In most U.S. jurisdictions there’s no limit on bar exam attempts. A handful cap attempts or add requirements after several failures, such as extra study or board permission. Always check your jurisdiction’s rules before registering.
How many times can you take the bar exam?
Most states allow unlimited attempts, but some limit the number of tries or require extra steps after several failed attempts. Check your state’s admission rules.
USA Bar Exam: Quick Facts
- Administered by
- State bar admission boards (most exam content written by NCBE)
- Length (UBE)
- 2 days, about 12 hours of testing
- Components
- MBE (200 questions) · MEE (6 essays) · MPT (2 tasks)
- Scoring
- 400-point scale; most UBE states require 260–270
- When
- Last Tuesday–Wednesday of February and July
- Study time
- 400–600 hours (8–10 weeks full-time)
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Official sources
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and is not legal advice. Bar admission rules vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm dates, fees and requirements with your state’s bar admission authority. Read our editorial policy.