pay one's dues

verb2

1. •
   To outlay money which is owed as a membership fee or price of admission.

   • The carrier to Casterbridge came up as Edward stepped into the road, and jumped down from the van to pay toll. . . . The carrier paid his dues. — 1871
2. •
   To acquire status or to earn the right to enjoy certain benefits, especially through lengthy experience, hardship, or service to an organization.

   • Everybody wanna know / Why I'm singing the blues / Yes, I've been around a long time / People, I've paid my dues — 1969