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Verified 2026 Updates:
- CLAT is conducted by the Consortium of National Law Universities, not the Bar Council of India
- The Bar Council of India runs the All India Bar Examination, which every law graduate must pass to receive the Certificate of Practice
- In the UK, the Solicitors Qualifying Examination has replaced the LPC as the route to becoming a solicitor.
Becoming a lawyer means completing a recognised law degree and then clearing the licensing step for the country where you want to practise. The exact path differs between India and abroad, but every route combines academic study, practical training and a bar or admission requirement. This guide sets out the routes in India, the USA, the UK, Canada and Australia for 2026.
⚡ Quick Answer
To become a lawyer in India, complete Class 12 in any stream, then earn a law degree: a five-year integrated LLB after 12th or a three-year LLB after graduation. Admission to National Law Universities is through CLAT, conducted by the Consortium of NLUs. After the degree you enrol with a State Bar Council and pass the All India Bar Examination.