What is Continuing Legal Education (CLE) & (MCLE)?

Law is one of the fastest-changing professions in the world. New legislation, evolving court rulings, and rapid advances in technology constantly reshape the practice of law. To remain competent, ethical, and compliant with state bar standards, most attorneys in the United States must complete Continuing Legal Education (CLE)—often referred to as Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE).

CLE goes beyond initial legal education, requiring ongoing learning in areas such as ethics, professional responsibility, and emerging legal issues. While the American Bar Association (ABA) provides accreditation guidance, each state’s bar association or supreme court sets its own CLE rules for credit hours, reporting cycles, and approved subjects.

Whether you’re a newly licensed attorney facing your first compliance deadline or a seasoned lawyer admitted in multiple states, understanding CLE requirements is essential. This guide explains how CLE works, which states require it, and how continuing education can support both compliance and career growth.

Defining CLE

Continuing Legal Education (CLE) refers to the professional educational requirements for attorneys to maintain their legal competency and keep their licenses active. It encompasses a structured set of learning activities designed to update legal professionals on new laws, legal trends, ethical considerations, and best practices. CLE programs are distinct from the initial legal education received in law school, focusing instead on ongoing professional development after admission to the bar.

Law is one of the most dynamic professions in the world. Laws evolve, court rulings reshape precedent, and technology is changing the way legal services are delivered. To keep up, most attorneys in the United States must complete Continuing Legal Education (CLE) throughout their careers. CLE ensures lawyers remain competent, ethical, and up to date in their practice areas.

Unlike a one-time licensing exam, CLE is ongoing—and requirements differ from state to state. Some states impose strict annual obligations, while others have no formal CLE system at all. Let’s break down how CLE works, why it exists, and what lawyers need to know to stay compliant.

1. Do Lawyers Really Need Continuing Education?

Is CLE mandatory for all lawyers?

Not everywhere. Most states in the U.S. require lawyers to earn CLE credits each year or every few years. However, a small handful of states—including the District of Columbia, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, and South Dakota—do not mandate CLE. That said, many attorneys in these states still choose to participate voluntarily to sharpen their skills.

Why is continuing education important for attorneys?

CLE is more than a box to check—it protects the integrity of the legal system. It ensures attorneys stay current on new laws, evolving ethical rules, and emerging practice trends. Whether it’s updates to tax regulations, changes in family law, or new privacy and cybersecurity rules, CLE helps lawyers avoid mistakes and better serve their clients.

Who sets CLE requirements?

Each state supreme court or state bar association determines CLE rules within its jurisdiction. That’s why a lawyer licensed in multiple states must track the unique reporting cycles and subject requirements of each jurisdiction.

2. CLE Requirements by State

Do all states require CLE for lawyers?

No. The majority do, but as noted earlier, five states currently do not mandate CLE. Every other state has its own reporting structure, typically measured in credit hours over one to three years.

Which states have the strictest CLE requirements?

States like California, New York, and Florida have some of the most rigorous requirements, both in the number of hours and in subject-specific credits. For example, many states require ethics hours, while others also mandate training on bias, professionalism, or technology.

Are there states with no CLE requirement?

Yes. As of now, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, and South Dakota have no CLE requirements for attorneys.

How do community property or multi-bar states handle CLE?

In community property states like Texas or California, the CLE rules generally mirror other states but may include unique subject requirements. Lawyers who belong to multiple bars must comply with each state’s CLE rules, though some jurisdictions allow attorneys to apply credits earned in one state toward requirements in another.

3. How CLE Works in Practice

How many CLE hours do lawyers need each year?

Most states require between 12 and 45 hours per reporting cycle, which is often one or two years. Some states require annual compliance, while others operate on a biennial or triennial cycle.

What subjects count toward CLE?

Core subjects include ethics and professionalism, which nearly every state mandates. Other common categories are practice management, substance abuse awareness, bias and diversity, and technology competence. Specialty areas may also be required depending on the jurisdiction.

How do lawyers report CLE credits?

Attorneys must typically self-report their CLE activities to the state bar. This can include certificates from course providers, online reporting through bar portals, or affidavits verifying attendance. Audits are sometimes conducted to ensure compliance.

Can CLE credits carry over to the next year?

In many jurisdictions, yes. Lawyers who exceed their required hours can roll credits into the next reporting period. However, there are often limits, and ethics credits may not always be transferable.

4. Online vs. In-Person CLE

Can lawyers take CLE courses online?

Yes. Almost all states recognize online CLE programs, including live webinars and on-demand recordings. This flexibility has grown significantly in recent years.

Are live webinars treated the same as classroom CLE?

In most jurisdictions, yes. Live, interactive webinars are generally treated the same as in-person classroom learning, since attorneys can ask questions in real time.

Are there limits on how many online CLE credits you can take?

Yes, in some states. For example, certain jurisdictions cap the number of self-study or on-demand hours that count toward CLE, requiring at least some in-person or live interaction credits.

5. Costs and Exemptions

How much does CLE cost for lawyers?

CLE costs vary widely. Individual courses may range from free to several hundred dollars, while unlimited annual subscriptions can cost $200–$500 or more.

Who pays for CLE — the lawyer or their firm?

It depends. Large firms often cover CLE costs for their attorneys, while solo practitioners and small firms usually pay out of pocket.

Can lawyers get free CLE?

Yes. Many state bars, nonprofits, and legal organizations provide free or low-cost CLE options, particularly in ethics and pro bono practice.

Are retired, inactive, or government lawyers exempt from CLE?

Often, yes. Many states exempt retired or inactive attorneys, judges, and sometimes government lawyers from CLE requirements. Exemptions vary and must be verified with each state bar.

What happens if a lawyer doesn’t complete CLE on time?

Consequences can include late fees, monetary penalties, mandatory catch-up credits, and in extreme cases, suspension of a law license until compliance is restored.

6. Benefits Beyond Compliance

How CLE helps lawyers stay competitive

CLE keeps attorneys updated on new practice areas and skills. By learning about topics like cybersecurity law or alternative dispute resolution, lawyers can expand their services and stay ahead of competitors.

How CLE impacts client trust and ethical practice

Clients expect attorneys to be knowledgeable and current. Completing CLE helps lawyers uphold ethical obligations and inspires confidence in their representation.

Does CLE improve career opportunities for lawyers?

Yes. CLE can open doors to specialization, leadership roles, and even lateral moves. It demonstrates a lawyer’s commitment to professional growth.

7. Future of CLE in the U.S.

Are CLE requirements changing?

Yes. States are adding new subject areas—such as diversity, equity and inclusion, and technology competence—to reflect modern legal challenges.

Will technology reshape how lawyers complete CLE?

Absolutely. Virtual CLE platforms, on-demand libraries, and AI-driven learning tools are becoming mainstream, making CLE more accessible than ever.

Is mandatory CLE here to stay?

Most likely. While some debate its effectiveness, the trend points toward expanding CLE requirements, not eliminating them.

Continuing Legal Education FAQs at a glance:

Is CLE required for lawyers?

In most U.S. states, yes. Each state sets its own rules, and the majority require ongoing education to maintain active bar status.

How many CLE hours are required?

It depends on the state. Requirements typically range from about 12 to 45 hours per reporting cycle.

Do any states not require CLE?

Yes. As of now, the states that do not mandate CLE are Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, and South Dakota.

Some states will also refer to them as MCLE requirements such as California.

Can lawyers take CLE online?

Yes. Many states allow live webinars, recorded programs, and self-study CLE courses, although some limit how many hours can be completed online.

Are there exemptions from CLE?

Yes. Judges, retired attorneys, military lawyers, and certain inactive status lawyers may qualify for exemptions, depending on the jurisdiction.

Can CLE hours be carried over to the next year?

In many states, yes—extra CLE credits can roll over, although limits often apply.

What activities count toward CLE besides courses?

Some states allow teaching, writing legal articles, mentoring, or pro bono work to count toward CLE credit.

Are new CLE topics being added?

Yes. Many states are expanding requirements to include areas like diversity, bias training, technology, and cybersecurity.

CLE Requirements by State

States Where CLE Is Mandatory:

Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming

States Where CLE Is Not Mandatory:

District of Columbia, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, South Dakota

Check your state bar’s official CLE requirements to confirm deadlines, credit hours, and approved courses for your jurisdiction.

Key Takeaways for Attorneys

Understanding your compliance period and credit requirements is crucial to staying in good standing. By tracking your hours of CLE, including ethics and specialized topics like mental health or elimination of bias, attorneys can meet mandatory continuing legal education obligations while enhancing their professional responsibility and effectiveness in the practice of law. Whether through online courses, out-of-state programs, or in-person seminars, both newly admitted attorneys and experienced lawyers in law firms must remain vigilant about MCLE credit and CLE compliance each calendar year. Staying up to date safeguards your career, protects your clients, and ensures adherence to the highest standards set by the ABA and state rules.

Continuing Legal Education is more than a box to check—it’s a professional obligation that protects clients, strengthens the justice system, and enhances an attorney’s career. While requirements vary by state, proactive management is key: track your hours, confirm your jurisdiction’s rules, and plan ahead to avoid penalties or license suspension.

Beyond compliance, CLE offers valuable benefits—expanding your expertise, improving client trust, and positioning you for new opportunities. By viewing CLE as an investment in your practice, you can stay competitive in a rapidly changing legal landscape.

Ready to fulfill your CLE requirements?

Explore NBI’s state-specific CLE courses—available on-demand, live webinars, and in-person seminars.