Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Virginia, 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 Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Supreme Court of Virginia • Virginia Board of Bar Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$157,980 median (5% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#8 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 Virginia
With a median salary of 157,980, Lawyers in Virginia earn 5% above the national median of $151,160. Virginia ranks #8 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,471Median annual salary
$157,980Hourly estimate
$75.955% above national median
Difference: +$6,820
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#8 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $157,980 | Degree required | State 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 |
| Kentucky | $102,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $130,570 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $124,880 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 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. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- 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
Supreme Court of Virginia • Virginia Board of Bar Examiners
2201 West Broad Street, Suite 101, Richmond, VA, 23220-2022
Phone: 8043670412
Related Careers in Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $97,140 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $84,190 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $96,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $99,990 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Virginia lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Virginia is 157,980.
How does the Lawyer salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Virginia earn 5% above the national median of $151,160, with a state median of 157,980.
How many Lawyers work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 18,420 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to Virginia 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 Virginia?
The licensing agency is Supreme Court of Virginia / Virginia Board of Bar Examiners. Review agency details at https://barexam.virginia.gov/index.html.