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TEXAS BOARD of LAW EXAMINERS

TEXAS BOARD of LAW EXAMINERS

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


This information is not a substitute for reading the Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas and the relevant sections of the Texas Government Code, which can be found in the Rulebook.

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February 2024 Texas Bar Exam (UBE)

Admission by Texas Bar Exam

Admission by UBE Transfer (UBET)

Admission Without Examination (AWOX)

- How do I apply for Admission Without Examination (AWOX)?
- Do you have a checklist to help tell me what documents are required for my application?
- What activities count as being actively and substantially engaged in the lawful practice of law?
- What documentation is required to substantiate my active and substantial practice of law for Rule 13 admission?
- I am applying for AWOX. Do I need to file my application according to the deadlines provided in Rule 9?
- I am a self-employed attorney. The Employment History section asks for a verifying reference. Who is an acceptable self-employment reference?
- How long does the AWOX process take?
- I am employed as an attorney in Texas, but I am not licensed to practice law in Texas. Can my employment be counted toward the AWOX practice time requirement?
- I no longer have a copy of 1 or more years of my tax returns that are required to be submitted with my AWOX application, how can I obtain a copy of my return/s?
- How do I provide proof of my scaled score of 85 or higher on the MPRE?
- How do I provide proof of my J.D. degree?
- I previously failed the Texas Bar Examination, but have since been licensed in another jurisdiction. Can I apply for AWOX?
- My employer does not have an official job description. What documentation should I provide in lieu of this?
- Can I submit an AWOX application before I have satisfied the 5-year practice requirement?
- I am unsure whether I qualify for AWOX. Can I call and ask whether I am eligible to file?

ATLAS

Checklists

Declaration and Bar Exam Applications

- What types of applications require an uploaded photo?
- What are the requirements for an uploaded photo?
- What are the filing deadlines for the Declaration of Intent to Study Law? (Texas JD students only.)
- I've missed the final filing deadline to apply for the Texas Bar Exam. Can I still take the exam?
- If I am a Texas law student, do I have to file my Declaration before I file my In-State Application? (Texas law students only.)
- I am completing an In-State Law Student Application. Do I have to list information that was previously provided in the Employment or Character & Fitness sections on my Declaration? (Texas law students only.)
- Do you have a checklist to help tell me what documents are required for my application?
- What documentation is accepted as proof of my citizenship status, USCIS status, or other compliance with Rule 2(a)(5)?
- How do I obtain a certified birth certificate?
- May I use law professors as a reference in the Attorney References section of my Declaration?
- How do I provide proof of my ABA-Approved J.D. degree?
- The instructions state that a signed copy of my law school application is required. What does this mean?
- How do I respond on the employment history section of Board forms if:
- Do offenses that are the subject to orders of non-disclosure need to be revealed?
- Do expunged or sealed offenses need to be revealed?
- I’m completing Criminal History or Civil Litigation questions. What is a "cause number"? What does "style" mean?
- How do I obtain court records or arrest/offense/incident reports for criminal history disclosure?
- I received a letter from my Licensure Analyst instructing me to update my law school application and to provide a copy of the school’s disposition to my update. How do I comply with this by the deadline given by my Analyst?
- The 30-day grace period to provide outstanding third-party documentation to supplement my application is approaching, but I have not received the requested documentation. Will my application be rejected? Will I owe any additional fees?
- Does my character and fitness investigation have to be completed before I can sit for the bar exam?
- Will I be notified when my character and fitness investigation has been completed?
- How do I withdraw my bar exam application?
- How do I have my MBE score transferred to another jurisdiction?
- Does Texas accept MBE scores transferred from other jurisdictions?

Fees

Fingerprints

Foreign Legal Consultants (FLC)

Foreign-Trained Applicants

- Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, some of my LL.M. classes were completed online.
- I received my legal education outside of the U.S. or its territories. Can I take the bar exam?
- Summary of Eligibility Requirements for Foreign-Educated Applicants to take the Texas Bar Examination.
- I am licensed to practice law in a U.S. state. Can I sit for the bar exam?
- I am unsure whether I qualify to take the bar exam under Rule 13. Can I call and receive an opinion from Board Staff about my eligibility?
- In addition to passing the bar exam, what other requirements must I meet in order to be eligible to be licensed as a Texas attorney?
- Do you have a checklist to help tell me what documents are required for my application?
- How do I satisfy the requirements of Rule 2(a)(5)?
- How do I apply to take the bar exam as a foreign-trained applicant?
- If I am applying pursuant to Rule 13 §4(a), how must I document my active and substantial practice of law?
- I received my initial law degree from a foreign law school, and I am licensed to practice law in another U.S. state. If I want to apply for admission to the Texas Bar, what filing fee must I submit with my application?
- I am enrolled in an LL.M. program in a Texas law school. Do I need to file a Declaration of Intention to Study Law?
- How do I take the oath if I am not in the United States?
- When is the best time for me to file my application for a particular exam?
- If an LL.M. degree from an ABA-approved law school is required for my application to sit for the bar exam, can I apply while I am completing my LL.M?
- Approximately how long will it be before I find out whether I am eligible to sit for the bar examination?
- I am re-applying for the bar exam. Do I have to list information that I provided in the Employment or Character & Fitness sections of my previous application?
- I am re-applying for the bar exam. Do I need to submit another birth certificate or get re-fingerprinted? Is there any third-party documentation that must be resubmitted?
- I have an LL.M. from an ABA-approved law school, but it does not satisfy the new curricular requirements set out in Rule 13.
- I am in the process of completing an LL.M. degree at an ABA-approved law school, but it may not satisfy the new curricular requirements set out in Rule 13 §9.

Grade Release, Swearing-In, and Licensing

Laptop Testing

Military Spouses

MPRE

Non-Resident Attorney Fee (Pro Hac Vice)

- How do I submit a non-resident attorney fee?
- What will I receive from the Board of Law Examiners after I submit my Non-Resident Attorney Fee Submission Form?
- When will I receive my Acknowledgment Letter?
- TROUBLE SHOOTING
- Can I fax in a Submission Form?
- After I pay the non-resident attorney fee, what else must I do in order to participate in the proceedings of a cause in a Texas court?
- Who decides a non-resident attorney’s motion for permission to participate in a Texas proceeding?
- Does a non-resident attorney have to pay the non-resident attorney fee and comply with Rule 19 in order to seek permission to participate in the following:
- Is another fee required if a case is appealed to an appellate court?
- Do non-resident attorneys have to satisfy the fee if they are employed by government agencies or nonprofit entities?
- Can the fee be waived?
- Will the fee be refunded if the case is dismissed or settles, another attorney substitutes in, or the court denies a motion to participate in the proceeding?
- Can a non-resident attorney pay one fee to cover multiple cases?
- Can a single fee cover multiple non-resident attorneys who work for the same law firm and seek to participate in the same case?
- Can one payment be submitted to cover more than one fee?
- How does the Board apply the non-resident attorney fees?
- Do I have to be associated with a Texas attorney?
- Should a motion to the Court be filed simultaneously with the application to the Board?
- Is expedited processing available?

Practice Time Requirements

Presentations

Reapplications; Special Filing Periods

Reinstatements and Returns to Status

Rule 2(a)(5)

Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas

Supervised Practice of Law by Qualified Law Students and Qualified Unlicensed Law School Graduates in Texas

Texas Law Component

Texas Lawyers' Assistance Program (TLAP)

Testing Accommodations

Uniform Bar Examination (UBE)

Waiver Requests

General FAQs


February 2024 Texas Bar Exam (UBE)


When and where is the February 2024 Texas Bar Exam?

The Texas Bar Exam (UBE) will be administered February 27-28, 2024 at the Austin Convention Center. For information on the exam site, see February Exam Site.

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Where can I find the Texas Bar Exam General Instructions? The Security Policy? The Honor Pledge?

See Texas Bar Exam General Instructions

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I need help with laptop registration.

For information about laptop registration, see our Laptop Information page  (https://ble.texas.gov/laptop-application

If you encounter any technical issues with ILG Exam360:

--Submit a technical support ticket directly from your ILG Exam360 user account; or

--Submit a technical support ticket from the "My Account" tab in ILG Exam360 software; or

--Call 833.ILG.SUPP (833.454.7877).

Do not contact the Texas Board of Law Examiners for technical support with ILG Exam360. We will not be able to help.

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What items can I bring into the exam room? What items are Prohibited?

Required Items. You must present the following items to enter the Secure Area:

  • Admission Ticket
  • Valid, unexpired government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or a passport

Allowed Items.  In addition to the Required Items listed above, you are allowed to bring the following items into the Secure Area:

  • Water in a see-through container, or a see-through water bottle
  • Pencils (non-mechanical)
  • Pens, highlighters (Tuesday only. Not allowed on Wednesday.)
  • Erasers
  • Keys, key cards
  • Cash, credit cards
  • Sweater or jacket
  • Prescription medicine, in its original packaging
  • Prescription eyeglasses (no cases, no cleaning cloths, no dark lenses)
  • Contact lenses, in individual containers (no boxes, no bottles of solution)
  • Individually-wrapped feminine hygiene products, which may be stored in an opaque box
  • Items that have been pre-authorized in a written Special Arrangement for Health-Related Conditions 
  • One clear plastic bag to hold smaller Allowed Items 
  • Authorized laptop, extension cord, external mouse, mouse pad with no pictures or text, external keyboard, cooling stand (Tuesday only. Not allowed on Wednesday.)

All other items are Prohibited Items—you cannot bring them into the exam room.  If an item is not listed as a Required Item or an Allowed Item, then it is a Prohibited Item and you cannot bring it into the Secure Area. Cell phones are Prohibited. If you bring a cell phone into the Secure Area, we may immediately disqualify you from the exam. We may confiscate Prohibited Items from you and retain them as necessary for inspection. We will report violations to the Board, who could nullify your exam results, conduct a hearing into your character and fitness, and/or take other actions. You cannot bring Prohibited Items into the Secure Area. At the Austin, DFW, and Houston sites, you can check a cell phone with Mobile Lockers. In case of rain, all sites will designate a non-secure umbrella drop for umbrellas only. Otherwise, we will not provide any place for you to store Prohibited Items anywhere at the exam site, and we will dispose of any unattended items we find anywhere at the exam site.   

Examples of Prohibited Items include:

  • Study materials
  • Cell phones, smart watches, fitness trackers, cameras, scanners, recorders, and any other electronic device
  • Watches of any type, timers, clocks
  • Laptop privacy screens / filters / films are prohibited. We must be able to easily view the content on your laptop screen during the exam.
  • Mechanical pencils
  • Pencil sharpeners
  • Pens and highlighters on Wednesday (MBE day)
  • Lunches, snacks, food, beverages (other than water in a see-through container), candy, gum, mints, cough drops
  • Hats, scarves, headgear (except religious items)
  • Laptop bags, laptop sleeve, backpacks, purses, tote bags, luggage (hotels will usually hold luggage for you after you check out)
  • Headphones, ear plugs, or any sound suppression device 
  • Billfolds, wallets, cardholders
  • Lip balm, tissue, lotion, eye drops, over-the-counter medicine
  • Calculators
  • Smoking paraphernalia
  • Weapons and guns—even if you have a license to carry a concealed handgun
  • Anything that is not a Required Item or an Allowed Item is Prohibited

Provided Items. We will provide the following at each test site:

  • Clocks or countdown timers, which will be clearly displayed and visible from each seat at each test site
  • Water fountains OR water filling stations—please bring water in a see-through container, or a see-through water bottle
  • Foam ear plugs
  • Tissue
  • Cough drops

Empty pockets. Any pockets in your clothing must be empty. Place your smaller Allowed Items in a clear plastic bag.

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Where can I store Prohibited Items at the exam site? Will the BLE have a place for me to put my bag, wallet, study materials, lunch, or other Prohibited Items?

We will arrange for Mobile Lockers to be at the Austin site to store cell phones and watches.

We will provide a place for umbrellas, but the umbrella drop will not be secure.

Otherwise, we will not provide any place for you to store your backpack, purse, wallet, luggage, study materials, or any other Prohibited Item.

If we find unattended backpacks, purses, wallets, study materials, or other Prohibited Items left in the halls, foyers, entryways, or other common areas of the exam site during the exam, we will throw them away.

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Admission by Texas Bar Exam


How do I apply for admission by Texas Bar Exam?

Click here for information on how to submit an application through ATLAS, and for answers to other frequently asked questions about ATLAS.

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Where can I find information about the Bar Exam?

Start here: Bar Exam >  Current Exam

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Where are the General Instructions for the Texas Bar Examination?

The General Instructions are located here: Bar Exam > Current Exam > General Instructions. You may view them online, download them and open them in Adobe (which will allow you to use the hyperlinked table of contents and bookmarks), or print them. 

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When can I apply for the Texas Bar Exam? What are the filing deadlines?

See https://ble.texas.gov/deadlines.

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Can I sit for the Texas Bar Examination if I have not yet received my J.D. degree?

Maybe. In order to sit for the Texas Bar Examination, you must simply meet the law study requirement in Rule 3, which states that you must have received a J.D. degree from an ABA-approved law school, or be within 4 semester hours (or 6 quarter hours) of your degree. Your law school must certify that you meet the law study requirement by submitting proof directly to our office. Texas law schools will typically verify their students’ status before we issue admission tickets. You should remain in contact with your law school to ensure that your law school will be able to submit this certification to the Board by the appropriate time in order for you to be eligible to receive an admission ticket for the exam that you applied for.

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How do I request accommodations on the Texas Bar Exam?

Start here: How to Request Accommodations on the Texas Bar Exam

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How will I know at which exam site I will be taking the Texas Bar Examination?

There is a good chance you will be assigned to your first choice of exam site; however, you may be moved to another site.  If this occurs, you will be notified.  Please note that exam site assignments are not considered confirmed until admission tickets are delivered (approximately 4 weeks before the exam). 

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How do I change exam testing locations?

Message your Licensure Analyst. Your Licensure Analyst will let you know whether or not you can change exam locations. 

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What bar review courses are available?

The Board is not affiliated with any companies that handle bar review courses. We have been given the following names for distribution:

This list is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement of any particular bar review course. There may be other bar review courses of which the Board is not aware.

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Are copies of prior exams available?

Past exams are available under the Bar Exam tab.

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How can I obtain MPT sample questions and/or practice MBE questions?

Sample questions may be obtained by writing to:

National Conference of Bar Examiners
402 West Wilson Street
Madison, WI 53703-3614
608-280-8550 or 800-782-5976

 A link is available on the Other Links button on our home page.

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How do I add my NCBE number to my Personal Info in ATLAS?

Click here for the steps to update your Personal Info (including your NCBE number) in ATLAS. 

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How can I get a copy of my MBE score?
  • You can probably print what you want from your ATLAS account.
  • To request unofficial MBE scores, please send a signed, written request outlining the requested material(s), including the applicant's name at time of exam, birthdate, last four digits of the applicant's social security number, approximate month/date of exam, and the physical address where you’d like the information mailed. You may submit the signed request by mail, fax, or email. See Contact Us for addresses and numbers. 
  • To request us to mail an official MBE score to another jurisdiction, please complete the online request at https://ble.texas.gov/displaymbetransferform.action. There is a fee for this service.
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Can I take the Texas Bar Exam (UBE) if I will only use my score to get licensed in another UBE jurisdiction?

Yes, you can apply for a Courtesy Seat if you want to take the Texas Bar Exam (UBE) for the sole purpose of using the score to get licensed in another UBE jurisdiction. It is up to you to determine whether that other jurisdiction will accept a score earned as a Courtesy Seat examinee in Texas, what you need to file with that jurisdiction, and when you need to file it there. 

If you want to get admitted to Texas, do not apply for a Courtesy Seat. Instead, submit a Bar Exam application.

To apply for a Courtesy Seat:

The fee is $300, plus any applicable laptop fees and late fees. All bar exam filing deadlines and late fees apply.

Please note that Courtesy Seats are for those seeking admission outside Texas only. If you want to get admitted to Texas, do not apply for a Courtesy SeatInstead, submit a Bar Exam application. UBE scores earned through Courtesy Seats in Texas cannot necessarily then be transferred to Texas. If you were to seek admission to Texas based on a UBE score you earned through a Courtesy Seat in Texas, you would have to submit and pay for a UBE Transfer Application (not a re-application) and request a waiver of Rule 13 section 1, which provides for admission by transfer of a UBE score earned in another State and does not provide for admission by transfer of a UBE score earned in Texas. The burden would be yours to show good cause for waiving the Rule in your case. Our investigation of your character and fitness would not begin unless and until the waiver is granted--the investigation could take up to 9 months and may include inquiries into why you applied for a Courtesy Seat in the first place. 

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Admission by UBE Transfer (UBET)


I have a UBE score. How do I transfer it to Texas? (Updated to reflect 2/15/22 amendment)
  • You may submit a UBE Transfer Application to transfer a qualifying UBE score to Texas. 
  • A qualifying UBE score is a score that is 270 or higher and that was earned within the five years immediately preceding the filing of the Application. (Per Rule 13 sec. 1 as amended 2/15/22.)
  • A UBE score is “earned” on the last day of the exam administration.
  • Scores that were earned more than five years ago cannot be transferred.
  • In addition to submitting a UBE Transfer Application to us, you must also contact the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE), and request that they transfer your score to us. http://www.ncbex.org/ncbe-exam-score-services/ube-score-services/
  • Once you submit your UBE Transfer Application, we will conduct a character and fitness investigation. This investigation can take up to nine months.
  • In addition to submitting a UBE Transfer Application to transfer a qualifying UBE score, you will need to satisfy all other licensing requirements set out in Rule 2, including requirements to:
    • Have a J.D. from an ABA-approved law school, or satisfy each element of an exception in Rule 13.
    • Satisfy the Texas Law Component by completing the Texas Law Course (TLC).
    • Document a score of 85 or higher on the MPRE.
  • For instructions on submitting the application, see How do I submit an application in ATLAS?
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In the past, I applied to transfer a UBE score but my application was rejected. After Rule 13 sec. 1 was amended on 2/15/2022, my UBE score qualifies for transfer. How do I re-apply? (Added 2/17/22.)

On February 15, 2022, the Supreme Court of Texas amended Rule 13 §1 of the Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas. Now, a UBE score of 270 qualifies for transfer to Texas--without any practice time requirement--if the score was earned within the 5 years immediately preceding the filing of your most recent UBE Transfer Application or Re-application.

If you submitted a UBE transfer application in the past and were rejected for lack of practice time, you can re-apply if your UBE score is 270 or higher and was earned within the last 5 years. To re-apply for admission by UBE transfer, see How do I submit an application in ATLAS?

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Do you have a checklist to help tell me what documents are required for my application?

Yes: checklists section of our FAQs.

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Who do I contact to have my UBE score reported to Texas?

In addition to submitting a UBE Transfer Application to us, you must also contact the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE), and request that they transfer your score to us. http://www.ncbex.org/ncbe-exam-score-services/ube-score-services/

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What are the fees for applying for admission to the Texas bar with a transferred UBE score?

Texas Law Student (must file a Declaration of Intent to Study Law first)

                  $150  Application Fee

                     95  UBE Transfer Fee

                     55  Investigation Fee

                  $300  Total

 

Out-of-State Law Student

                $150  Application Fee

                   40  Fingerprint Card Processing Fee

                  150  UBE Transfer Fee

                  150  Investigation Fee

                $490  Total

 

Attorney with JD from ABA-approved Law School, and

Attorney Applying Under Rule 13 §3

                $700  Application Fee

                   40  Fingerprint Card Processing Fee

                  150  UBE Transfer Fee

                  150  Investigation Fee

              $1040  Total              

 

Foreign-Trained Attorney

           $700 Application Fee

               40  Fingerprint Card Processing Fee

             150  UBE Transfer Fee

             150  Investigation Fee

             100  Foreign Nation Inquiry Fee

         $1140  Total

 

Re-Application for Admission By UBE Transfer

           $225  Application Fee & Investigation Fee

               75  UBE Transfer Fee

           $320 Total

 

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I took an October 2020 exam in a UBE jurisdiction. Can I transfer that score to Texas?

On August 24, the Board approved a proposal to accept a score of 270 or higher earned on the October 5-6, 2020 remote bar examination administered by the following Uniform Bar Examination jurisdictions as satisfaction of the UBE score requirement for admission under Rule 13 §1: the District of Columbia, Connecticut, Illinois, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Tennessee, and Vermont. 

  • Applicants must complete and submit a UBE Transfer application to our office.
  • Applicants transferring a score from Connecticut, Kentucky, Maryland, New York, or Tennessee, your jurisdiction has likely already provided your score to us. You do not need to request that your score be transferred again from these jurisdictions. If we have not received your score, your licensure analyst will notify you via your ATLAS account.
  • Applicants transferring a score from District of Columbia, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Ohio, Oregon, or Vermont, your jurisdiction send scores to us upon your request. The score must be sent to us directly from the jurisdiction. The jurisdiction can email information@ble.texas.gov. The jurisdiction's certification of your October 2020 remote exam must include your full name, NCBE number, and scaled score.
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I sat for the UBE in Texas. How do I transfer my UBE score to another jurisdiction?

In order to transfer the UBE score you earned in Texas to another jurisdiction, you must submit a request to NCBE - UBE Score Services (https://www.ncbex.org/score-services/ube-score-services).

The minimum passing UBE scores by jurisdiction can be found here:  https://www.ncbex.org/exams/ube/ube-minimum-scores

The maximum age of transferred UBE scores by jurisdiction can be found here: https://www.ncbex.org/exams/ube/ube-maximum-score-age

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Admission Without Examination (AWOX)


How do I apply for Admission Without Examination (AWOX)?

You may qualify for admission to the Texas bar without taking the Texas bar exam or transferring a UBE score if:

  • You are currently authorized to practice law in a US state; and
  • You satisfy the educational requirements for admission to the Texas Bar (see Rule 2); and
  • You have been actively and substantially engaged in the lawful practice of law as your primary business or occupation for at least 5 of the last 7 years.

To submit an AWOX application, see How do I submit an application in ATLAS?

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Do you have a checklist to help tell me what documents are required for my application?

Yes: checklists section of our FAQs.

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What activities count as being actively and substantially engaged in the lawful practice of law?

See our FAQs for Practice Time Requirements.

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What documentation is required to substantiate my active and substantial practice of law for Rule 13 admission?

See our FAQs for Practice Time Requirements.

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I am applying for AWOX. Do I need to file my application according to the deadlines provided in Rule 9?

No. There are no filing deadlines for AWOX applications, so you  may sumbit your AWOX application at any time. But submitting an AWOX application around January 30 or October 30 may result in a slower processing time--we receive a large number of bar exam applications around these two days. 

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I am a self-employed attorney. The Employment History section asks for a verifying reference. Who is an acceptable self-employment reference?

Examples of acceptable references include your accountant, your landlord if you have office space, an attorney with whom you work closely, or a judge.  Do not list yourself, a relative, or anyone else with a vested interest in the licensure determination.

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How long does the AWOX process take?

Generally, it takes approximately 6 to 9 months from the date your application is received in our office to complete the process; however, it could take more or less time depending on the particular application. It is helpful for you to provide all required documentation when you submit your application and to ensure that your employment references will respond promptly to any written inquiries from the Board, which will be sent after we begin processing your application. 

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I am employed as an attorney in Texas, but I am not licensed to practice law in Texas. Can my employment be counted toward the AWOX practice time requirement?

Please refer to the Policy Statement on Practice Requirements for Rule 13, which you can view here:  Ancillary Forms & Information.  We cannot provide advisory opinions without a properly-filed application. 

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I no longer have a copy of 1 or more years of my tax returns that are required to be submitted with my AWOX application, how can I obtain a copy of my return/s?

You can request transcripts of previous returns from the IRS using the 4506-T form.  Be sure to request return transcripts.  Copies are generally available for the current and past six years.  You may also be able to obtain tax documentation from your employer(s) or your accountant.

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How do I provide proof of my scaled score of 85 or higher on the MPRE?

If you took the MPRE after 1998, you will contact the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) and request that an official score report be sent directly to our office. Be sure to select “Texas” when completing your score report request.

If you took the MPRE in 1998 or earlier and the NCBE is unable to provide an official score report, submit a request to the jurisdiction where you are licensed to practice law for a letter, on their letterhead, containing the date you took the MPRE and the scaled score you received.  This letter must be sent directly to our office from that jurisdiction.  If you are unable to obtain such information, contact your Licensure Analyst. It is possible that you will have to retake the MPRE. 

If you were licensed without being required to take the MPRE, see Waiver Requests-Guidelines and Instructions.

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How do I provide proof of my J.D. degree?

Complete the top portion of a JD Certification Form, and send it to your law school. Your law school should complete the rest of the form and send it directly to us. The JD Certification Form automatically loads to your ATLAS home page after you submit an AWOX application.  You can also find a blank form at Ancillary Forms & Information.

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I previously failed the Texas Bar Examination, but have since been licensed in another jurisdiction. Can I apply for AWOX?

Yes. As of December 1, 2019, failing a Texas Bar Exam is no longer a barrier to being eligible for Admission Without Examination.

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My employer does not have an official job description. What documentation should I provide in lieu of this?

You may submit a letter, on official letterhead and signed by a managing partner or the head of HR/personnel, detailing your job duties and dates of employment. 

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Can I submit an AWOX application before I have satisfied the 5-year practice requirement?

Do not file an application for AWOX until you have been licensed and actively and substantially practicing as an attorney for at least 5 years.  Please note that under Rule 13, we  look back 7 years from the date we receive your application. For example, if we receive your application on January 1, 2014, your eligibility window would be from January 1, 2007, to January 1, 2014--you woud have to establish 5 years of practice during that 7-year window.  By Rule, we cannot consider employment that takes place after you submit your application.

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I am unsure whether I qualify for AWOX. Can I call and ask whether I am eligible to file?

The Board cannot provide advisory opinions as to a potential applicant’s eligibility without a properly-filed application.  Therefore, it is to your advantage to ensure that you have thoroughly read  Rule 13 and obtained all required documentation before filing an application.

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ATLAS


What is ATLAS?

ATLAS is the Board of Law Examiners’ new website and portal. ATLAS allows applicants to submit applications on-line, pay fees on-line, upload required documents, amend applications on-line, and update personal and contact information on-line.

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How do I create an ATLAS account?

Go here: Create an ATLAS account.

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How do I submit an application in ATLAS?
  1. Create an ATLAS account, if you have not already done so.
  2. Log in to your ATLAS account and go to your ATLAS User Home page.
  3. Click the green Start New Application button.
  4. Find the appropriate application and click the Apply button.
  5. Carefully and correctly answer the registration questions so that you will be directed to the correct application. If the Current Application that appears at the top of your ATLAS User Home page is not the name of the application you are trying to complete, click the Remove Application button, and start the application process again at step 3 above, making sure to answer the registration questions carefully and correctly so ATLAS directs you to the application you are trying to complete.
  6. Read the Instructions.
  7. Review the filing deadlines.
  8. Complete the application.
  9. Use the Upload Required Documents feature to upload required documents.
  10. Once you have read the Instructions, completed the application, and uploaded the initial required documents, a green Submit Application button will appear. Click it and follow the prompts to submit your application and fees.
  11. Once you have submitted your application and fees, you will receive a confirmation message in the System Messages section of your ATLAS User Home page.
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How do I upload documents to my ATLAS account?

To upload new documents:

  1. Log in to your ATLAS account.
  2. Under “Upload Required Documents,” click "Upload Documents.”
  3. If the document you need to upload is already listed, click the blue “Upload” button next to that document. If the document you need to upload is not already listed, click the blue “Upload” button next to "Other Documents."
  4. Select the correct title for your document from the dropdown options.
  5. Enter a description for your documents.
  6. Click "Choose File." Choose the file you want to upload.
  7. Click "Upload Document."

Please note that once you upload a document:

  • Your Analyst is automatically alerted
  • Your item is automatically stamped with the date and time of submission
  • Your Analyst needs some time to review the item before we can mark it as completed or otherwise respond
  • You can view all the items you have uploaded in the "Uploaded Documents" box on your ATLAS User Home page
  • Please do not upload the same document multiple times. We will notify you via your ATLAS account if there is anything we need from you after we review the document.
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Electronic Communications

It is important that you check this website and your ATLAS account on a regular basis to review our latest postings. We will correspond with you primarily through your ATLAS account, but we may also correspond with you by email and through the U.S. postal service. You must keep your email address and mailing address updated in your ATLAS account.

You are deemed by the Board to have received and read:

  • email we send to the email address you have provided in your ATLAS account
  • messages we post in your ATLAS account
  • mail we send to you at the mailing address you have provided in your ATLAS account.

TIP: Add @ble.texas.gov and noreply@ble.texas.gov to your contacts or address book to ensure that your internet provider does not filter out emails we send you. 

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Meeting Deadlines

An application is considered timely filed if we receive the following on or before 11:59 p.m. Central Time on the filing deadline date:

(1) A substantially completed application

(2) A certification or verification

(3) An authorization and release

(4) All required fees (or a request to waive those fees due to indigency)

Materials Transmitted through ATLAS. An application or other materials transmitted through ATLAS are received at the time of transmission (as recorded by ATLAS), even if the transmission does not occur during business hours. For example, an item transmitted through ATLAS on Sunday, November 1 at 11:59 p.m. Central Time is received on Sunday, November 1.

Materials Transmitted through the U.S. Postal Service. Materials mailed through the U.S. Postal Service are received on the postmark date. If materials have no legible postmark, then they are received on the date that they are actually delivered to staff at the Board’s office during business hours.

Materials Delivered by Private Courier or In Person. Materials sent by private courier (FedEx, UPS, etc.) or in person are received on the date that they are actually delivered to staff at the Board’s office during business hours.

Deadlines are strictly enforced.

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How do I update my Personal Info in ATLAS?

Update your personal information (i.e. name, social security number, date of birth, place of birth, or NCBE number) by messaging your licensure analyst through your ATLAS account.

Update your mailing address or telephone number by following these steps:

  1. Login to your ATLAS account.
  2. Click the Personal Info link in the tool bar near the upper right corner of the page.
  3. Edit your personal information as needed.
  4. Click the Update button at the bottom of the page.

Update your email address or ATLAS password by following these steps:

  1. Login to your ATLAS account.
  2. Click the Personal Info tab in the tool bar near the upper right corner of the page.
  3. Click the phrase "Click here to update your login information."
  4. Follow the prompts to update your email address or password.
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How do I amend an application after I have submitted it?

To amend your application:

  1. Log in to your ATLAS account.
  2. Click the blue Amend Application button. 
  3. Scroll to Forms & Progress. 
  4. Click the blue Amend button next to your application.
  5. Select the section that requires amendment from the dropdown options.
  6. Select the question that requires amendment.
  7. Make the required changes.
  8. Click the blue Save button. If you are done amending, click the blue Save & Close button.
  9. Click the green Submit Amendment button. 

If you need to amend a previously submitted Application/Declaration, click the View Your Application History button to find the appropriate application and follow the steps above to submit the amendment.

The amendment will be transmitted to our office and we will receive a notification, so you do NOT need to send a message or otherwise contact us to tell us that it has been amended. Note that there may be a delay between your amendment and our review of your amendment. We will notify you if we require your action or attention after we review the amendment. If you have any issues amending your application, click the yellow Technical Support Request button in the bottom left corner of your ATLAS account.

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Do I have to use ATLAS?

If you want to submit a Declaration of Intention, apply for admission to the Texas Bar, register as a foreign legal consultant, or submit any other application, registration, or renewal to us, you must first create an ATLAS account. 

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Checklists


Do you have a checklist to help tell me what documents are required for my declaration or application?

Yes. Please select the appropriate checklist for the document you are filing with us from the list below. The appropriate checklist will also appear in the FORMS & PROGRESS section of your ATLAS User Home page once you have submitted your Declaration / Application with us.

 

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Declaration and Bar Exam Applications


What types of applications require an uploaded photo?

Only bar exam applications require a photo.

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What are the requirements for an uploaded photo?

Your photo must meet the following requirements:

  • Taken within the past 6 months to reflect your current appearance.
  • Color photo.
  • Individual photo taken in front of a plain white background.
  • Full face view, directly facing the camera, with a neutral expression and both eyes open.
  • Have uniform lighting. Photo must not show shadows or shadowing of facial features.
  • Photo should only include your shoulders and head.
  • No hat or head covering unless worn for religious purposes.
  • Glasses are permitted; however, glare in the photo is not acceptable (glare can be avoided with a slight downward tilt of the glasses or by turning off the flash).
  • 300 x 300 once uploaded and cropped.
  • Photo file type must be a .png, .jpg., or .jpeg

Image result for front head silhouette

 

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What are the filing deadlines for the Declaration of Intent to Study Law? (Texas JD students only.)

First-semester JD students at Texas law schools ("entrants") must file a Declaration of Intention to Study Law according to the deadlines set out in Rule 6(b):

  1. Fall entrants, October 1 of their first semester
  2. Regular spring entrants, May 1 of their first semester
  3. Spring entrants at quarter-hour law schools such as Baylor, June 1 of their first semester
  4. Summer entrants, September 15 of their first semester
  5. Entrants transferred from out-of-state schools, within 60 days of matriculation at a Texas law school.

Failure to do so will result in a late fee as set out in the Appendix Fee Schedule. Late filing Declarants may file at any time prior to or concurrent with the filing of their In-State Application.

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I've missed the final filing deadline to apply for the Texas Bar Exam. Can I still take the exam?

Per Rule 9, the Board will not accept a bar exam application after the final filing deadline "for any reason."

In the absence of extraordinary circumstances, this deadline will not be waived. 

Past examples of extraordinary circumstances include:

  • being deployed in a desert with no internet for weeks longer than expected.
  • being unexpectedly hospitalized for several days before the deadline.

The following do not rise to the level of extraordinary circumstances:

  • only missing the deadline by a minute, an hour, a day, etc.
  • experiencing technical difficulties on the day of the deadline.
  • hardships that may result from not being able to sit for the bar exam.

You may still have time to apply for the UBE in another jurisdiction—refer to this chart for deadlines in other UBE jurisdictions: https://reports.ncbex.org/comp-guide/charts/chart-7/. Other than pointing you to this chart, we cannot offer any information or guidance on how to apply for an exam in another jurisdiction. (For information on how to transfer a UBE score from another jurisdiction to Texas, see UBE - Admission by UBE Transfer (UBET).)

If you believe that you can document extraordinary circumstances for why the final filing deadline should not be honored in your case, you may email your explanation and documentation to information@ble.texas.gov.

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If I am a Texas law student, do I have to file my Declaration before I file my In-State Application? (Texas law students only.)

If you miss the timely filing deadline, which occurs during your first year of law school, you may file your Declaration separately anytime thereafter, or you may wait and file your Declaration concurrently with your In-State Application.  Please note that a late filing fee applies in either case.

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I am completing an In-State Law Student Application. Do I have to list information that was previously provided in the Employment or Character & Fitness sections on my Declaration? (Texas law students only.)

No.  The In-State Application is meant to update the Board with any new/additional information that occurs after you file your Declaration (employment, criminal history, school discipline, etc.).  If you are filing your Declaration and In-State Application concurrently, you do not need to re-list all employment and character and fitness information (that you listed on your Declaration) on your In-State Application.  You do not need to make duplicative disclosures. 

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Do you have a checklist to help tell me what documents are required for my application?

Yes: checklists section of our FAQs.

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What documentation is accepted as proof of my citizenship status, USCIS status, or other compliance with Rule 2(a)(5)?

See Rule 2(a)(5).

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How do I obtain a certified birth certificate?

If you were born in Texas, you can contact the Bureau of Vital Statistics. If you were born in another U.S. state, you may contact the Bureau of Vital Statistics in the state where you were born. Certified birth cerificates may also be obtained on-line through www.vitalchek.com.

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May I use law professors as a reference in the Attorney References section of my Declaration?

Yes.

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How do I provide proof of my ABA-Approved J.D. degree?

You must submit the Certification of Juris Doctorate Degree form to your law school.  This form automatically loads to the User Home page of your ATLAS account.  You can also print a blank form from the Ancillary Forms tab.  Complete the top portion of the form and forward it to your law school for completion. The dean/registrar will complete the remainder of the form and send it directly to our office. 

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The instructions state that a signed copy of my law school application is required. What does this mean?

It depends on the method by which you submitted your law school application.  If you submitted your application via LSAC, you may simply print a copy from the LSAC website.  The fact that it was submitted electronically through LSAC is sufficient for the “signature”.  If you submitted your application by mail, you would need to provide a copy of the signed application that you submitted to your law school.  Contact the registrar’s office if you did not retain a copy for your records.  If you submitted any addendums with your law school application explaining and criminal history or undergraduate discipline you received, make sure you also submit these addendums to the Board.

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How do I respond on the employment history section of Board forms if:

a. an employer is no longer in business?

You should enter "No longer in business" on the line for "Name of Supervisor", instead of entering the name of your supervisor.

b. my immediate supervisor is no longer employed by an employer?

You have a choice. Either enter the name of another supervisor who is still employed by the employer who would be able to respond to an inquiry from the staff of the Board as to your honesty, etc; or, enter the current address for your former supervisor, wherever that person is now.

c. I cannot locate any documentation that indicates the exact dates that I was employed?

Enter approximate dates, but indicate that they are approximate.

d. I was employed in a non-paid, intern-type position?

The staff of the Board will elicit responses as to your honesty, etc., so the fact that you were not paid is not important. You should list such employment situations.

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Do offenses that are the subject to orders of non-disclosure need to be revealed?

Pursuant to Tex. Gov't Code §552.142(b), if you have criminal matters that are the subject of an order of non-disclosure, you are not required to reveal those criminal matters on the Declaration/Application form. However, a criminal matter that is the subject of an order of non-disclosure may become a character and fitness issue. Pursuant to other sections of the Government Code [411.081(d), 411.081(i)(5), 411.083(b), 411.084(a), 411.087(a), and 411.100], the Texas Board of Law Examiners is entitled to access criminal history record information that is the subject of an order of non-disclosure. So, if we discover a criminal matter that is the subject of an order of non-disclosure, even if you properly did not reveal that matter, we may ask you to provide information about that criminal matter.

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Do expunged or sealed offenses need to be revealed?

Matters expunged pursuant to Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Art. 55.02, or pursuant to another state’s statute with the same force and effect, must not be disclosed.  If you disclose such matters, you will be directed to remove them. It is your responsibility to ensure the offense, arrest, ticket, or citation has, in fact, been expunged or sealed. It is recommended that you obtain a copy of the court order expunging or sealing the record in question to verify that the matter has been expunged or sealed. Failure to reveal an offense, arrest, ticket, or citation that is not in fact expunged or sealed, raises questions related to truthfulness in addition to questions regarding the offense itself.  (Note that orders of non-disclosure pursuant to Tex. Gov't Code §411.081 are not orders of expunction.)

If you disclosed expunged matters on your law school application, you must redact your law school application prior to uploading a copy to your ATLAS account to remove the expunged information. You may redact a pdf of your law school application using Adobe Acrobat Reader DC, or you may redact a physical copy of the law school application with a black marker. 

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I’m completing Criminal History or Civil Litigation questions. What is a "cause number"? What does "style" mean?

The cause number is the number under which a case is filed (i.e., 2009-TR-21221). The style is the name of the case (i.e., State of Texas vs. John Doe).  If you do not know this information, please write “unknown”.

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How do I obtain court records or arrest/offense/incident reports for criminal history disclosure?

You are required to provide legible copies of the arrest/offense/incident report as well as all court records for any criminal matter that occurred within 5 years of the date you complete your Declaration or Application.  Submit a signed written request to the appropriate court of record and arresting agency (i.e., police department or sheriff’s office) and upload a copy of each request to your ATLAS account.  This will serve as proof that you are making a good faith effort to obtain the required documentation. Upload the records to your ATLAS account when you receive them. 

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I received a letter from my Licensure Analyst instructing me to update my law school application and to provide a copy of the school’s disposition to my update. How do I comply with this by the deadline given by my Analyst?

You must submit a letter to your law school updating your application with the new information (for example, a criminal offense that occurred after you submitted your application to law school).  You must include a copy of the letter from your Licensure Analyst when you submit your update letter to your law school.  Upload a copy of your update letter, as well as a cover letter explaining why you did not timely update your law school with this information, to your ATLAS account by the due date on the letter from your Licensure Analyst.  Your law school will eventually issue a disposition (response) as a result of your update.  Upload this as soon as you receive it.  We must receive something in writing from your law school even if only to confirm that no action will be taken.  The due date does not apply to the disposition; this can be submitted at a later date. 

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The 30-day grace period to provide outstanding third-party documentation to supplement my application is approaching, but I have not received the requested documentation. Will my application be rejected? Will I owe any additional fees?

Your application will not be rejected and you will not owe any additional fees.  However, you should contact your Licensure Analyst through your ATLAS account and provide an update as to the status of the missing documentation immediately to demonstrate that you are making a good faith effort to comply.

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Does my character and fitness investigation have to be completed before I can sit for the bar exam?

You may sit for the bar exam while your character and fitness investigation is pending, provided you have satisfied the educational requirements in Rule 2.

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Will I be notified when my character and fitness investigation has been completed?

Once we have completed our character and fitness investigation, if we approve your character and fitness, a message will appear in the Application Information box on your ATLAS User Home page: 

If we cannot approve your character and fitness, we will send you an Admission Document in ATLAS with a written explanation of why, and the steps available to you.

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How do I withdraw my bar exam application?

Send a message to your analyst through ATLAS. Please note that fees are not refunded or transferred.

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How do I have my MBE score transferred to another jurisdiction?

Please use the online "Request to Report Texas MBE Score to Another Jurisdiction" form available under the "Applications" tab. Your request must include:

  • your full name,
  • the month and year you took the exam
  • the mailing address of the jurisdiction where you want the score transferred to

There is a $25 fee, which you may pay through the online form.

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Does Texas accept MBE scores transferred from other jurisdictions?

No.  See Rule 11(e) of the Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas.

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Fees


Do you have a quick reference fee chart?

 

 

Application / Declaration Fees


 

 Declaration of Intention to Study Law $190
 Bar Exam: Texas Law Student $300
 Bar Exam: Out of State Law Student $490
 Bar Exam: U.S. Attorneys $1,040
 Bar Exam: Foreign-Trained Applicants $1,140
 Bar Exam: Reapplicants $320

 Bar Exam: Courtesy Seat

 

 $300

 

 UBE Transfer: Texas Law Student $300
 UBE Transfer: Out-of-State Law Student $490
 UBE: U.S.-Trained Attorneys $1,040
 UBE: Foreign-Trained Applicants $1,140
 
 AWOX $890
 
 Foreign Legal Consultant $990
 Foreign Legal Consultant Renewal $150
 
 Military Attorney  $25
 Military Attorney Renewal $25
 Temporary License for Military Spouse $0
 Redetermination of Character & Fitness $190

 

Late Fees

 
 February Exam App. filed by November 1  $150
 February Exam App filed by December 1 $300
 July Exam App. filed by April 1 $150
 July Exam App. filed by May 1 $300

 

Miscellaneous Fees

 
 Laptop Application Fee  $50
 Incomplete Fee $75
 Transfer Texas MBE score to another jurisdiction $25
 Check Return Fee $25

 

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Are the fees detailed in the Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas?

Yes, see Appendix Fee Schedule.

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Fingerprints


How do I make an appointment to have my fingerprints taken electronically?

See  Fingerprint Information.

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Foreign Legal Consultants (FLC)


1. What is a Foreign Legal Consultant?

A Foreign Legal Consultant is a person whom the Supreme Court of Texas has certified to practice in Texas as foreign legal consultant under Rule 14. Someone holding an FLC certificate may practice the law of their home jurisdiction in Texas as allowed by that jurisdiction, partner with and share legal fees with Texas attorneys, and engage in the scope of practice in Texas detailed in Rule 14 §3

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2. Who is eligible to be certified as an FLC in Texas?

The Rules set out two paths to being certified as an FLC in Texas.

Law office. Rule 14 §1(a) applies to those who intend to maintain an office in Texas to practice as an FLC in Texas. The requirements for this path are:

  • Be an attorney in good standing in a foreign country for at least 3 of the 5 years immediately preceding the date of the application (see Rule 14 §(a)(1) for details); and
  • Be at least 26 years old; and
  • Possess the present good moral character and fitness requisite for a member of the Texas Bar.

In-house. Rule 14 §(b) applies to those who wish to practice as an FLC in-house (see Rule 14 §(b)(4) for details). The requirements for this path are:

  • For at least 3 of the 5 years immediately preceding the date of the application:
    • Be authorized to practice law in a foreign jurisdiction; or
    • Be a member in good standing of the bar of another State; or
    • Be actively and substantially engaged in the lawful practice of law in a foreign country or another United States jurisdiction; and
  • Be at least 26 years old; and
  • Possess the present good moral character and fitness requisite for a member of the Texas Bar.
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3. How should FLCs hold themselves out to the public? What titles can they use?

An FLC who holds themself out as an attorney or an FLC without clarifying that they are not licensed in Texas will be presumed to be making a false or misleading communication in violation of TDRPC Rule 7.01.

Rule 14 §3(f). Per Rule 14 §3(f), an FLC cannot in any way hold themself out as a member of the Texas bar.

Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct. FLCs are subject to TDRPC. TDRPC Rule 7.01(a) states:

A lawyer shall not make or sponsor a false or misleading communication about the qualifications or services of a lawyer or law firm. Information about legal services must be truthful and nondeceptive. A communication is false or misleading if it contains a material misrepresentation of fact or law, or omits a fact necessary to make the statement considered as a whole not materially misleading. A statement is misleading if there is a substantial likelihood that it will lead a reasonable person to formulate a specific conclusion about the lawyer or the lawyer’s services for which there is no reasonable factual foundation, or if the statement is substantially likely to create unjustified expectations about the results the lawyer can achieve.

TDRPC Rule 7.01(c) states, in part:

A law firm with an office in more than one jurisdiction may use the same name or other professional designation in each jurisdiction, but identification of the lawyers in an office of the firm shall indicate the jurisdictional limitations on those not licensed to practice in the jurisdiction where the office is located.

Rule 14 §3(g). Per Rule 14 §3(g) an FLC can only use one or more of the following names, titles, or designations in connection with their FLC practice in Texas:

  • The FLC’s own name; and/or
  • The name of the law firm they are affiliated with; and/or
  • The authorized title in the foreign country where they are authorized to practice, which may be used in conjunction with the name of that country; and/or
  • The title “Foreign Legal Consultant,” which may be used in conjunction with the words “authorized to practice law in [name of the foreign country in which they are authorized to practice].”

Examples of designations that comply with these requirements:

Ž  Lee Smith, Foreign Legal Consultant (not licensed in Texas)

Ž  Lee Smith, Foreign Legal Consultant, Authorized to Practice law in Mexico (not licensed in Texas)

Ž  Lee Smith, Attorney in Mexico, Foreign Legal Consultant (not licensed in Texas)

Examples of designations that do not comply with these requirements:

     Lee Smith, affiliated with the Texas Bar as a Foreign Legal Consultant

     Lee Smith, licensed as a Foreign Legal Consultant by the State Bar of Texas

     Lee Smith, Certified Foreign Legal Consultant

     Lee Smith, Texas Foreign Legal Consultant

     Lee Smith, Attorney

     Lee Smith, Partner

     Lee Smith, Attorney and Foreign Legal Consultant

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4. Does the Court “license” FLCs?

The Court certifies Foreign Legal Consultants; it does not “license” them.

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5. Are FLCs members of the State Bar of Texas?

No, FLCs are not members of the State Bar of Texas. Instead, they are considered to be “affiliated with” the State Bar of Texas, subject to the rights and obligations set out in Rule 14 §4 and limited to the scope of practice in §3.

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6. What can an FLC do in Texas? What can they not do?

An FLC may render legal services in Texas in the manner and to the extent permitted by the FLC’s home jurisdiction, subject to the limitations set out in Rule 14 §3.

As clearly set out in Rule 14 §3:

  • An FLC must not appear for another person in any court in Texas, any magistrate in Texas, or any other judicial officer in Texas.
  • An FLC must not prepare certain real estate instruments.
  • An FLC must not prepare certain wills, trusts, and instruments for estate administration.
  • An FLC must not render certain services related to family law.
  • An FLC must not render professional legal advice on the law of Texas, or of the United States (unless licensed in another State) including U.S. immigration law, except under the explicit and narrow circumstances allowed in Rule 14 §3(e)(1)-(2).

An FLC is obligated to be familiar with, understand, and abide by the scope of practice in Rule 14 §3.

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7. Can an FLC practice immigration law or provide immigration services?

Being certified as an FLC does not authorize a person to practice immigration law or provide immigration services.

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8. Can an FLC partner with a Texas lawyer? Can a Texas lawyer share legal fees with an FLC?

Yes. Per Rule 14 §4, an FLC has the right to partner with Texas lawyers, and Texas lawyers and FLCs may share legal fees with each other.

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9. Does an FLC have to have an active law license in another jurisdiction?

Probably. Per Rule 14 §3, an FLC can only practice in Texas “in the manner and to the extent permitted by the jurisdiction in which the person is authorized to practice or, in the case of a person who satisfies the requirements of subparagraph 1(b)(1)(C), to the extent permitted by the jurisdiction in which the person has been actively and substantially engaged in the lawful practice of law.”

Most jurisdictions require a lawyer to maintain an active law license in order to practice law. However, some jurisdictions require attorneys to surrender their license in order to work as in-house counsel or in the judiciary. These attorneys can still qualify to be certified as FLCs in Texas under Rule 14 §1(b)(1)(C).

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10. How do I apply to be certified as an FLC?

Click here for information on how to submit an application through ATLAS, and for answers to other frequently asked questions about ATLAS.

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11. How long does an FLC certificate last?

Unless revoked by the Board under Rule 14 §7, a certification to practice as a Foreign Legal Consultant is valid for one year.

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12. Do FLCs have to complete mandatory continuing legal education (MCLE)?

Per Rule 14 §6(b)(3), in order to renew their certificate, FLCs must complete 3 hours of continuing legal education in ethics courses accredited by the State Bar of Texas. (Because FLCs are not members of the Bar, they are not required to completed the MCLE that members of the Bar must complete per State Bar Rule XII Section 6.)

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13. How do I timely renew my FLC certification, so that there is no gap in my certification?

To timely renew your FLC certificate, complete the required CLE and, at least 60 days before your FLC certification expires, submit a renewal application.

  • Log in to your ATLAS account
  • Upload proof that you completed the required CLE
  • Click the green Start New Application button and find FLC Renewal
  • At least 60 days before your FLC certificate expires, complete the renewal application and use the green Submit Application button to submit it and pay the renewal fee.

(Do not submit a renewal application until after you have completed your CLE. We will not consider your renewal application to be submitted or filed unless it is accompanied by proof that you have completed the required CLE. If you submit a renewal application without first uploading proof that you completed the required CLE, we may reject your application.)

If you submit a complete FLC renewal application during the timely renewal period, then, before your current FLC certificate expires:

  • If staff determines that you are entitled to renew, then staff will renew your certificate; or
  • If staff cannot make a final determination of your eligibility to renew before your current certificate expires, then we will renew your certificate but continue our investigation of your eligibility and present good moral character and fitness. Upon completion of our investigation, we will notify you of our determination. If we determine that you no longer meet the requirements for certification, we will issue you a Preliminary Determination Letter and notice of hearing. If, after notice and hearing, the Board determines that you no longer meet the requirements for certification, the Board may recommend that your FLC certificate be revoked. See Rule 15 §7.
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14. I missed the timely renewal period. Can I still renew?

Maybe. From 59 days before your FLC certificate expires until up to 180 days after your FLC certificate expires, you can, upon a showing of good cause, submit a “grace period” renewal application. You will have to pay a $150 fee and a $150 late fee for total fees of $300.

If you submit a renewal application during the grace period, it is likely that we will not complete our investigation before your current certificate expires. If your current FLC certificate expires before we complete our investigation, there will be a gap in your certification—you would not be certified as an FLC from the date of the expiration of your current FLC certificate until the date of your next certificate. During this gap in certification, you would not be “affiliated with the Bar,” you would not be subject to the rights and obligations set out in Rule 14 §4, and you would not be authorized to engage in the scope of practice detailed in Rule 14 §3.

If you missed the timely renewal period and you want to renew your FLC certificate during the grace period describe above:

  • Log in to your ATLAS account.
  • Upload proof that you completed the required CLE.
  • Click the green Start New Application button and find FLC Renewal.
  • Complete the renewal application and use the green Submit Application button to submit it and pay the renewal fee.
  • After you submit the renewal, we will contact you through ATLAS with instructions on how to offer good cause and pay the late fee.
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15. I missed the timely renewal period, and I also missed the grace period. Can I still renew my FLC certificate?

No. If you do not submit a renewal application within180 days after your certificate expires, you will not be able to renew. Instead, you may submit and pay for an initial application for certification.

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16. Chart of Renewal Periods

Chart of Renewal Periods

 

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17. How can I tell if someone is currently certified as an FLC?

Check here: FLCs in Texas

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18. How do I file a complaint about an FLC?

Start here: FLC Complaint Form

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Foreign-Trained Applicants


Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, some of my LL.M. classes were completed online.

Rule 13 sec. 9 sets out curricular requirements for an LL.M. to qualify certain foreign-trained applicants to sit for the Texas Bar Exam, and Rule 13 sec. 9(a)(9) states that "courses completed online or by other distance-learning programs must not count toward the required minimum 24 semester hours of credit" required by Rule 13 sec. 9.

On May 22, 2020, the Board voted to waive the restriction against counting online LL.M. classes towards the curricular requirements of Rule 13 sec. 9, where the classes were offered online rather than in person because of the COVID-19 pandemic. No formal waiver request is needed--an applicant may simply message their analyst explaining which classes were offered online and why.

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I received my legal education outside of the U.S. or its territories. Can I take the bar exam?

Maybe. You may become eligible to take the Texas Bar Examination through one of four paths:
Pursuant to Rule 13 §4(a), demonstrate that:

  • You completed a course of study at a properly accredited foreign law school
  • The course of study was based on the principles of English common law
  • The course of study was substantially equivalent in duration to the legal education provided by an ABA-approved U.S. law school
  • You are authorized to practice law in a foreign jurisdiction or in another state; and
  • You have been actively and substantially engaged in the lawful practice of law for at least 3 of the 5 years immediately preceding the date of the application. 

Pursuant to Rule 13 §4(b), demonstrate that:

  • You completed a course of study at a properly accredited foreign law school
  • The course of study was based on the principles of English common law
  • The course of study was at least 2 years in duration
  • You have an LL.M. degree that satisfies Rule 13§9

Pursuant to Rule 13 §4(c), demonstrate that:

  • You are authorized to practice law in a foreign jurisdiction whose jurisprudence is based on the principles of English common law
  • You have an LL.M. degree that satisfies Rule 13 §9.

Pursuant to Rule 13 §5, demonstrate that:

  • You completed a course of study at a properly accredited foreign law school
  • The course of study was not based on the principles of English common law
  • The course of study was substantially equivalent in duration to the legal education provided by an ABA-approved U.S. law school
  • You have an LL.M. degree that satisfies Rule 13 §9
  • You are authorized to practice law in a foreign jurisdiction or in another state.
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Summary of Eligibility Requirements for Foreign-Educated Applicants to take the Texas Bar Examination.

Summary
Eligibility Requirements for Foreign-Educated Applicants to take the TBE
Rule 13 of Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas

 

13 §4(a)

13 §4(b)

13 §4(c)

13 §5

Legal Education

Common Law

Common Law

-

Non-Common Law

Duration of Legal Education

Substantially equivalent to ABA-approved law school

At least
2 years

-

Substantially equivalent to ABA-approved law school

Authorized to Practice

Authorized in 
any jurisdiction

-

Authorized in foreign common law jurisdiction

Authorized in 
any jurisdiction

Attorney Experience

3 of last 5 years

-

-

-

LL.M.

-

LL.M. required

LL.M. required

LL.M. required

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I am licensed to practice law in a U.S. state. Can I sit for the bar exam?

Maybe. Simply being licensed in another state is not enough, by itself, to make you eligible to take the bar exam. If you received your initial law degree from a foreign law school, then you can sit for the bar exam if and only if you are eligible under one of the four paths outlined above.

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I am unsure whether I qualify to take the bar exam under Rule 13. Can I call and receive an opinion from Board Staff about my eligibility?

The Board cannot provide advisory opinions on a potential applicant’s eligibility without a properly-filed application. Please note that, in the event that it is determined you do not qualify, no refund of fees will be issued. Therefore, it is to your advantage to ensure that you have thoroughly reviewed Rule 13 and obtained all required documentation before filing an application.

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In addition to passing the bar exam, what other requirements must I meet in order to be eligible to be licensed as a Texas attorney?

In order to be licensed, applicants must do the following within 5 years of passing the bar exam:

  • Be certified by the Board as having present good moral character and fitness
  • Score 85 or higher on the MPRE
  • Be willing to take the Oath
  • Satisfy the requirements of Rule 2(a)(5)
  • Be 18 years of age
  • Complete the Texas Law Course
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Do you have a checklist to help tell me what documents are required for my application?

Yes: checklists section of our FAQs.

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How do I satisfy the requirements of Rule 2(a)(5)?

See Rule 2(a)(5).

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    How do I apply to take the bar exam as a foreign-trained applicant?

    Click here for information on how to submit an application through ATLAS, and for answers to other frequently asked questions about ATLAS.

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    If I am applying pursuant to Rule 13 §4(a), how must I document my active and substantial practice of law?

    See our FAQs for Practice Time Requirements.

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      I received my initial law degree from a foreign law school, and I am licensed to practice law in another U.S. state. If I want to apply for admission to the Texas Bar, what filing fee must I submit with my application?

      If you did not receive an initial law degree from a U.S. law school, then you would only be able to qualify for admission under Rule 13 §4 or Rule 13 §5, even if you are licensed in another U.S. state. If you apply for admission under 13 §4 or Rule 13 §5, then you should submit the following fees with your application (see Appendix D):


      Foreign Nation Attorney–Texas Bar Exam Applicant only:
      $700-Application Fee
      $ 40-Fingerprint Card Processing Fee
      $150-Examination Fee
      $150-Investigation Fee
      $100-Foreign Nation Inquiry Fee 
      $1,140-Total
      (In addition, you should submit the Laptop Application Fee and Late Filing Fee as applicable.)

       

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      I am enrolled in an LL.M. program in a Texas law school. Do I need to file a Declaration of Intention to Study Law?

      No. Only non-attorney applicants who will earn a J.D. from a Texas law school are required to file a Declaration of Intention to Study Law. (Rule 6 only applies to persons who are "beginning" their law study at a Texas school. Generally, LL.M. students are not "beginning" their law studies; instead, they are continuing their law studies.)

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      How do I take the oath if I am not in the United States?

      If you are admitted to practice law in Texas, you must take an oath to support the constitutions of the United States and Texas, honestly demean yourself in the practice of law, and discharge your duty to your clients to the best of your ability. Tex. Gov’t Code §82.037.

      If you are outside the United States, you can appear before one of the following officials, who can administer the oath to you and give a certificate of fact:

      • a minister, commissioner, or charge d’affaires of the United States who resides in and is accredited to the country where the oath or affidavit is made;
      • a consul-general, consul, vice-consul, commercial agent, vice-commercial agent, deputy consul, or consular agent of the United States who resides in the country where the oath or affidavit is made; or
      • a notary public.

      Tex. Gov’t Code §602.004.

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      When is the best time for me to file my application for a particular exam?

      Because our usual investigation and verification of educational and professional credentials can sometimes be delayed when responses from institutions in foreign nations are not forthcoming or when postal service overseas is inefficient, it is prudent for 13 §4 and Rule 13 §5 applicants to file timely. Applicants assume a risk that foreign institutions may not respond to our routine inquiries in sufficient time for eligibility to be determined before the bar exam, and this can result in denial of the application. According to Rule 18(b), refunds or transfers of application fees are not authorized. Therefore, it is advisable to have the application prepared and filed before the timely deadline specified in Rule 9(a)(1) or (2) and to plan for all required documentation to be provided promptly.

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      If an LL.M. degree from an ABA-approved law school is required for my application to sit for the bar exam, can I apply while I am completing my LL.M?

      Yes, but be aware that your law school must certify completion of your LL.M. degree directly to the Board’s office at least 2 weeks before the first day of the exam you apply for.

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      Approximately how long will it be before I find out whether I am eligible to sit for the bar examination?

      We have up to 270 days to complete the character and fitness aspects of our investigation. Other aspects may require longer. It is always prudent for foreign-educated applicants to file their applications timely. Additionally, it is helpful for the applicant to remain in routine contact with the appropriate individuals at their law school, jurisdiction of licensure, and employers listed on their application to help secure timely responses.

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      I am re-applying for the bar exam. Do I have to list information that I provided in the Employment or Character & Fitness sections of my previous application?

      No. Please note the language on the Re-Application that states “since the filing of my last application”. The Re-Application is meant to update the Board with any new information that has occurred since the last time you applied. Do not provide duplicative information.

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      I am re-applying for the bar exam. Do I need to submit another birth certificate or get re-fingerprinted? Is there any third-party documentation that must be resubmitted?

      If you are a licensed attorney, you must submit a current Certificate of Good Standing and statement of discipline (dated within the past 30 days) for each state or foreign jurisdiction where you are admitted.

      Unless specifically instructed by our office, you do not need to provide any the following with your Re-Application: birth certificate, fingerprint cards, MPRE score reports, transcripts.

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      I have an LL.M. from an ABA-approved law school, but it does not satisfy the new curricular requirements set out in Rule 13.

      If you completed your LL.M. before October 1, 2016, then you are exempt from demonstrating that your LL.M. meets the curricular requirements set out in Rule 13 §9.

      If you complete your LL.M. degree on or after October 1, 2016, then you will be required to demonstrate that your LL.M. meets the curricular requirements set out in Rule 13 §9.

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      I am in the process of completing an LL.M. degree at an ABA-approved law school, but it may not satisfy the new curricular requirements set out in Rule 13 §9.

      If you completed your LL.M. before October 1, 2016, then you are exempt from demonstrating that your LL.M. meets the curricular requirements set out in Rule 13 §9. 

      If you complete your LL.M. degree on or after October 1, 2016, then you will be required to demonstrate that your LL.M. meets the curricular requirements set out in Rule  13 §9.

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      Grade Release, Swearing-In, and Licensing


      Do Courtesy Seating applicants appear on the Texas Bar Exam Pass List?

      No. Because courtesy seat examinees have not applied for admission to Texas, we do not include their names on the Texas pass lists (even if they scored a 270 or higher).

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      How do I take the oath if I am not in the United States?

      If you are admitted to practice law in Texas, you must take an oath to support the constitutions of the United States and Texas, honestly demean yourself in the practice of law, and discharge your duty to your clients to the best of your ability. Tex. Gov’t Code §82.037.

      If you are outside the United States, you can appear before one of the following officials, who can administer the oath to you and give a certificate of fact:

      • a minister, commissioner, or charge d’affaires of the United States who resides in and is accredited to the country where the oath or affidavit is made;
      • a consul-general, consul, vice-consul, commercial agent, vice-commercial agent, deputy consul, or consular agent of the United States who resides in the country where the oath or affidavit is made; or
      • a notary public.

      Tex. Gov’t Code §602.004.

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      When are bar exam results released?

      We plan to release February bar exam results in mid-April.

      We plan to release July bar exam results by mid-October. 

      Please do not contact us to ask if we will release results early.

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      When and where is the swearing-in ceremony?

      The State Bar of Texas  plans to hold New Lawyers Induction Ceremony for eligible applicants who pass the July 2023 Texas Bar Exam on October 30, 2023.

      Additional information will be delivered to eligible applicants when the July 2023 Texas Bar Exam results are released in mid-October.

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      Can I take the oath remotely?

      Any person who is authorized to administer oaths—including a judge, retired judge, clerk, or notary public—may swear you in, either before or after you receive your license in the mail. See Tex. Gov’t Code §602.002.

      A person authorized to administer the oath may administer it to you remotely, such as by videoconferencing or teleconferencing, and may attest to the oath electronically by sending you an electronic or scanned image of his or her signature on the oath form. The person administering the oath must also comply with any other applicable requirements; for example, a notary must comply with the requirements for online notarization.  See Tex. Gov’t Code §406.101 et seq.

      A copy of the oath, the elements of which can be found at Texas Government Code §82.037, can be found here: oath or alternative oath. After you complete the oath, attach it to the back of your license. Do not send it to the Bar or the Court.

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      How do I complete the licensing process?

      You cannot practice law in Texas until you complete the licensing process. To complete the licensing process, you must:

      • Satisfy the legal education requirement set out in Rule 2
      • Pass the bar exam (or satisfy an exception in Rule 13)
      • Have your present good moral character and fitness certified by the Board
      • Complete the Texas Law Course
      • Satisfy Rule 2(a)(5)
      • Score 85 or higher on the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination
      • Register with the State Bar of Texas, pay your bar dues, and pay a licensing fee. Visit texasbar.com/NewAttorney to register with the Bar and pay the required fees. If you do not complete this step within 5 years of grade release, your bar exam results will become void, and you cannot be licensed unless you pass the Texas Bar Exam again and meet all other admission requirements in effect at the time that you re-apply.
      • Take the oath. Any person who is authorized to administer oaths—including a judge, retired judge, clerk, or notary public—may swear you in, either before or after you receive your license in the mail. See Tex. Gov’t Code §602.002. A person authorized to administer the oath may administer it to you remotely, such as by videoconferencing or teleconferencing, and may attest to the oath electronically by sending you an electronic or scanned image of his or her signature on the oath form. The person administering the oath must also comply with any other applicable requirements; for example, a notary must comply with the requirements for online notarization.  See Tex. Gov’t Code §406.101 et seq. A copy of the oath, the elements of which can be found at Texas Government Code §82.037, can be found here: oath or alternative oath. After you complete the oath, attach it to the back of your license. Do not send it to the Bar or the Court.

      In addition, please note that by order of the Supreme Court of Texas, all newly licensed attorneys must complete the Justice James A. Baker Guide to Ethics and Professionalism in Texas no later than 12 months after being licensed. For more information, contact the Texas Center for Legal Ethics at info@legalethicstexas.com or 512-427-1477. 

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      If I am lacking a licensing requirement, how do I become licensed once that requirement is met?

      After we receive documentation that you have satisfied the lacking requirement, we will deliver a new and complete licensing packet to you through ATLAS.

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      If I do not pass the exam, how can I re-apply for the next exam?

      Complete and submit a Bar Exam Application through ATLAS. If you do not submit your re-application by 11:59 p.m. on the Special Filing Deadline, you will not be eligible to take the upcoming exam. 

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      Can I get my exam papers re-graded?

      No.  All scores have been automatically checked for mathematical errors and all papers with borderline scores have been re-graded and double-checked for any mathematical errors before grades were released. For this reason, the Board will not grant any requests for re-grading.  No exceptions are made to this policy. Do not call or write the Board requesting a re-grade of your exam papers.  All such requests will be denied, without exception.

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      I did not pass the exam. Can I look at my papers to find out what I did wrong?

      No. However, Rule 11(g) provides for a one-time formal review, which is an individual, oral review of your performance on the exam (excluding the MBE). The review is conducted by a member of the Board of Law Examiners remotely via Zoom, who has reviewed your exam performance on prior administrations.  To qualify for a formal review, you must have failed the Bar Exam more than once and have not previously had a formal review. Regardless of the number of exams taken, you are entitled to only one formal review.

      If you are eligible for a one-time formal review, we must receive your written request for a formal review within 14 days of the date shown on Bar Exam result letter. You must email your request to information@ble.texas.gov. We will notify you of the date and time for your formal review after all requests have been received. No adjustment to any examinee's bar exam scores will be made as a consequence of the formal review. 

      To prepare for the formal review, please read Scoring and Weighting the Bar Exam.

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      What was the pass rate for the most recent exam?

      View the Statistics tab on the Board's Bar Exam page.

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      I passed the exam. Can I have a breakdown of my exam grades?

      No.  Board policy does not provide passing examinees with a breakdown of their grades.  Passing examinees will receive their final “Combined Scaled Score” and their  “Scaled MBE Score” with their result letters. 

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      Can I find out my overall ranking on the bar exam?

      No. There is, however, a long-standing tradition that the examinees with the top three scores will be recognized at the swearing-in ceremony.  Overall rankings are not otherwise produced.

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      How will my name appear on my law license?

      When you create an ATLAS account, you are asked to indicate how you would like your name to appear on your license--this is how your name will appear on your license, assuming that it complies with Rule 17(a). Rule 17(a) provides that a law license "may be issued only in the name shown on a valid, government-issued identification card, except that a given name may be omitted or represented  by an initial if the Applicant so requests in writing."

      So, for example, if your driver's license shows your name as Jean Lee Smith, your name could be displayed on your license as:

            Jean Lee Smith         Jean Smith

            Jean L. Smith            J. Smith

            J. Lee Smith              Lee Smith

            J.L. Smith                  L. Smith

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      What is After the Bar Exam?

      The State Bar of Texas presents AftertheBarExam.com, a free online resource for all Texas Bar examinees, to address the concerns and questions of those facing for the first time the challenges and opportunities of a life in the law.

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      Laptop Testing


      Where can I find information about using my laptop on the Bar Exam?

      Start here: Bar Exam > Current Exam > Laptop Information

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      How can I ask for help with ILG Exam360?

      If you encounter any technical issues with ILG Exam360®:

      • Submit a technical support ticket directly from your ILG Exam360® user account; or
      • Submit a technical support ticket from the "My Account" tab in ILG Exam360® software; or
      • Call 833.ILG.SUPP (833.454.7877).

      Do not contact the Texas Board of Law Examiners for technical support with ILG Exam360®. We will not be able to help.

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      I already downloaded the ILG Exam360 exam software and registered my laptop for a previous bar exam. Do I need to pay for, download, and register again?

      Yes. The ILG Exam360 exam software must be purchased, downloaded, and registered for each exam you apply for.

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      Is there a list of frequently asked questions regarding ILG Exam360?

      Yes: ILG Exam360 frequently asked questions.

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      Will spell-check or cut-and-paste features in ILG Exam360 be enabled for the bar examination?

      Spell check, copy-and-paste, and cut-and-paste will all be enabled for all examinees.

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      Can I use an external keyboard? External mouse? Cooling stand? Extension cord?

      Yes, all these devices are allowed.

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      Military Spouses


      Temporary Licenses for Qualifying Military Spouses

      Effective December 1, 2019, a qualifying military spouse can receive a temporary Texas law license for no fee. Rule 23 provides that a spouse (Military Spouse) of an active-duty military service member who has been ordered stationed in Texas is eligible for a three-year temporary license to practice law in Texas if the Military Spouse:

      • is admitted to practice law in another State;
      • is in good standing in all jurisdictions where admitted and an active member of the bar in at least one State;
      • is not currently subject to discipline or the subject of a pending disciplinary matter in any jurisdiction;
      • has never been disbarred or resigned in lieu of discipline in any jurisdiction;
      • has never had an application for admission to any jurisdiction denied on character or fitness grounds;
      • meets the law study requirements of Rule 3 or is exempted under Rule 13 §§ 3, 4, or 5;
      • has satisfactorily completed the Texas Law Component; and
      • is residing in Texas.

      To apply for a temporary license, the Military Spouse must create an ATLAS account, complete and submit an Application for Military Spouse Temporary License, and provide the required documentation, including a copy of military dependent identification documents, a copy of military orders showing that the spouse has been ordered stationed in Texas, and a certificate of good standing from each jurisdiction where admitted. A sample application can be viewed here: Application Forms / Waivers, Other Forms, and Information.

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      Does Texas have a policy concerning military spouses seeking a regular license?

      First, please note that the Court adopted Rule 23, effective December 1, 2019, allowing qualifying military spouses to receive a temporary Texas law license for no fee. 

      The Board, in consultation with the Supreme Court, has adopted policy guidelines for (a) consideration of problems faced by military spouse applicants seeking a regular license and (b) consideration of their practice time waiver requests. Pursuant to these guidelines:
      • As used in these guidelines, a military spouse applicant means an attorney holding a current active law license in another state who demonstrates that his or her spouse is a person on active duty as a member of the armed forces of the United States, whose duty station is in Texas.
      • The military spouse applicant may file an application for regular admission in Texas at a reduced fee (the fee applicable to an out-of-state law student) without having to demonstrate the indigence required under Rule 18(c) for fee waivers.
      • If applying to take the Texas Bar Examination, no late fee will be incurred for filing within the times provided in Rule 9(a).
      • The military spouse applying for admission without examination (AWOX) should meet all other eligibility criteria for admission, but if lacking only Rule 13 practice time, then the military spouse may submit a written request for waiver of 13 demonstrating good cause for (a) enlarging the seven-year window to encompass law practice beyond seven years, (b) accepting fewer than the minimum five years time in practice, or (c) both.
      • The military spouse’s waiver request shall be submitted through ATLAS at the time of filing the application for admission, or thereafter. In addition to any other factors the military spouse applicant may consider appropriate for the Board to consider, the applicant’s waiver request shall include:
        • A verifiable history of short-term moves that were compulsory for the applicant as an attorney married to an active duty military service member;
        • A detailed description of the unique problems, if any, the applicant faced as a military spouse in undertaking to engage actively and substantially in the lawful practice of law during the relevant time period(s) for which waiver is sought;
        • Documentation demonstrating to the Board’s satisfaction that the applicant is currently the legal spouse of an active duty member of the armed forces whose duty station is in Texas; maintains a current active license to practice law in another state or territory of the United States; is in good standing and has no current or pending discipline in any jurisdiction currently licensed (active or inactive status); is in compliance with Continuing Legal Education, fees and other requirements of licensure in all jurisdictions of active licensure; and has no issues that could result in the Board’s character and fitness director determining that the applicant lacks present good moral character and fitness; and
        • Any letters of support from attorneys with whom applicant has practiced law that the applicant considers appropriate for the Board to consider with respect to the waiver request.
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      I am a military spouse applying to take the Texas Bar Exam. How do I request a reduction of fees?

      First, please note that the Court adopted Rule 23, effective December 1, 2019, allowing qualifying military spouses to receive a temporary Texas law license for no fee.

      If you are a military spouse applying to take the Texas Bar Exam, you may request a reduction of your filing fees from $1,040 (the fee for attorneys) down to $490 (the fee for out-of-state law students).

      1. Create an ATLAS account.
      2. Complete a bar exam application. 
      3. Once you have completed the application, a "request waiver" button will appear. Click on it, and complete the questions to request a reduction or waiver of fees.
      4. To receive a reduction of the fee to $490, you do not need to establish indigence, and you do not need to provide any information about your income.
      5. You do need to establish that you are currently the legal spouse of an active duty member of the armed forces of the United States who is stationed in Texas. To establish this, you will need to upload:
      • A copy of military dependent identification documents
      • Documentary evidence that the service member’s duty station is in Texas in compliance with military orders,
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      I am a military spouse applying for admission without examination, but I have less than 5 years of practice time. Can I request a waiver of the 5-year practice requirement?

      First, please note that the Court adopted Rule 23, effective December 1, 2019, allowing qualifying military spouses to receive a temporary Texas law license without documenting any practice time requirement.

       

      If you are military spouse seeking admission under Rule 13 section  2, you may submit a request for waiver of the 5-year practice requirement in Rule 13 sec. 2 by demonstrating good cause for (a) enlarging the seven-year window to encompass law practice beyond seven years, (b) accepting fewer than the minimum five years time in practice, or (c) both.

      1. Create an ATLAS account.
      2. Complete an AWOX application. 
      3. Once you have completed the application, a "request waiver" button will appear. Click on it, and complete the waiver request.
      4. Be sure to upload:
      • A copy of military dependent identification documents.
      • Documentary evidence that the service member’s duty station is in Texas in compliance with military orders,
      • A statement addressing a verifiable history of short-term moves that were compulsory for the applicant as an attorney married to an active duty military service member;
      • A detailed description of the unique problems, if any, the applicant faced as a military spouse in undertaking to engage actively and substantially in the lawful practice of law during the relevant time period(s) for which waiver is sought;
      • Any letters of support from attorneys with whom applicant has practiced law that the applicant considers appropriate for the Board to consider with respect to the waiver request.
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      Do you have a checklist to help tell me what documents are required for my application?

      Yes: checklists section of our FAQs.

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      MPRE


      Does Texas require the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE)?

      Yes. You cannot be licensed to practice law in Texas until you have passed the MPRE with a scaled score of 85 or higher. See Rule 5. The MPRE is administered by the NCBE.

      If you were licensed without being required to take the MPRE, see Waiver Requests-Guidelines and Instructions.

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      How do I provide Texas with proof of my scaled score of 85 or higher on the MPRE?
      • If you took the MPRE after 1998, you will contact the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) and request that an official score report be sent directly to our office. Be sure to select “Texas” when completing your score report request.
      • If you took the MPRE in 1998 or earlier and the NCBE is unable to provide an official score report, submit a request to the jurisdiction where you are licensed to practice law for a letter, on their letterhead, containing the date you took the MPRE and the scaled score you received.  This letter must be sent directly to our office from that jurisdiction.  If you are unable to obtain such information, contact your Licensure Analyst. It is possible that you will have to retake the MPRE. 
      If you were licensed without being required to take the MPRE, see Waiver Requests-Guidelines and Instructions.

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      I am a Texas licensed attorney whose MPRE score cannot be provided by the NCBE because it is over 15 years old, and I need my MPRE score transferred to another jurisdiction.

      Submit a signed, written request to our office with as much of the following information as possible:  your name at the time you applied for the Texas Bar Examination, the date (month/year) you took the MPRE, and a second identifier (date of birth, SSN).  Please also include the current mailing address where you want us to mail your MPRE score.  Please be advised that, due to our records retention policy, depending on the date you sat for the MPRE, as well as the method you selected to have your score reported to Texas, we may not be able to provide your score information. 

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      How can I get a copy of my MPRE score?
      • To request MPRE scores from before 1999 that were submitted to us, please send a signed, written request outlining the requested material(s), including the applicant's name at time of exam, birthdate, last four digits of the applciant's social security number, approximate month/date of exam, and the physical address where you’d like us to mail the information. You may submit the signed request by mail, fax, or email.  See Contact Us for addresses and numbers. 
      • Requests for MPRE scores for exams taken in 1999 or later must be submitted directly to the National Conference on Bar Examiners.  Additional information is available at http://www.ncbex.org/ncbe-exam-score-services/mpre-score-services/
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      Non-Resident Attorney Fee (Pro Hac Vice)


      How do I submit a non-resident attorney fee?
      • Go to the Application Forms tab on our website and complete a Non-Resident Attorney Fee Submission Form.
      • Submit the form on-line, and submit payment on-line by credit card or electronic check.
      • We will process your Submission Form by the end of our next business day.

      Please note that in addition to Texas state holidays, our office is usually closed for business the entire week of the February bar exam and the entire week of the July bar exam. See Current Exam for exact bar exam dates.

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      What will I receive from the Board of Law Examiners after I submit my Non-Resident Attorney Fee Submission Form?

      After processing your completed Submission Form, we will issue an Acknowledgement Letter stating the non-resident attorney name, the cause number, and the Texas court or body in which the proceeding is pending. The Acknowledgment Letter will serve as proof of payment of the non-resident attorney fee. We will deliver the Acknowledgment Letter by fax, mail, or email, as instructed in the Submission Form. Once we deliver the Acknowledgment Letter, we cannot alter its contents, and we cannot refund or transfer the fee for any reason.

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      When will I receive my Acknowledgment Letter?

      We will issue the Acknowledgment Letter by the end of our next business day.
      For example:

      • If you pay online on Monday, then we will issue the Acknowledgment Letter by Tuesday at 5 p.m.
      • If you pay online on Friday afternoon, then we will issue the Acknowledgment Letter by Monday at 5 p.m. (If Monday is a holiday, then we will issue the Acknowledgment letter by Tuesday at 5 p.m.)
      • If you pay online during the week of a Bar Exam, we may not issue the Acknowledgment Letter until 5 p.m. on the Tuesday after the Exam.
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      TROUBLE SHOOTING
      • The submission form works best in Internet Explorer. If you use Google Chrome and encounter problems, please try again with Internet Explorer.
      • If you cannot find your acknowledgment letter, please check your Junk or Spam folder.
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      Can I fax in a Submission Form?

      No. The only way to submit the fee is to complete a Submission Form on-line and pay by credit card or electronic check.

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      After I pay the non-resident attorney fee, what else must I do in order to participate in the proceedings of a cause in a Texas court?

      After satisfying the fee requirement, a non-resident attorney then must file a motion with the applicable Texas court or body. The motion must be accompanied by our Acknowledgment Letter, as well as a motion from a resident practicing Texas attorney. See Rule 19 of the Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas for information on the required form and content of these motions.

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      Who decides a non-resident attorney’s motion for permission to participate in a Texas proceeding?

      The Texas court or body in which the motion is filed decides the motion. The court may deny the motion if the court determines that the non-resident attorney is not a reputable attorney who will observe the ethical standards required of Texas attorneys, that the non-resident attorney has been appearing in courts in Texas on a frequent basis, that the non-resident attorney has been engaging in the unauthorized practice of law in the state of Texas, or that other good cause exists.

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      Does a non-resident attorney have to pay the non-resident attorney fee and comply with Rule 19 in order to seek permission to participate in the following:

      a. A proceeding of a cause in a court with limited jurisdiction, such as a justice court?

      Yes.  Rule 19 applies to the proceedings of a cause in any Texas state court. The rule does not apply to cases in federal courts located in Texas.

      b. An administrative proceeding?

      Rule 19 has been applied to proceedings in matters before Texas state agencies whose rules contemplate appearances by counsel.

      c. A deposition, arbitration, mediation, or other pre-trial proceeding?

      If a suit is on file in a Texas court, any participation by a non-resident attorney in the proceedings in that suit on behalf of a client, including arbitration and mediation, is subject to the fee requirement, even if the proceeding or deposition occurs outside of a courtroom.

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      Is another fee required if a case is appealed to an appellate court?

      Yes. The appellate case is considered a new proceeding.

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      Do non-resident attorneys have to satisfy the fee if they are employed by government agencies or nonprofit entities?

      Yes.

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      Can the fee be waived?

      Yes. The Supreme Court of Texas may waive or lower the fee for a non-resident attorney representing an indigent person.  For information on how to request a waiver, see Request to Waive or Reduce a Non-Resident Attorney Fee

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      Will the fee be refunded if the case is dismissed or settles, another attorney substitutes in, or the court denies a motion to participate in the proceeding?

      No. Once we deliver the Acknowledgment Letter, we cannot alter its contents, and we cannot refund or transfer the fee for any reason.

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      Can a non-resident attorney pay one fee to cover multiple cases?

      No.  A non-resident attorney must satisfy the fee requirement for each case in which the attorney is seeking to participate.  See Tex. Gov't Code §82.0361(b).

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      Can a single fee cover multiple non-resident attorneys who work for the same law firm and seek to participate in the same case?

      No.  Texas Government Code Sec. 82.0361(b) refers to an individual attorney.

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      Can one payment be submitted to cover more than one fee?

      No. You must submit a separate Submission Form with payment for each non-resident attorney fee.

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      How does the Board apply the non-resident attorney fees?

      All non-resident attorney fees are deposited in a judicial fund for programs approved by the Supreme Court that provide basic civil legal services to the indigent.

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      Do I have to be associated with a Texas attorney?

      Yes. A non-resident attorney seeking permission to participate in proceedings of a particular cause must be associated with a resident practicing Texas attorney. See Rule 19(a)(2) and 19(b) of the Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas.

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      Should a motion to the Court be filed simultaneously with the application to the Board?

      No. Satisfying the fee requirement is a mandatory first step. The Board will process the application and send an Acknowledgement Letter for the specific case listed on the application.  The Acknowledgment Letter must accompany a written motion and will inform the Court that you have satisfied the non-resident attorney fee requirement.

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      Is expedited processing available?

      No.

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      Practice Time Requirements


      Determining What Counts as the Active, Substantial, and Lawful Practice of Law

      Rule 1(a)(12) describes the practice of law to include:

      1. private practice as a sole practitioner or for a law firm, legal services office, legal clinic, public agency, or similar entity;
      2. practice as an attorney for an individual or for a corporation, partnership, trust, or other entity with the primary duties of furnishing legal counsel and advice; drafting and interpreting legal documents and pleadings; interpreting and giving advice regarding the law; or preparing, trying, or presenting cases before courts, departments of government, or administrative agencies;
      3. practice as an attorney for a local government or the state or federal government, with the same primary duties described in the preceding subsection;
      4. employment as a judge, magistrate, referee, or similar official for a local government or the state or federal government, provided that the employment is open only to licensed attorneys;
      5. employment as a full-time teacher of law at an approved law school;
      6. any combination of the preceding categories.

      The Board has adopted a Policy Statement on Practice Requirements for Rule 13, which is available at Application Forms – Ancillary Forms Information -- Other.

      For work as an attorney in (or from within) any jurisdiction without being licensed as an attorney in that jurisdiction, you must provide a written statement, including citation of court rule, statute or binding authority in that jurisdiction, demonstrating to the satisfaction of the Board that the jurisdiction does not regard such activity or practice as unlawful.

      Engaging in the unauthorized or unlawful practice of law could result in a negative character finding by the Board, a referral to the Unauthorized Practice of Law Committee, and could also result in your employing attorney being referred to the State Bar General Counsel for violation of Rule 5.05(b), Texas Disciplinary Rules of Professional Conduct.

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      Documenting the Active, Substantial, and Lawful Practice of Law

      Proof of Income. If you need to document a practice-time requirement under Rule 13( for example: AWOX, attorney with a JD from a non-ABA law school, foreign-trained with no LL.M.), then you must provide proof of income you earned from the practice of law during that practice-time.

      • For income you earned from the practice of law as an employee (Form 1040, Line 8), upload:
        • Form 1040 and all relevant W-2s; or
        • A Wage & Income Transcript (if available).
      • For income you earned from the practice of law through sole proprietorship, single-member LLC, or other small business that reports on Form 1040, Line 12, upload:
        • Form 1040 and Schedule C; or
        • A Wage & Income Transcript (if available).
      • For income you earned from the practice of law through a Partnership, S Corporation, or other entity that reports on Form 1040, Line 17, upload:
        • Form 1040, Schedule E, and all relevant K-1s; or
        • A business return and all relevant K-1s; or
        • A Wage & Income Transcript (if available).
      • For income you earned in another country from the practice of law, upload:
        • A copy of each income tax form and schedules required to be filed by you in that country.

      Wage & Income Transcript. To request a Wage & Income Transcript, submit Form 4506T to the IRS. Under Step 6, you must select Option C – Record of Account. The IRS will only provide transcripts for the current year and returns processed during the prior 3 processing years. If a Wage & Income Transcript is not available for a particular calendar year, you must provide the other documentation set out above.

      No tax returns. For any of the calendar years during which you are claiming employment as an attorney but for which you have not filed a federal income tax return or other form, provide documentation of your total adjusted gross income and the portion of that income attributable to your law practice.

      Authorization to Practice Law. Generally, at all times during the period of practice for which credit is sought, you must have had an active law license under which you have been, lawfully entitled to practice law in the issuing jurisdiction, unless controlling federal or foreign law provides otherwise.

      For each jurisdiction in which you practiced law without holding a valid, active license issued by the jurisdiction in which the practice occurs, you must have the jurisdiction in which the practice occurs to confirm in writing to the Board that it regards such practice as lawful in order for it be considered for purposes of any practice requirement of Rule 13, Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas. Only when it is demonstrated that written confirmation of lawful practice has been sought from the jurisdiction and cannot be obtained, alternate proof of lawfulness can be provided in the form of a verifiable written statement citing court rule, statute or other authority in the jurisdiction, demonstrating to the satisfaction of the Board that the jurisdiction does not regard such activity or practice as unlawful.

      Proof of authorization to practice law may be satisfied by proof that you were lawfully engaged in the practice of law as an in-house counsel in a foreign jurisdiction that requires a person to surrender the person’s license in order to practice in-house.

      Job Descriptions. For each legal employment you have had, you must provide a copy of the official job description from the employer’s personnel records, describing the position you held. If the employer indicates that no official job description exists, have the employer write to the Board, on firm or company letterhead, and provide a detailed description of the work you performed in the position and a statement as to whether the employment was full-time, and if not, providing detailed documentation of the hours you worked providing legal services in this position.

      Military Lawyers. If you are seeking to count practice as a military lawyer, you must submit copies of all officer evaluation performance reports for the period of time you are claiming, in addition to your DD Form 214, as applicable, at the time you file your application.

      Part-Time Practice. Demonstrated practice of at least 30 hours per week is necessary to establish active and substantial practice. If your practice experience includes part-time law practice, or time that may not be counted under the Policy Statement on Practice Requirements for Rule 13, you may be required to establish the actual number of hours per week you rendered legal services for that period of time to count toward the Rule 13 requirements.

      No credit will be given for practice unless the required documentation is provided. You must submit an English translation of any required document that is not written in English.

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      Presentations


      Slide Presentation to First-Year Texas Law Students: Declaration of Intention to Study Law

      Presentation to First-Year Texas Law Students: Declaration of Intention to Study Law

       

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      Recorded Zoom presentation: Applying for the Texas Bar Exam

      Applying for the Texas Bar Exam

       

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      Recorded Zoom presentation: Information for Foreign-Trained Applicants

      Information for Foreign-Trained Applicants

       

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      Reapplications; Special Filing Periods


      I already applied for a Texas bar exam in the past. How to apply for another Texas bar exam?

      1. Log in to your ATLAS account and go to your ATLAS User Home page.

      2. Click the green Start New Application button.

      3. Find the Bar Exam Application and click the Apply button.

      4. Correctly answer the registration questions so that you will be directed to the correct Bar Exam Re-application.

      5. After you have completed the registration questions, read the Instructions for Bar Exam Re-Application.

      6. Complete the Bar Exam Re-application. Note that most questions begin, "Since the filing of your last application..." because we only want updated information.

      7. Use the Upload Required Documents feature to upload required documents, including

      --A new Authorization and Release, dated within the past 30 days. (Do not upload outdated documents that you used for a past application.)

      --A new Handwriting Sample dated within the past 30 days. (Do not upload outdated documents that you used for a past application.)

      8. Do not upload any documents you already uploaded for a past bar exam application, unless your analyst specifically instructs you to do after you submit your Re-application.

      9. Once you have read the Instructions, completed the Re-application, and uploaded the initial required documents, a green Submit Application button will appear. Click it and follow the prompts to submit your Re-application and fees. Deadlines apply.

      For instructions on how to submit a fee waiver request, click here.

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      I am re-applying for admission to the Texas Bar. Do I have to list information that was previously provided in the Employment or Character & Fitness sections of my previous application?

      No.  Please note the language on the Re-Application that states “since the filing of my last application.”  The Re-Application is meant to update the Board with any new information that has occurred since the last time you applied.  Do not provide duplicative information.

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      I am submitting a Reapplication. Do I need to submit another birth certificate or get re-fingerprinted? Is there any third-party documentation that must be resubmitted?

      If you are a licensed attorney, you must submit a current Certificate of Good Standing and statement of discipline (dated within the past 30 days) for each state or foreign jurisdiction where you are admitted with each Re-Application.  Otherwise unless specifically instructed by our office, you do not need to send the following with your Re-Application:  birth certificates, fingerprint cards, MPRE score reports, JD Certification forms.

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      Do you have a checklist to help tell me what documents are required for my application?

      Yes: checklists section of our FAQs.

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      Special filing period

      If you are awaiting results on a Texas Bar Exam, you can reapply for the next exam--if needed--during the special filing period. Each special filing period opens a few days after results are released. No late fees are assessed during the special filing period.

      • If you failed a July Texas Bar Exam, you have until December 1 to reapply for the ensuing February Texas Bar Exam.
      • If you failed a February Texas Bar Exam, you have until June 1 to apply for the ensuing July Texas Bar Exam.

      To re-apply during the special filing period:

      • Wait for the special filing period to open. (The opening date will be included in your bar exam results correspondence.)
      • Log in to your ATLAS account, click the green Start New Application button, select Bar Exam Application, and correctly answer the registration questions which will direct you to a reapplication,.
      • Complete the reapplication, upload required documents, and submit your reapplication and electronic payment by the special filing deadline.
      • You will need to complete a new Authorization and Release, and Handwriting Sample, dated within the past 30 days.
      • Do not re-upload documents that you already submitted for previous applications. You do not need to re-upload any other previously-provided documents unless specifically instructed to do so by your analyst after your application is filed. The re-application begins most questions with "Since the filing of your last application..." because we only want updated information.

      The special filing period is only available to those who failed the last Texas Bar Exam. It is not available to those who withdrew from the last Texas Bar Exam, those who sat for part of but not all of the last Texas Bar Exam, or those who failed a UBE or other bar exam in another state or jurisdiction.

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      Reinstatements and Returns to Status


      I have not resigned or been disbarred, but I am inactive with the State Bar. How do a become active again?

      If you have not been disbarred and have not resigned from the State Bar of Texas, but your status with SBOT is "inactive" and you want to change to "active" status, then you must contact SBOT here: Change from Inactive Status to Active Status. Only SBOT can change your status from inactive to active. The Texas BLE cannot help, and you do not need to submit anything to the Texas BLE. (When communicating with SBOT, make sure SBOT understands that you are simply wanting to move from "inactive" to "active" status. There is sometimes confusion about those who have been disbarred or resigned in lieu of discipline and must apply with the Texas BLE to take the Texas Bar Exam again in order to reinstate their license, and those who are simply inactive with SBOT and want to "reinstate" their active status.)

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      I was disbarred in Texas, but now I have a judgment of reinstatement. How do I apply for the Texas Bar Exam?

      Reinstatement procedures for disbarred Texas attorneys are set out in Texas Rules of Disciplinary Procedure 11.01 et seq. If you were disbarred in Texas and you now have a judgment of reinstatement, you may apply for the Texas Bar Exam as follows:

      • Obtain a certified copy of your judgment of reinstatement. (If you have questions about petitioning for reinstatement, you may call the Office of the Chief Disciplinary Counsel, State Bar of Texas, at (512) 427-1350.)
      • Create an ATLAS account
      • Complete a Bar Exam Application
      • Upload a certified copy of a judgment of reinstatement
      • Upload a photograph
      • Upload a copy of your government-issued photo id
      • Submit the application and pay the fee
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      I was a Texas attorney who resigned in lieu of discipline, but now I have a judgment of reinstatement. How do I apply for the Texas Bar Exam?

      Reinstatement procedures for Texas attorneys who resigned in lieu of discipline are set out in Texas Rules of Disciplinary Procedure 11.01 et seq. If you were a Texas attorney who resigned in lieu of discipline and you now have a judgment of reinstatement, you may apply for the Texas Bar Exam as follows:

      • Obtain a certified copy of your judgment of reinstatement. (If you have questions about petitioning for reinstatement, you may call the Office of the Chief Disciplinary Counsel, State Bar of Texas, at (512) 453-5535.)
      • Create an ATLAS account
      • Complete a Bar Exam Application
      • Upload a certified copy of your judgment of reinstatement
      • Upload a photograph
      • Upload a copy of your government-issued photo id
      • Submit the application and pay the fee
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      I was a Texas attorney who resigned other than in the face of pending disciplinary action. How do I apply for admission to the Texas Bar?

      Texas attorneys who voluntarily resigned other than in face of pending disciplinary action can request a return to status under State Bar Rules Art. III, section 10. They should email information@ble.texas.gov; Subject Line: "Reinstatement - ATTN DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS" for specific instructions.

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        Rule 2(a)(5)


        How do I satisfy the requirements of Rule 2(a)(5)?

        Rule 2(a)(5) requires applicants for admission to the Texas bar to qualify under one of the following categories:

        (A) be a United States citizen;

        (B) be a United States national;

        (C) be an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence;

        (D) be otherwise authorized to work lawfully in the United States, including in a period of Optional Practical Training; or

        (E) be an Applicant who does not reside in the United States when the Application is submitted.

         

        You can sit for the bar exam without first satisfying Rule 2(a)(5), but you must satisfy Rule 2(a)(5) before you can be licensed as a Texas attorney.

         

        To satisfy Rule 2(a)(5):

        (A) If you are a United States citizen or a United States national, upload a color copy of your

        • birth certificate issued by a U.S. city, county, or state; (a certificate issued by a hospital will not be sufficient); or
        • original Consular Report of Birth; or
        • your un-expired U.S. passport data page (showing your photo and identifying / passport information); or
        • your un-expired U.S. passport card.

        (B) If you are a naturalized United States citizen, upload a color copy of:

        • Certificate of Naturalization; or
        • Certificate of Citizenship; or
        • your un-expired U.S. passport data page (showing your photo and identifying / passport information); or
        • your un-expired U.S. passport card.

        (C) If you are an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence, upload a color copy of:

        • the USCIS document evidencing your permanent residency.

        (D) If you are authorized to work lawfully in the United States, upload a color copy of:

        • the USCIS document evidencing your work authorization.

        (E) If you do not reside in the United States at the time of your application,

        Notes:

        • Keep all originals handy--you must mail them to us upon request.
        • Please upload color copies of required documentation.
        • To upload, use the UPLOAD REQUIRED DOCUMENT feature on your ATLAS User Home page. In the Title box, select Rule 2(a)(5) from the dropdown menu. In the Description box, type the appropriate description, such as Birth Certificate or Passport.
        • If you are an American citizen who was born abroad, we will accept a certified copy of a Certification of Birth (DS-1350) or a certified copy of the Consular Report of Birth Abroad (FS-240). Contact the Department of State at http://travel.state.gov for more information.
        • We do not accept hospital birth certificates, photocopies, notarized photocopies, or foreign birth certificates.
        • If you need to order a replacement of your Citizenship or Naturalization documentation, please contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and ask about using Form N-565 to get a replacement document.
        • We have made special arrangements with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services regarding green cards and naturalization certificates. You may make copies of either document and submit the copies with your application or declaration regardless of the statement to the contrary on the document.
        • If you can show good cause, you can request a waiver of a requirement of Rule 2(a)(5).
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        I am attending law school in the United States. However, I am a legal resident of a foreign nation and do not intend to remain in the United States after I receive my law degree and complete the bar examination. Would this preclude me from qualifying under Rule 2(a)(5)(e)?

        An immigration attorney may be able to assist you with this question. We cannot provide legal advice. If you determine that you do not reside in the United States at the time you submit your application and that you thus satisfy the requirements of Rule 2(a)(5)(e), you should complete and upload a Statement of Residence Outside the U.S. 

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        Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas


        Where can I find the current Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas?

        You can find the current Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas on the Rulebook page of our website.

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        Where can I find previous versions of the Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas?

        Previous Rulebooks page of our website

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        Supervised Practice of Law by Qualified Law Students and Qualified Unlicensed Law School Graduates in Texas


        How do I get a Supervised Practice card?

        For information on the Supervised Practice of Law by Qualified Law Students and Qualified Unlicensed Law School Graduates in Texas, please visit the State Bar of Texas.

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        Texas Law Component


        What is the Texas Law Component?

        The Texas Law Component is a licensing requirement established by Rule 2(a)(8) and Rule 5. It is satisfied by completing the Texas Law Course (TLC), which is a series of video presentations on Texas law from experienced Texas attorneys.

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        Who has to complete the Texas Law Component (TLC)?

        Generally, anyone seeking admission to the bar of Texas must complete the Texas Law Component. This includes those applying to take the Texas bar exam, those seeking to transfer a UBE score to Texas, those applying for Admission Without Examination, and those applying for a Military Spouse Temporary License. 

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        How do I complete the Texas Law Component?

        The Texas Law Component is available through the State Bar of Texas – TexasBarCLE. There is no cost for the course, but you’ll need to register as a user of TexasBarCLE before you can register for the Texas Law Component.  Go to www.texasbarcle.com/TBLE, click "Register Now," and follow the prompts.

        To complete the TLC, you will watch a series of lectures and answer some "hurdle questions" at the end of each segment. The hurdle questions are designed to ensure that you have a minimal level of comprehension of the segment you just watched. The questions are not intended to be tricky, difficult, or hard. If you pay attention to the lecture, and perhaps take a few notes, you should be able to get through the hurdle questions. You must successfully answer most of the hurdle questions in order to proceed to the next segment. 

        The total length of the presentations is approximately 12 hours.

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        How do I register for the Texas Law Component?

        The Texas Law Component is available through the State Bar of Texas – TexasBarCLE. There is no cost for the course, but you’ll need to register as a user of TexasBarCLE before you can register for the Texas Law Component.  Go to www.texasbarcle.com/TBLE, click "Register Now," and follow the prompts.

        If you would like more detailed instructions on how to register for the TLC, click here.

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        I'm trying to register for the Texas Law Component, but I do not have a Texas Bar Card Number.

        You can register without a Texas Bar Card Number. Click here for help.

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        When do I take the Texas Law Component?

        Texas Bar Exam Applicants - may complete the TLC up to one year before taking the bar exam and up to two years after passing the bar exam in Texas. Note that you cannot be licensed until you complete the TLC.

        Texas Admission Without Examination (AWOX) Applicants - may complete the TLC up to one year before and up to six months after being notified by our office that they appear eligible for AWOX, but are currently missing one or more licensing requirements. Note that you cannot be licensed until you complete the TLC.

        Texas UBE Transfer (UBET) Applicants - may complete the TLC up to one year before and up to six months after a character and fitness determination.  Note that you cannot be licensed until you complete the TLC.

        Texas Military Spouse Temporary License (MSTL) Applicants - may complete the TLC up to one year before and up to two years after the date their application is submitted to our office.  Note that you cannot be licensed until you complete the TLC.

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        Texas Lawyers' Assistance Program (TLAP)


        What is the Texas Lawyers' Assistance Program (TLAP)?

        The Texas Lawyers’ Assistance Program is here to support any law student or graduate struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use issues, grief, or any mental health challenge.  TLAP can be reached anytime at 1-800-343-TLAP or by texting TLAP to 555888.  It can provide connection to mental health professionals, peer support, group support, and even financial assistance for mental health care. 

         

        TLAP recently produced a program for law students and graduates dealing with the anxiety of the COVID-19 isolation and it can be viewed here: https://texasbar-wo4m90g.vids.io/videos/ac98d2be1e1be4c325/law-student-hope-final-mp4 .

         

        TLAP has a page full of remote well-being resources for law students, graduates, and lawyers here: https://www.texasbar.com/tlaphelps/remote-well-being .

         

        Finally, this is TLAP’s law school page with many resources, including informational and self-help papers, videos, podcasts, and more: https://www.tlaphelps.org/law-students .

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        Testing Accommodations


        How do I request accommodations on the Texas Bar Exam?

        Start here: How to Request Accommodations on the Texas Bar Exam

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        Uniform Bar Examination (UBE)


        What is the UBE?

        The Uniform Bar Examination (UBE) is an assessment of competency to practice law that is coordinated by the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) and is composed of the Multistate Essay Examination, two Multistate Performance Test tasks, and the Multistate Bar Examination. It may be administered by any participating jurisdiction over two days. More information on the UBE can be found at www.ncbex.org/exams/ube/. Participating jurisdictions accept transferred UBE scores from other jurisdictions that meet passing score requirements for the receiving jurisdiction.  

         Day 1 Day 2
        Morning Session 2 MPTs (3 hours) MBE 1-100 (3 hours )
        Lunch Break Approx. 12:30-1:30 Approx. 12:30-1:30
        Afternoon Session 6 Multistate Essays (3 hours) MBE 101-200 (3 hours)


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        When did Texas begin using the UBE?

        Under the approved Rules, we began accepting applications to transfer UBE scores from other jurisdictions on December 1, 2019, and we administered the first UBE in Texas in February 2021.

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        What will Texas require as a passing score on the UBE?

        The minimum passing UBE score in Texas is 270.

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        Where can I find sample UBE questions?

        NCBE offers free sample questions for the MBE and MPRE, free questions and analyses from older administrations of the MEE, free MPT summaries from recent administrations, and MPTs and point sheets from older administrations of the MPT.  

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        Will Texas require completion of a Texas Law Component, in addition to an acceptable UBE score, to qualify for admission to the Texas Bar?

        Yes. Under the approved Rules, an applicant for admission to the Bar must successfully complete the Texas Law Component prescribed by the Board and approved by the Supreme Court. The Texas Law Component is satisfied by completing the Texas Law Course. 

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        What is the Texas Law Component?

        The Texas Law Component is a licensing requirement established by Rule 2(a)(8) and Rule 5. It is satisfied by completing the Texas Law Course (TLC), which is a series of video presentations on Texas law from experienced Texas attorneys.

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        How do I register for the Texas Law Component (TLC)?

        The Texas Law Component is available through the State Bar of Texas – TexasBarCLE. There is no cost for the course, but you’ll need to register as a user of TexasBarCLE before you can register for the Texas Law Component.  Go to www.texasbarcle.com/TBLE, click "Register Now," and follow the prompts.

        If you would like more detailed instructions on how to register for the TLC, click here.

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        Where can I find a copy of the approved Rules to implement the UBE in Texas?

        The approved Rules begin on page 3 of the Court's ORDER GIVING FINAL APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE RULES GOVERNING ADMISSION TO THE BAR OF TEXAS, Misc. Docket No. 19-9078. 

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        How did the Court decide to adopt the UBE?

        On October 8, 2018, the Supreme Court of Texas issued an order accepting the recommendation of the Task Force on the Texas Bar Examination to adopt the Uniform Bar Examination in Texas, and seeking public comment.

        On March 26, 2019, the Court issued an order amending the Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas to implement those Task Force recommendations. This order was made available for public comment.

        After reviewing all comments received, on August 23, 2019, the Court issued Final Approval of Amendments to the Rules, to take effect December 1, 2019. 

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        Waiver Requests


        Can I request the Board to waive a requirement of the Rules?

        Pursuant to Rule 20(e), the Board is given discretion in the interpretation and application of the Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas. For good cause shown to the satisfaction of the Board, upon written request, the Board may grant waivers of specific requirements described in these Rules, unless it appears therefrom that no exceptions are contemplated by the Supreme Court.

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        How do I request a waiver of the Rules, other than fee waivers?

        If you believe good cause exists to waive a specific requirement of the Rules, you may request the Board to do so pursuant to Rule 20(e).

        1. Complete the applicable application in your ATLAS account.
        2. After you have completed the application, a green "Submit" button will appear. You must first submit your application and pay the fee before you can submit a waiver request. After submitting your application and paying the fee, you may use the blue "Waiver Request" button to submit your waiver request.
        3. Use the "Upload Required Documents" feature to submit any supporting documentation. Label it "Waiver Documentation." Your request will be decided based solely on your written request submitted through the "Waiver Request" feature and any supporting documentation you have uploaded to your ATLAS account that you have labeled "Waiver Documentation."

        You have the burden to show good cause for why the Court's Rules should not apply to your particular case. Requests are presented to a 3-member panel of Board members. Your request will be decided based solely on your written request submitted through the "Waiver Request" feature and any supporting documentation you have uploaded to your ATLAS account that you have labeled "Waiver Documentation."

        For more information, please see Waiver Requests-Guidelines and Instructions.

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        How do I submit a request to waive or reduce fees?

        If you believe good cause exists to waive or reduce fees, you may request the Board to do so pursuant to Rules 18 and 20(e).

        1. Complete the applicable application in your ATLAS account.
        2. After you have completed the application, and BEFORE you submit it, a blue "Waiver Request"  button will appear on your ATLAS user page. If you are requesting a waiver of fees, you may use that button to submit your fee waiver request. 
        3. Use the "Upload Required Documents" feature to submit any supporting documentation. Label it "Waiver Documentation." Your request will be decided based solely on your written request submitted through the "Waiver Request" feature and any supporting documentation you have uploaded to your ATLAS account that you have labeled "Waiver Documentation."

        You have the burden to show good cause for why the Court's Rules should not apply to your particular case. Your request will be decided based solely on your written request submitted through the "Waiver Request" feature and any supporting documentation you have uploaded to your ATLAS account that you have labeled "Waiver Documentation."

        For more information, including documentation you must include with your fee waiver request, please see Waiver Requests-Guidelines and Instructions.

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        How are waiver requests decided?

        The Board has delegated authority to decide requests to waive deadlines and requests to lower or waive fees to the Executive Director. 

        A 3-member panel of the Board will consider all other waiver requests at a public meeting. Notice of the meeting will be posted with the Texas Register. Panels determine whether a requestor has shown good cause to grant a request based solely on the written request and documentation submitted with the request. The Panel will not consider any other documentation, statements, or evidence. As a courtesy, the Board’s policy is to allow requestors who attend a public meeting to speak for up to 3 minutes—however, time constraints at any particular meeting may require a Panel to shorten or eliminate the amount of speaking time it extends to requestors. 

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        Are my waiver materials confidential, or are they open to the public?

        Your waiver materials are open to the public. They are not confidential. A panel of the board will deliberate on your waiver materials at a public meeting. 

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        General FAQs


        My credit card won't go through, or I am getting error messages when I try to submit my fee.

        For assistant with payment submission, please contact the help desk at Texas.gov:

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        Why does the BLE website direct me to the Texas.gov website to pay for my application?

        Online Payment is handled by Texas.gov, the official website of Texas. The price of the service includes funds that support ongoing operations and enhancements of Texas.gov, which is provided by a third party in partnership with the State, as well as processing fees.

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        What is a valid law license?

        A valid law license means an active law license.

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        If I do not take the bar exam, will you refund my fees?

        No. There is no refund of fees or transfer of fees to a future exam. See Rule 18.

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        How do I receive information on obtaining Supervised Practice Card?

        Contact the State Bar of Texas, Membership Department: (512) 427-1383. The State Bar's toll-free number is: 800-204-2222, ext 1383.  More information is available at the Law Student Division of the State Bar of Texas.

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        How do I submit a change of address?
        • Login to your ATLAS account.

        • Click the Personal Info tab in the toolbar at the top of the page.

        • Edit your information as needed.

        • Click the Update button at the bottom of the page.

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        How can I get a copy of my Declaration or Application?
        • You can probably print what you want from your ATLAS account.

        1.  Log in to your ATLAS account.

        2.  Click the blue View Your Application History button.

        3.  Click one application at a time.

        4.  For each application, scroll to Forms & Progress.

        5.  Click the blue View/Print Form button next to the application. This opens a .pdf of your application.

        6.   After saving or printing the .pdf of your application, scroll up and click the blue Back to User Home button.

        7.   Repeat Steps 2 – 6 as necessary.

        • To request a copy of your bar exam application, declaration of intent, or other application submitted to us, please complete our copy request form. Fees may apply. You may note on the request form any specific material(s) that you are requesting from your file. Per our retention policy, we only maintain files for five years from date of licensure for applicants who were issued a license to practice law in Texas, and five years from the date of last major activity for applicants who have not been issued a license to practice law in Texas.
        • To request application dates, bar exam scores, confirmation of passing the bar exam, licensure dates, MPRE scores from before 1999, unofficial MBE scores, or other documents or data related to a declaration, application, or bar examination, please send a signed, written request outlining the requested material(s), including the applicant's name at time of exam, birthdate, last four digits of the applicant's social security number, approximate month and year of exam, and the physical address where you’d like the information mailed. You may submit the signed request by mail, fax, or email. See Contact Us for addresses and numbers. 
        • To request us to mail an official MBE score to another jurisdiction, please complete the online request at https://ble.texas.gov/displaymbetransferform.action. There is a fee for this service.
        • Requests for MPRE scores for exams taken in 1999 or later must be submitted directly to the National Conference on Bar Examiners. Additional information is available at http://www.ncbex.org/ncbe-exam-score-services/mpre-score-services/
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        Is the Board of Law Examiners associated with, or a part of, the State Bar of Texas?

        No.

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        How much are bar dues?

        Contact the State Bar of Texas, Membership Department: (512) 427-1383.  The State Bar's toll-free number is: 800-204-2222, ext 1383.

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        What are the telephone numbers for the State Bar of Texas, MCLE, Membership, Supreme Court Clerk's office, and the Center for Legal Ethics and Professionalism?
        • State Bar of Texas 512-427-1463
        • Membership Department, 512-427-1383
        • MCLE Department, 512-427-1806
        • Supreme Court Clerk's office 512-463-1312
        • Center for Legal Ethics 512-427-1477
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        What are the ABA-approved law schools in Texas?

        Baylor Law School (Waco)

        South Texas College of Law Houston (Houston)

        SMU Dedman School of Law (Dallas)

        St. Mary's School of Law (San Antonio)

        Texas Southern University Thurgood Marshall School of Law (Houston)

        Texas Tech School of Law (Lubbock)

        Texas A&M Law School of Law (Fort Worth)

        University of Houston Law Center (Houston)

        University of Texas at Austin School of Law (Austin)

        UNT Dallas College of Law (Dallas)

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        How do I become a lawyer?

        The State Bar of Texas has helpful information on becoming a lawyer.  However, the Board of Law Examiners is charged with determining whether each applicant for admission to the State Bar is, in fact, qualified.  No individual will be recommended for admission to the State Bar of Texas until it is determined that they are in compliance with the Rules Governing Admission to the Bar of Texas.  The Board of Law Examiners is not associated with, or a part of, the State Bar of Texas. 

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        How can I deliver documents to the Board by the filing deadline?

        An application is considered timely filed if we receive the following on or before 11:59 p.m. Central Time on the filing deadline date:

        1. A substantially completed application
        2. A certification or verification
        3. An authorization and release
        4. All required fees (or a request to waive those fees due to indigency)

        Materials transmitted through ATLAS are received at the time of transmission (as recorded by ATLAS), even if the transmission does not occur during business hours. For example, an item transmitted through ATLAS on Sunday, November 1 at 11:59 p.m. Central Time is received on Sunday, November 1.

        Materials mailed through the U.S. Postal Service are received on the postmark date. If materials have no legible postmark, then they are received on the date that they are actually delivered to staff at the Board’s office during business hours.

        Materials delivered by private courier (FedEx, UPS, etc.) or in person are received on the date that they are actually delivered to us at our office in Austin during business hours.

        Deadlines are strictly enforced.

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        How do I request public information or open records from the BLE?

        To request information from the Texas Board of Law Examiners, you may send your request

        • By email to

        PublicInformation@ble.texas.gov

        • By mail to

        Board of Law Examiners
        PO Box 13486
        Austin TX 78711-3486

        • In person to

        Board of Law Examiners
        205 West 14th Street, Suite 500
        Austin TX 78701

        For more information about your rights and our duties under the Public Information Act, see our Public Information Act Poster.

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