License status options

There are two classes of licensing: active and inactive. New licensees are enrolled with an active license and will be billed active fees for the calendar year in which they are admitted. For more information on license status options, continue reading below.

• How to complete a license status change
• Complete a transfer to inactive status
• Complete a transfer to active status

How to complete a license status change

You may apply to change from active to inactive status or vice versa by submitting the required form with the transfer fee indicated in the Schedule of Charges and Deadlines.

Note, you cannot change license status while suspended.

Complete a transfer to inactive status

A licensee may, upon submission of the Application for Transfer to Inactive Status form, be enrolled as an inactive licensee if they:

• Are not under suspension;

• Do not practice law, or occupy a position in the employ of or rendering any legal services for an active licensee;
• Do not occupy position wherein they are called upon in any capacity to give legal advice or counsel or examine the law or pass upon the legal effect of any act, document or law.

To qualify for the inactive fee for the upcoming license renewal, you must submit a completed Application for Transfer to Inactive Status by December 1. Additionally, the effective date of the transfer to inactive must be on or before December 31 to qualify. 

A change to inactive after that date is permissible, but the licensee must pay annual fees at the active rate and is not entitled to a refund because of the change to inactive status.

Complete a transfer to active status

A status change to active will be effective upon the State Bar’s receipt of the Request to Transfer to Active Status Form. Please note, while suspended, you cannot request a transfer to active status. Additionally, if applicable, once the annual fees have been adjusted to the active rate, payment will be expected promptly.