Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Business
Lawyer Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for lawyer in Washington, 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 Washington
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
Washington State Bar Association
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$151,950 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#10 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Washington 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 Washington State Bar Association and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $151,950, Lawyers in Washington earn 1% above the national median of $151,160. Washington ranks #10 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$151,950Hourly estimate
$73.051% above national median
Difference: +$790
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLawyer Salary Ranking
#10 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 regionLicense 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Idaho | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Washington State Bar Association
1325 Fourth Ave, Ste 600, Seattle, WA, 98101-2539
Phone: 2062392197
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $97,800 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audio and Video Technicians | $73,160 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Certified Public Accountant | $96,180 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Civil Engineer | $105,090 | No educational requirements | 8 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Lawyer in Washington?
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 Washington?
Washington lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Lawyers.
What education do you need to become a Lawyer in Washington?
The board typically expects Degree required for Lawyer licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Lawyer salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Lawyers in Washington is $151,950.
How does the Lawyer salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Lawyers in Washington earn 1% above the national median of $151,160, with a state median of $151,950.
How many Lawyers work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 13,140 Lawyers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Lawyer license to Washington 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 Washington?
The licensing agency is Washington State Bar Association. Review agency details at http://www.wsba.org/.
How often do you renew a Lawyer license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.