Application forms for 2025 will be accessed online through the State Bar’s membership portal. The early application discount deadline will be April 1.

The tentative 2025 exam schedule is listed below.

Exam Dates

The anticipated 2025 specialization exam schedule is listed below. Exams will be offered either in-person or through remote proctoring. It is preferred that examinees come to the State Bar building for exams that require the use of open book materials or attachments. Please contact specialization staff regarding accommodation requests. Additional information, including exam registration forms, will be provided following the August meeting of the Board of Legal Specialization.

Elder Law

Remote Exam Administration

See the National Elder Law Foundation calendar for upcoming exam dates. *State Bar staff members can be available as on-site proctors upon request.

Appellate Practice, Criminal Law (State and/or Federal)*, Employment Law, Estate Planning, Juvenile Delinquency, Real Property (Commercial and/or Residential)*, Utilities Law and Trademark Law

State Bar Building in Raleigh Preferred

October 16, 17 or 22

*2nd day required ONLY for those seeking certification in both federal and state criminal law or both residential and commercial real property law. Please contact specialization staff to schedule.

Last day for in-person exam administration: October 22

Child Welfare Law, Family Law, Privacy and Information Security Law, Social Security Disability and Workers' Compensation Law

Remote Exam Administration Preferred

October 14, 24 or 30

Last day for remote exam administration: October 30

Bankruptcy Law

State Bar Building in Raleigh

November 4 or 7

*2nd day required ONLY for those seeking certification in both business and consumer bankruptcy law.

Last day for bankruptcy law exam administration: November 7