Passing is not admission
The usual remaining items
Common items include a completed character review, proof of a passing MPRE score, a local law course or component, an oath of office, payment of admission and registration fees, and a certificate. Some states, such as New York, also require a set amount of pro bono work and skills competency documentation, and some require professionalism or new lawyer courses or mentoring.
Deadlines after results
Some deadlines start when results are released, and missing them can delay you or require reapplication. Read your jurisdiction's post-exam steps before results come out.
The oath and swearing-in
Many jurisdictions hold swearing-in ceremonies on set dates, and some allow remote or individual swearing-in. Ask for the schedule, since ceremonies may be a few times a year.
Registration, numbers and status
After admission you register with the state's bar or court and receive an attorney number. You may need to choose active or inactive status, pay annual fees, and meet continuing legal education requirements, including initial requirements for new lawyers.
When can you practice and use the title
You can represent clients as a lawyer only after admission. Before then, you may work as a law clerk or in other roles that do not involve unauthorized practice. The title Esq. is generally used by lawyers, so wait until you are admitted. Ask your employer about start dates and what work you can do meanwhile.
Common questions
Why am I not a licensed lawyer after passing the bar?+
Passing the exam is one requirement. You may still need character clearance, an MPRE score, local law courses, fees and an oath before the court or board admits you.
Can I work as a lawyer before the swearing-in ceremony?+
Not as a lawyer. You are not admitted until the court or board admits you, though you can often work as a law clerk or in another role that does not involve unauthorized practice.
Do new lawyers have extra requirements?+
Some jurisdictions require professionalism courses, mentoring, pro bono or skills documentation, or initial continuing legal education in the first years, so check your state's rules.
What to do next
- 1
Read your jurisdiction's post-exam checklist now.
- 2
Put ceremony and fee deadlines in your calendar.
- 3
Confirm with your employer what work you can do before admission.