Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
RI Supreme Court • Board of Bar Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$128,920 median (15% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#20 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 Rhode Island
With a median salary of 128,920, Lawyers in Rhode Island earn 15% below the national median of $151,160. Rhode Island ranks #20 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,294Median annual salary
$128,920Hourly estimate
$61.9815% below national median
Difference: -$22,240
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#20 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $128,920 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $179,050 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $159,240 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Massachusetts | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Connecticut | 54 | 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
RI Supreme Court • Board of Bar Examiners
250 Benefit St, Providence, RI, 02903
Phone: 4012223272
Related Careers in Rhode Island
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $106,950 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $90,040 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $112,250 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $100,880 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island?
Rhode Island lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in Rhode Island?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Rhode Island is 128,920. Salaries range from $76,850 (10th percentile) to $216,680 (90th percentile).
How does the Lawyer salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Rhode Island earn 15% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 128,920.
How many Lawyers work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 1,910 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Supreme Court / Board of Bar Examiners. Review agency details at https://www.courts.ri.gov/AttorneyResources/Pages/AttorneyResources.aspx.