lawyer salary in Ohio compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Ohio earn 17% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 125,450.
How many Lawyers work in Ohio?
Ohio employs approximately 19,690 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to Ohio 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 Ohio?
The licensing agency is Ohio Attorney General's Office. Review agency details at https://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/.