Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TX Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Texas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Texas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in Texas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Texas Board of Law Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$133,570 median (12% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#15 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 Texas
With a median salary of 133,570, Lawyers in Texas earn 12% below the national median of $151,160. Texas ranks #15 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,420Median annual salary
$133,570Hourly estimate
$64.2212% below national median
Difference: -$17,590
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#15 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $133,570 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $98,870 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $86,970 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $112,600 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $112,500 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Arkansas | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Louisiana | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 54 | Low | 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
Texas Board of Law Examiners
PO Box 13486, Austin, TX, 78711-3486
Phone: 5124631621
Related Careers in Texas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $85,770 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $80,000 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $95,050 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $82,180 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Texas?
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 Texas?
Texas lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in Texas?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in Texas.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in Texas?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Texas is 133,570.
How does the Lawyer salary in Texas compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Texas earn 12% below the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 133,570.
How many Lawyers work in Texas?
Texas employs approximately 54,680 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to Texas 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 Texas?
The licensing agency is Texas Board of Law Examiners. Review agency details at https://ble.texas.gov/home.