Application Fee
See agencyVerified by PA Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Pennsylvania
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Supreme Court of Pennsylvania • Pennsylvania Board of Law Examiners • Pennsylvania Board of Law Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$127,940 median (15% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#21 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 Pennsylvania
With a median salary of 127,940, Lawyers in Pennsylvania earn 15% below the national median of $151,160. Pennsylvania ranks #21 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.7%Average Weekly Wage
$1,364Median annual salary
$127,940Hourly estimate
$61.5115% below national median
Difference: -$23,220
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#21 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $127,940 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $177,210 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $158,470 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $172,710 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $143,490 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $102,240 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $125,450 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New York | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Jersey | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Delaware | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 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
Supreme Court of Pennsylvania • Pennsylvania Board of Law Examiners • Pennsylvania Board of Law Examiners
P.O. Box 62535, Harrisburg, PA, 17106
Phone: 7177957270
Related Careers in Pennsylvania
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $95,640 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $77,330 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $92,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $103,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in Pennsylvania?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in Pennsylvania.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in Pennsylvania?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Pennsylvania is 127,940.
How does the Lawyer salary in Pennsylvania compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Pennsylvania earn 15% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 127,940.
How many Lawyers work in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania employs approximately 26,340 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The licensing agency is Supreme Court of Pennsylvania / Pennsylvania Board of Law Examiners / Pennsylvania Board of Law Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.pabarexam.org/.