California issues driver's licenses to people without legal immigration status through the AB 60 program

California allows people without legal immigration status to obtain a driver's license under a law called AB 60, which took effect in 2015. You do not need to prove citizenship or legal residency to get one. Instead, you prove your identity and California residency using documents that don't require immigration status — such as a passport from your home country, a consulate ID, or documents showing you live in California.

The license itself looks identical to a standard California driver's license, but it cannot be used as federal identification for boarding a plane or entering a federal building. It is valid only for driving and can be renewed every five years. The DMV does not report your immigration status to any other agency.

Key Takeaways

  • AB 60 allows you to get a California driver's license without proving citizenship or legal immigration status.
  • You must show identity documents from your home country and proof that you live in California, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • The license cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a plane, but it is valid for driving and insurance.
  • The DMV does not share your information with immigration authorities as part of the driver's license process.
  • You can renew your license every five years by mail or in person at a DMV office.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

To get an AB 60 license, you need two types of documents: proof of identity and proof of California residency. For identity, the DMV accepts a valid passport, a consulate ID card (matrícula consular), a national ID from your home country, or a birth certificate paired with another document that shows your name and date of birth.

For proof of residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and a California address. A utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail all work. If you do not have a document in your name, you can bring one in someone else's name plus a document showing you live at that address — for example, a lease in a family member's name plus a utility bill in yours.

You will also need to pass a written test on California traffic laws and a driving test, unless you already hold a valid driver's license from another state or country. Bring your Social Security number if you have one, but it is not required.

How the AB 60 process process works at the DMV

Go to a DMV office in person with your documents. You cannot start an AB 60 process online. At the office, tell the staff member you are explore under AB 60. They will check your documents, take your photo, and have you sign the process.

You will then take a written test on traffic laws and road signs. If you pass, you schedule a behind-the-wheel driving test at a later date. Once you pass the driving test, your license is issued. The whole process typically takes two to four weeks from your first visit to receiving your license in the mail.

If you fail the written or driving test, you can retake it. There is no limit to how many times you can test, though you may need to pay a fee each time you retake the test.

What happens to your information after you get the license

The DMV keeps your information in its database, but it does not automatically share it with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or other immigration agencies. However, immigration authorities can obtain DMV records through a legal process, such as a subpoena or warrant. This is rare in routine traffic stops, but it is possible.

If you are pulled over by police, your license will show you are a valid California driver. Police do not automatically know your immigration status from the license alone. If an officer asks about your immigration status directly, you have the right to remain silent and to speak to a lawyer before answering.

Your AB 60 license does not change your immigration status or create a path to legal status. It is a driving permit only.

Costs and renewal

An AB 60 driver's license costs the same as a standard California license. As of 2024, a new license costs around $39, though this amount can change. Renewal every five years costs less — typically around $24 — and can often be done by mail or online if you have not had any violations.

When you renew, you do not need to retake the written or driving test unless the DMV asks you to. You will need to bring updated proof of residency if you have moved.

Using your AB 60 license for insurance and other purposes

Most car insurance companies in California will insure you if you have an AB 60 license. Some insurers specifically market to AB 60 holders. You will need to show your license and proof of residency when you buy insurance, just as any driver would.

Your AB 60 license cannot be used to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal building, or explore for certain jobs that require federal background checks. It is valid only for driving a car, motorcycle, or truck on California roads. Some employers and landlords may accept it as proof of identity for other purposes, but you should check with them first.

What to do if you lose your license or it expires

If your license is lost or stolen, go to a DMV office and request a replacement. Bring your proof of residency and any remaining identity documents. A replacement license costs around $20 and is mailed to you within two weeks.

If your license expires, you can renew it by mail if you have not had any violations and your address has not changed. If you have moved or had violations, you must renew in person at a DMV office. Driving with an expired license is illegal, so renew before the expiration date on your card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration case?

Getting a driver's license does not change your immigration status or hurt your immigration case. However, if you are in removal proceedings or have an active immigration case, talk to your immigration lawyer before explore. In rare cases, information from the DMV can be used in immigration court, though this is not automatic.

Can I use my AB 60 license to cross the border into Mexico?

An AB 60 license is not a travel document and cannot be used to cross an international border. You will need a valid passport from your home country to travel to Mexico or any other country. Some people use a passport card or consulate ID for border crossings.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

You do not need a Social Security number to get an AB 60 license. If you have one, you can provide it, but it is optional. The DMV will issue your license without it.

Can I get an AB 60 license if I'm on a visa?

Yes. AB 60 is open to anyone without legal immigration status, but it is also open to people on certain visas who do not have a Social Security number or whose visa does not allow them to get a standard license. If you are on a visa, you can choose to get a standard license or an AB 60 license.

How long does it take to get my license after I pass the driving test?

Your license is mailed to you within two to four weeks after you pass the driving test. You can drive with a temporary paper license issued at the DMV while you wait for the plastic card to arrive in the mail.