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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Lawyer in Virginia
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
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 Virginia eligibility requirements for Lawyer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Supreme Court of Virginia~Virginia Board of Bar Examiners and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
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 | Varies by board |
| Maryland | $143,490 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $102,240 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $102,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $130,570 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| North Carolina | $124,880 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Kentucky | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| North Carolina | 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
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 | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $50,990 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $84,190 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $96,210 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Virginia?
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 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. 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.
How often do you renew a Lawyer license in Virginia?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.