How long does it take to become a lawyer?
Lawyers earn a median of about $146,000 a year (about $70/hour) in the US — from around $72,000 entering the field to $240,000+ at the top. Becoming one usually takes about 7 years: Doctoral degree (JD) + bar exam. About seven years — four undergrad plus three years of law school, then the bar.
Lawyer salary
| Entry level (10th percentile) | $72,000 |
| Median (typical) | $146,000 |
| Experienced (90th percentile) | $240,000+ |
| Median hourly | $70/hr |
Approximate US figures based on public wage data (BLS OEWS). Actual pay varies by employer, experience and location.
The path to becoming a lawyer
- 1Earn a bachelor's degree
- 2Take the LSAT and finish law school (JD, 3 yrs)
- 3Pass the bar exam
- 4Get admitted in your state
What you need
- Juris Doctor (JD)
- State bar admission
Law offers high earning potential, though pay varies widely by field and firm.
Lawyer salary by state
Local pay varies with cost of living. See an estimate for your state:
Lawyer — frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a lawyer?
It usually takes about 7 years. The typical path: Earn a bachelor's degree; Take the LSAT and finish law school (JD, 3 yrs); Pass the bar exam; Get admitted in your state.
How much do lawyers make?
The median pay is about $146,000 a year ($70/hour). Most earn between roughly $72,000 and $240,000, depending on experience, employer and location. See the state pages for local estimates.
Do you need a degree to become a lawyer?
Entry requires: Juris Doctor (JD); State bar admission. Law offers high earning potential, though pay varies widely by field and firm.
Related careers
General information to help you plan a career — not career, legal or financial advice. Salary figures are estimates and training times are typical routes; both vary by state, program and individual. Check official sources and accredited programs before making decisions.