Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TN Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Tennessee
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Tennessee, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in Tennessee
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Judicial Department • Board of Law Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$130,570 median (14% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#18 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 Tennessee
With a median salary of 130,570, Lawyers in Tennessee earn 14% below the national median of $151,160. Tennessee ranks #18 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,297Median annual salary
$130,570Hourly estimate
$62.7714% below national median
Difference: -$20,590
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#18 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $130,570 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $102,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $157,980 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $124,880 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $126,240 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $127,660 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $92,610 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $86,970 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $124,210 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | 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. |
| Virginia | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| North Carolina | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Georgia | 25 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Alabama | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Judicial Department • Board of Law Examiners
"401 Church Street, Suite 2200", Na, 000TN-7219
Phone: N/A
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in Tennessee
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $85,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $75,500 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $97,730 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $89,390 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in Tennessee?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in Tennessee.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Tennessee is 130,570.
How does the Lawyer salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Tennessee earn 14% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 130,570.
How many Lawyers work in Tennessee?
Tennessee employs approximately 8,830 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to Tennessee from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Lawyers in Tennessee?
The licensing agency is Judicial Department / Board of Law Examiners.