Why Texas?
Texas is the second-largest state by population and has one of the fastest-growing legal markets in the country. Major corporations are relocating to Texas (no state income tax!), creating significant demand for attorneys in Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio.
Texas adopted the UBE in 2021, making it easier for out-of-state attorneys to transfer their scores and practice in the Lone Star State.
Texas Legal Market Highlights
- 3rd largest bar in the US (100,000+ attorneys)
- Major corporate relocations: Tesla, Oracle, HP, Toyota
- No state income tax: Higher take-home pay vs. NY/CA
- Energy capital: Strong oil & gas, energy practice opportunities
- Lower cost of living: vs. coastal cities
Exam Format (UBE)
Texas uses the standard UBE format - identical to New York, Illinois, and other UBE states.
Day 1: Written Components
- MEE (6 Essays): 30 minutes each (3 hours total)
- MPT (2 Performance Tests): 90 minutes each (3 hours total)
Day 2: MBE
- 200 Multiple Choice Questions
- AM: 100 questions (3 hours)
- PM: 100 questions (3 hours)
Requirements
- UBE Score: 270 or higher
- MPRE Score: 85 or higher
- Education: JD from ABA-accredited law school
- Character & Fitness: Background check required
- Texas Law Course: None required (unlike some UBE states)
No Texas-Specific Component
Unlike New York (NYLE), Texas doesn't require any state-specific test beyond the UBE. Just hit 270 on the UBE and you're in.
Texas Bar Pass Rates
| Category | Pass Rate |
|---|---|
| Overall (All Takers) | 68% |
| First-Time (ABA Schools) | 82% |
| UT Austin (First-Time) | 94% |
| Repeat Takers | 35% |
Important Dates
July 2026 Exam
UBE Score Transfer
As a UBE state, Texas accepts transferred UBE scores from other jurisdictions:
- Minimum score: 270
- Score validity: 3 years from exam date
- Application fee: $250 for UBE score transfer
- Still need: Character & Fitness, MPRE
Where Your Texas Score Transfers
With a 270, you can also practice in: Colorado (266), DC (266), Arizona (273), Illinois (266). Check individual state requirements for higher cut scores.
Texas-Specific Prep Tips
1. Target 275+ for Safety
Texas requires 270 - aim for 275+ to ensure you pass and have a portable score for other states.
2. Strong MPT Performance
Texas weights the written components heavily. Solid MPT performance can compensate for a weaker MBE day.
3. Apply to Declaration of Intent Early
Texas requires a "Declaration of Intent to Study Law" filed during 1L year. Make sure this is done - you can't sit for the bar without it.
FAQ
Is Texas a good state to practice law?
Yes - Texas has a booming legal market, no state income tax, lower cost of living than coastal cities, and strong corporate and energy practices. Houston and Dallas are major BigLaw markets.
Can I waive into Texas with experience?
Texas doesn't have traditional reciprocity, but experienced attorneys can transfer UBE scores or take the exam. There's no "admission on motion" path for out-of-state attorneys.
Where is the Texas bar administered?
The exam is administered in multiple locations including Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. You'll select your preferred location during registration.