The MPRE (Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination) is the legal ethics exam that nearly every U.S. jurisdiction requires for bar admission, in addition to the bar exam. Most students take it during law school.
This guide covers the format, the passing score in each state, the most-tested rules and a study plan. Then practice with the free MPRE practice test.
Key takeaways
- 60 multiple-choice questions (50 scored) in 2 hours.
- Scaled scores range from 50 to 150; states require 75–86 to pass.
- The fee is about $150 per attempt.
- It tests the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct and the Model Code of Judicial Conduct.
USA MPRE Exam: Quick Facts
- Developed by
- NCBE
- Questions
- 60 (50 scored + 10 pretest)
- Time
- 2 hours
- Score scale
- 50–150
- Passing score
- 75–86 depending on jurisdiction
- Fee
- About $150
What Is the MPRE Exam?
The MPRE measures your knowledge of the ethical standards that govern lawyers and judges. It’s offered several times a year, and scores can usually be transferred to other jurisdictions, each of which sets its own passing score and time limits for using the score.
More on What Is the MPRE Exam →MPRE Passing Score by State
Each jurisdiction sets its own minimum scaled score, from 75 to 86. Many states require 85, California requires 86, and some require 75 or 80. As a rough guide, answering about 34–39 of the 50 scored questions correctly lands in the passing range for most states.
Good to know
Check your jurisdiction’s bar admission website for its exact MPRE score and how long an MPRE score remains valid.
What’s on the MPRE?
- Conflicts of interest: concurrent, former-client and imputed conflicts, and business deals with clients
- Client-lawyer relationship: scope, decision-making, competence, withdrawal
- Confidentiality: Rule 1.6 and its exceptions
- Fees and client property: contingent fees, trust accounts
- Litigation and advocacy: candor, fairness to the opposing party, communicating with represented persons
- Advertising and solicitation
- Judicial conduct: disqualification, gifts, political activity
How to Pass the MPRE
- Plan 20–40 hours over 2–4 weeks.
- Focus on conflicts of interest and confidentiality, the most heavily tested areas.
- Learn the rule, not your gut instinct. Many answers turn on exact wording.
- Do plenty of practice questions. Our MPRE practice test covers every major topic.
Free practice test
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Choose your test length, practice with instant feedback or take it exam-style, and get your score with an explanation for every answer.
Go to the USA MPRE Exam practice test →USA MPRE Exam FAQs
How many questions are on the MPRE?
60 multiple-choice questions, 50 scored and 10 unscored, in 2 hours.
Full answer →What is a passing MPRE score?
Scores range from 50 to 150. Jurisdictions require between 75 and 86; many require 85.
Full answer →How much does the MPRE cost?
About $150 per attempt. Check NCBE for current fees and deadlines.
Full answer →When should I take the MPRE?
Most students take it during their second or third year of law school, after taking a professional responsibility course.
Full answer →Is the MPRE part of the bar exam?
No. It’s a separate exam, but nearly every jurisdiction requires it for admission.
Full answer →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.