Lawyer Licensing Process

The focus of the Lawyer Licensing Process is to ensure that candidates have demonstrated they possess the required entry-level competencies, in order to provide legal services effectively and in the public interest.   

 Information on the Law Practice Program


Professional competence is achieved through a combination of knowledge, skills, abilities and judgment. Prior to applying, it is strongly recommended that candidates review the Lawyer Licensing Process Policies and the Licensing Examination Rules and Protocol to familiarize themselves with relevant information.


The Licensing Process consists of the following mandatory components that are required to be completed in order to be called to the Bar of Ontario:

Barrister Licensing
Examination & Solicitor   
Licensing Examination 
    +     Articling Program     +     Good Character Requirement

     ›     Call to the Bar of
Ontario
(Become Licensed) 
 
or
 Law Practice Program  

  This section guides a qualified applicant through the application process:

 Apply Now


To qualify for admission to the Lawyer Licensing Process, an applicant must have acquired credentials through one of the following options:

Graduates of an Accredited 
Law School (Common Law)

For applicants who acquire an 
L.B./J.D. in Canada
LEARN MORE
Graduates of International or
Non-Accredited Canadian Law Schools

LEARN MORE
Lawyers from Outside 
of Ontario

For lawyers called outside Ontario who wish to practise Law in Ontario
LEARN MORE


  The Law Society recently hosted a webcast for law students providing general information on the Lawyer Licensing Process, how to apply, the Experiential Training and Licensing Examination components, relevant deadlines and other procedural information.

 Listen to the webcast