Restroom Breaks Done Right (With a Nod to Buc-ee's)

For those unfamiliar with Buc-ee’s, it’s not just any gas station—it’s a Texas-based chain of massive convenience stores and travel centers, known for its enormous locations, quirky beaver mascot, and most importantly, its spotlessly clean restrooms.

Buc-ee’s is consistently rated as having the cleanest restrooms in America, and travelers rave about how well-maintained they are. In fact, Buc-ee’s won Cintas’ Best Restroom Award in 2012 and continues to set the standard for clean, welcoming facilities. Travelers don’t just seek out Buc-ee’s for fuel or snacks but also for the peace of mind that comes with knowing they’ll have a clean, spacious restroom to use along the way.

That's why whenever there's a Buc-ee's en route to my final destination, I always plan to make a pit stop there.

Recently, I visited the Buc-ee’s in Smiths Grove, Kentucky, and met the iconic Buc-ee’s beaver mascot in person (yes, there’s photographic evidence of me geeking out!). This experience got me thinking:

While preparing for the bar exam, most students focus on mastering substantive law, refining essay-writing skills, and improving their performance on multiple-choice questions. However, one often-overlooked aspect of exam day preparation is strategically managing your restroom breaks during the exam.

So, let’s talk about restroom breaks. Just as you wouldn’t embark on a long road trip without knowing where to stop, the same principle applies to preparing for bathroom breaks during the bar exam. Proper planning is essential.

Jurisdiction Rules: Know Before You Go

Every jurisdiction has its own rules regarding restroom breaks during the bar exam. Being aware of these guidelines beforehand can make a big difference in how you manage your time on exam day. Here are some common rules to keep in mind:

Limited Breaks: Some jurisdictions allow restroom breaks as needed, while others limit how often (and when) you can leave the room. Typically, there is no formal break time during the exam, so your time keeps running whether you’re at your desk or in the restroom.

Proctor Guidelines: In some jurisdictions, you’ll need to raise your hand and wait for a proctor’s permission before leaving the room. In other jurisdictions, you might have to take one of the two or three flags that might be hanging next the exit door. If all the flags are taken, then you'll have to wait for someone to return from the restroom. Proctors may also track when you leave and return, so try to minimize the time you spend away from your desk.

Security Measures: Some jurisdictions impose strict security protocols. You might need to pass through metal detectors upon re-entry or sign in and out. In some cases, you may need to turn in your testing materials to the proctors before leaving the room. (Unfortunately, I knew someone who had forgotten to do so on the first day of the exam and, as a result, was asked not to return to complete the second day of the exam.) Be prepared for these or other additional steps that could cut into your exam time.

Tip: Check your jurisdiction’s bar exam handbook well in advance of exam day to familiarize yourself with the exact restroom policies. This preparation will help you avoid surprises and better manage your time during the exam.

Time Management: How to Plan Your Restroom Strategy

Since restroom breaks aren’t scheduled into the exam, you need to plan when and how to take them. Here are some tips to help you manage bathroom breaks without losing valuable time:

Go Before the Exam Starts: Always visit the restroom before the exam begins. A quick restroom break beforehand can save you precious minutes during the exam.

Monitor Your Hydration: Stay hydrated, but avoid over-hydrating. Drinking too much water just before the exam can lead to frequent restroom trips, which may disrupt your focus. Find a balance that keeps you alert without needing to leave the room too often.

Use Natural Lulls: If you must take a break, try to do so during natural transitions between parts of the exam, such as between essays or after completing a large set of multiple-choice questions. These moments are less likely to interrupt your thought process, allowing you to step out with minimal impact on your performance.

Practice During Mock Exams: Treat your restroom strategy like any other part of your bar prep. During practice exams, time how long it takes to leave, use the restroom, and return. Knowing how much time a break might take on exam day will help you plan more effectively.

Mastering the bar exam isn’t just about knowing the law—it’s about understanding your personal needs and planning accordingly.

Good News for University of Dayton Students

Here’s some exciting news for students at the University of Dayton School of Law, where I teach: by December 2025, Buc-ee’s will open its first Ohio location, about 30 minutes north of campus! So, while you’re preparing for the bar exam (or just need a study break), you’ll soon have the chance to visit one of the most highly regarded travel stops in the country—complete with its spotless restrooms and maybe even a chance to snap a selfie with the famous beaver mascot!