CA Bar accepts applicants with foreign licenses. You do not need a JD or LLM.In California, a foreign lawyer must complete an additional 20 credits of study in an LL.M. Program, including instruction in bar-tested subjects. Must have a foreign law degree which may have either its durational or its substantial deficiency. Most states do require a J.D. degree for a US law school in order to sit for the bar exam. Learn everything you need to know about applying for the U.S. Bar Exam as a foreign student or attorney: requirements, eligibility, and more.