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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in Rhode Island
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
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 Rhode Island 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 RI Supreme Court~Board of Bar Examiners and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
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 | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $179,050 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $159,240 | Degree required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Massachusetts | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Connecticut | 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
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 | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $57,250 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $90,040 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $112,250 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Rhode Island?
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 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. 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.
How often do you renew a Lawyer license in Rhode Island?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.