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D.C. Bar

Joining the D.C. Bar

The D.C. Court of Appeals Committee on Admissions is responsible for determining whether an applicant will be licensed to practice law in the District of Columbia. The D.C. Bar is a separate entity from the Committee on Admissions and is not involved in the administration of the bar exam or determining who will be admitted to the practice of law in D.C.

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Law Student Community

Want to get ahead of the pack? Joining the D.C. Bar Law Student Community (LSC) can get you there. Your LSC membership will provide résumé and skills boosting opportunities and one-on-on access to local practicing attorneys.

Student Studying

Lawyer Assistance Program for Law Students

A free, confidential program for D.C. Bar members, judges, and District law students who are experiencing problems, such as addiction, mental health symptoms, or stress, which interfere with their personal or professional lives.

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Pro Bono Opportunities for Law Students

Are you a law student looking to fulfill pro bono requirements or volunteer in the community?

D.C. Bar Career Center

Ready to connect your talent with opportunity? Use the D.C. Bar Career Center to help you in your search!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I check on the status of my application?

The Committee on Admissions can answer questions about the status of your submitted application. Please log into your account and use the "Create Message" button on your homepage. Your message will go directly to the Staff Reviewer responsible for your application. Please allow 2-3 business days for a response. Visit DC Bar Admissions Contact Information for additional information.

How do I become a D.C. Bar member?

The District of Columbia Court of Appeals’ Committee on Admissions reviews all applications for admission to the District of Columbia Bar. To become a member, whether by exam, motion, or special legal consultant, visit the Committee on Admissions of the District of Columbia Court of Appeals for application information. The Law School Certification form must be filled out and signed by your law school’s dean or registrar. Learn more about the different classes of membership at the D.C. Bar.

Do you have reciprocity with my state? Where can I find information?

The Committee on Admissions reviews all applications for admission to the District of Columbia Bar. See D.C. App. Rule 46. For further information, please contact the Committee on Admissions by phone at 202-879-2710 or by email at [email protected] or visit their office at 430 E Street NW, Room 123, Washington, DC 20001.

How do I obtain a duplicate copy of my original application?

Please contact the Committee on Admissions by phone at 202-879-2710 or by email at [email protected]. It is located at 430 E Street NW, Room 123, Washington, DC 20001.

I was recently sworn into the D.C. Bar. When can I expect to receive my Bar number?

Before obtaining your D.C. Bar number, follow the instructions in your New Member Welcome email to complete your registration statement. Once registered, log in to your D.C. Bar online account, navigate to your profile page, where your Bar number will be listed. Your initial new member invoice for your license will also be available on that page. Expect your D.C. Bar Welcome packet, including your Bar card, to arrive via USPS within about 30 days, sent to your primary mailing address.

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