Paralegal License: California vs Illinois
Thinking about getting your paralegal license? Here's how California and Illinois compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.
| Requirement | California | Illinois |
|---|---|---|
| Education Hours | 900 hours | 720 hours |
| Exam | NALA CP or NFPA RP | NALA CP or NFPA RP |
| Application Fee | $0 | $0 |
| Exam Fee | $250 | $250 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $14,500 - $15,500 | $9,500 - $10,500 |
| Renewal Period | Every 5 years | Every 5 years |
| CE Hours | 50 hours | 50 hours |
| Renewal Fee | $0 | $0 |
Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?
Lower cost: Illinois is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $9,500-$10,500 compared to $14,500-$15,500.
Fewer education hours: Illinois requires 720 hours of pre-license education, compared to 900 hours in California.