Is CLE mandatory in California?

Yes — California requires 25 hours every three years, with the specialty hours and format rules broken down in the facts card at the top of this page. Verify current details with the official source linked there, since requirements change.

How much can be self-study?

Up to half — at least 12.5 of the 25 hours must be participatory. Live webinars count as participatory; plan the split accordingly.

When is the California CLE deadline?

California staggers three-year cycles by last-name compliance group, and recent cycles were adjusted to 38-month transitions — check your specific group and date at calbar.ca.gov.

Do vendor webinars (Clio, 8am) count?

Where the program is accredited for California credit, yes — the course page states it. Non-accredited sessions are still education, just not credit.

Can I carry extra hours forward?

No — California does not allow carryover. Banking 30 hours this cycle buys you nothing next cycle.

What satisfies the technology hour?

Accredited programs on technology in the practice of law — which the current legal-AI webinar wave supplies in abundance. Confirm CA accreditation per program.

California MCLE 2026: Requirements + Free Webinar Sources

California MCLE: 25 Hours, Decoded — and Where to Earn Them FreeCalifornia's 25-hour MCLE cycle now includes technology and civility hours. The full breakdown of ethics, bias, competence, and participatory minimums.