The Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE) is a 60-question, 2-hour exam required for bar admission in 49 US states and the District of Columbia (excluding Wisconsin and Puerto Rico). Each state sets its own minimum passing MPRE score, ranging from 75 to 86 on the scaled score system. Knowing your jurisdiction's requirement before you test helps you set an accurate target and avoid the costly delay of a retake.
Every US jurisdiction that requires the MPRE sets its own minimum passing score. Most states require a scaled score between 75 and 86. Below are the requirements for major jurisdictions: Practice with the free MPRE Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination Practice practice test on PracticeTestGeeks (7 questions with answer explanations).
Always verify your state's current requirement on the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) website or your state bar's official admissions page, as requirements change. Wisconsin does not require the MPRE; Puerto Rico accepts the UBE score instead.
The MPRE uses a scaled score system, not a percentage. Here is how raw scores become scaled scores:
Score report timeline: Scores are released approximately 5 weeks after the exam date through your NCBE account. MPRE scores are valid for bar admission for at least 3 years in most jurisdictions (some extend this to 5 years).
Facts verified Oct 21, 2026 against National Conference of Bar Examiners. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
| Item | Detail | Official source |
|---|---|---|
| Number of questions | 60 multiple-choice questions (50 scored + 10 unscored pretest) | National Conference of Bar Examiners |
| Time limit | 2 hours | National Conference of Bar Examiners |
| Passing score | Set by each jurisdiction; scaled score range 50โ150 | National Conference of Bar Examiners |
| Exam fee | $185 per administration (2026 and 2027) | National Conference of Bar Examiners |
| Delivery | Computer-based at Pearson VUE test centers | National Conference of Bar Examiners |
| Eligibility | Required for bar admission in all US jurisdictions except Wisconsin and Puerto Rico | National Conference of Bar Examiners |
| Score release | Typically within 5 weeks of the exam | National Conference of Bar Examiners |
| Registration opens | March 2027 registration open; August and November 2027 opening later in 2026 | National Conference of Bar Examiners |
Facts verified Oct 21, 2026 against National Conference of Bar Examiners. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
Interactive MPRE Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination Practice resources on PracticeTestGeeks, free to start:
The MPRE is administered three times per year โ in March, August, and November. Each administration has a registration deadline approximately 5 weeks before the test date. Register through your NCBE account at ncbex.org.
Retake policy: There is no limit to the number of times you may take the MPRE. The fee is $95 per attempt. Most jurisdictions count each administration score separately โ the highest passing score is used for bar admission purposes, and most states do not require you to report failed attempts.
Strategic timing: Most law students take the MPRE during their second year of law school after completing a Professional Responsibility course. This timing allows a retake if needed before bar exam registration deadlines in the third year.
Score transfer process: Once you pass, your score is retained in the NCBE database. To transfer your score to a new jurisdiction, submit a Score Transfer Request through ncbex.org. Most transfers are processed within 1 business day. The fee for a score transfer is $20 per jurisdiction.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| MPRE credential is recognized by employers and industry professionals | Preparation requires significant time and study commitment |
| Higher earning potential compared to non-credentialed peers | Associated costs for exams, materials, and renewal fees |
| Expanded career opportunities and professional advancement | Continuing education needed to maintain credentials |
| Structured learning path builds comprehensive knowledge | Competition for advanced positions can be challenging |
| Professional development that stays current with industry standards | Requirements and standards may vary by state or region |
Try these questions from our free MPRE Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination Practice practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.
What role do key performance indicators play in strategic implementation?
Answer: A. They provide measurable benchmarks to track progress toward strategic objectives
KPIs serve as measurable benchmarks that enable organizations to track progress toward strategic objectives and make data-driven adjustments to implementation plans.
Why is data visualization important in professional reporting?
Answer: A. It makes complex data more accessible and easier to understand quickly
Data visualization transforms complex data sets into visual representations that make patterns, trends, and insights more immediately accessible and understandable to diverse audiences.
What role does continuing education play in maintaining certification?
Answer: A. It ensures professionals stay current with evolving standards and practices
Continuing education is essential to maintaining certification as it ensures professionals remain current with industry developments and evolving standards.
What distinguishes quality assurance from quality control?
Answer: A. QA is proactive and process-focused; QC is reactive and product-focused
Quality assurance is a proactive approach focused on preventing defects through process improvement, while quality control is reactive, focused on identifying defects in products.
Take the full MPRE Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination Practice practice test