You must register with the State Bar in the Applicant Portal. Law students must register within 90 days of beginning the study of law.I'm curious if anyone has taken both California and New York in the same year? Is it worth it to do so when the information is fresh in your head? Join the BCBA Today! Bar Exam Admissions. Ultimately, if you want to live in NY, I would look up the process to transfer to their state. If you want to practice in California you must pass the California bar and be admitted there. All applicants must file an application questionnaire, with supporting documentation. Only complete applications will be accepted for filing.