Career roadmap
How to Become a Lawyer
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a lawyer, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a lawyer: (1) earn a bachelor’s, (2) take the LSAT, (3) earn a J.D., (4) pass the bar, (5) practice. Most people need about 7 years after high school. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a lawyer
Earn a bachelor’s
Any major.
Take the LSAT
Admission test.
Earn a J.D.
Three years.
Pass the bar
State exam.
Practice
Firm, government or in-house.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree, a Juris Doctor (J.D.) and a state bar license are required.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 7 years after high school |
Certifications and licenses
- State bar admission: Required.
- Board certification: Specialty credential.
- MPRE: Ethics exam.
- LL.M.: Advanced law degree, optional.
Skills to build now
Start with legal research, legal writing, and negotiation, and practice persuasion and critical thinking. Learning the lawyer vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Associate: Entry.
- Senior Associate: Lead cases.
- Partner: Own clients.
- General Counsel or Judge: Top roles.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Lawyer training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a lawyer?
About seven years after high school: four of college and three of law school.
How long does it take to become a lawyer?
Most people need about 7 years after high school of training. A bachelor’s degree, a Juris Doctor (J.D.) and a state bar license are required.
Do you need a degree to be a lawyer?
Yes. Lawyers need a bachelor’s degree, a three-year Juris Doctor (J.D.) from law school and a passing score on a state bar exam.
What certifications are available for lawyers?
Common credentials include State bar admission, Board certification, MPRE, and LL.M.. Lawyers must pass a state bar exam and be admitted to the bar to practice law.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 23-1011 (Lawyers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Lawyers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.