Paladin Spell List — D&D 5e
Paladins are half-casters who blend martial prowess with divine magic, channeling their sacred oaths into powerful support and smiting spells. They prepare a small number of spells each day from the paladin spell list. Divine Smite, while not a spell, is their signature feature for burst damage.
At a Glance
Casting Stat
Charisma
Spell List Type
prepared
Prepare Formula
Charisma modifier + half paladin level (rounded down)
Ritual Casting
No
Cantrips Known
0 - Paladins do not learn cantrips
Unique Mechanic
Divine Smite lets paladins expend spell slots to deal 2d8 radiant damage (+1d8 per spell level above 1st) on weapon hits, maxing at 5d8 (6d8 vs undead/fiends). Oath spells are always prepared and don't count against prepared limit. Paladins provide powerful auras to nearby allies starting at 6th level.
Key Spells
The most impactful spells on the Paladin list and why they matter.
| Spell | Level | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Bless | 1st | Add 1d4 to attacks and saves for 3 allies, excellent use of concentration |
| Shield of Faith | 1st | Bonus action to grant +2 AC to yourself or an ally, strong defensive buff |
| Find Steed | 2nd | Summon a permanent loyal mount with shared spells, no concentration needed |
| Aid | 2nd | Increase max HP for 3 targets for 8 hours, no concentration, great pre-combat buff |
| Lesser Restoration | 2nd | Remove disease or conditions like paralyzed/poisoned, essential utility |
| Aura of Vitality | 3rd | Heal 2d6 as a bonus action for 1 minute, incredible out-of-combat healing efficiency |
| Revivify | 3rd | Bring dead allies back within 1 minute, requires consumed 300gp diamond |
| Death Ward | 4th | Prevent next drop to 0 HP, last 8 hours with no concentration |
| Find Greater Steed | 4th (via Oath feature) | Summon powerful mount like griffon or pegasus, massive upgrade to Find Steed |
| Dispel Magic | 3rd | End magical effects, essential utility for handling enemy buffs and hazards |
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Burning all spell slots on Divine Smite early in the day - save some for key utility spells
Common Mistake
Not using Find Steed for shared spell buffs - your mount benefits from your aura and spells
Common Mistake
Forgetting oath spells are ALWAYS prepared - they don't count against your preparation limit
Common Mistake
Wasting concentration on Shield of Faith when Bless helps the entire party more
Common Mistake
Not using Lay on Hands for healing and saving slots for smites - LoH is extremely efficient
Common Mistake
Attempting to cast spells while wielding shield and weapon without War Caster or component pouch
DM Tips
DM Tip
Paladins have limited spell slots - encounters between rests tax their resources effectively
DM Tip
Divine Smite can be declared AFTER seeing the attack roll - critical hits become devastating
DM Tip
Find Greater Steed provides flying mounts - design vertical combat and aerial challenges
DM Tip
Paladin auras are extremely powerful for allies - enemies should target paladins first
DM Tip
Oath spell lists vary significantly by subclass - review player choices for power level
DM Tip
Revivify's diamond component should be tracked - control availability for resurrection balance
Sources & Further Reading
- Paladin Spells — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD spell list
- Paladin — D&D Beyond — Official class reference
- Paladin Spell List — RPGBOT — Spell ratings and analysis