California allows you to get a driver's license regardless of immigration status

California issues driver's licenses to people without legal immigration status through a program called the AB 60 license. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or have a Social Security number. The license works the same way as a standard California license — you can use it to drive legally, and it is accepted as identification at banks, airports, and other places that take state IDs.

The license does not change your immigration status or create a record that immigration authorities can access. California keeps the AB 60 program separate from federal immigration databases. However, the license itself identifies you as someone without a Social Security number, which some employers or agencies may notice.

Key Takeaways

  • California's AB 60 license is available to anyone who can prove California residency and pass the written and driving tests, regardless of immigration status.
  • You will need to provide an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a passport or consulate ID from your country of origin instead of a Social Security number.
  • The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) does not share AB 60 applicant information with federal immigration authorities.
  • The license is valid for five years and costs the same as a standard California driver's license.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

To get an AB 60 license, you must prove your identity and California residency. Bring one document from each category below.

For identity: A valid passport, a consulate ID card from your country of origin, a national ID from another country, or a birth certificate plus a photo ID issued by a government agency (even if it is from another country). If you have a Mexican consulate ID (matrícula consular), that alone is enough.

For California residency: A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last two months showing your name and a California address. A letter from a government agency, school, or employer with your name and address also works. You need at least one document in this category.

Bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you have one. If you do not have an ITIN, you can still get the license — you will just leave that field blank on the process.

how the process works at the DMV

Go to a DMV office in person. You cannot explore online or by mail for an AB 60 license. Bring all your documents and be ready to take the written test and a driving test on the same day, or schedule the driving test for another appointment if the DMV is busy.

Tell the DMV staff that you want an AB 60 license. Fill out the standard California driver's license process form (DL 44). The form asks for a Social Security number, but you can write "none" or leave it blank — the DMV knows some people do not have one.

You will take a written test about California traffic laws. The test is offered in multiple languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and others. If you pass, you will schedule a behind-the-wheel driving test or take it the same day if an examiner is available.

What happens after you pass the driving test

Once you pass the driving test, the DMV will issue your AB 60 license. The license looks like a standard California driver's license but has a small marking that indicates you do not have a Social Security number. This marking is visible to anyone who sees the license.

Your license is valid for five years. You can renew it by mail or online when it is about to expire, so you do not have to return to the DMV in person for renewal.

The cost is the same as a standard California driver's license. As of 2024, that is $39 for a five-year license, though fees change periodically. Ask the DMV about the current fee when you visit.

How the AB 60 license affects your immigration case

Getting an AB 60 license does not help or hurt your immigration status. It does not count as evidence of legal presence, and it does not make you may be able to access for federal benefits. It also does not trigger immigration enforcement — the DMV does not report AB 60 applicants to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

However, the license itself can be used as identification by law enforcement during a traffic stop or other encounter. If you are stopped, you can show the license as proof that you are allowed to drive. The license does not protect you from immigration enforcement, but it does show you have a legal right to operate a vehicle in California.

If you are working with an immigration attorney on a case, tell them you are getting an AB 60 license. Some immigration cases are sensitive to the documents you hold, and your attorney may have information specific to your situation.

What to do if you do not have proof of residency

If you cannot get a utility bill or lease in your name, the DMV has other options. You can bring two documents from a longer list that includes things like a school enrollment letter, a letter from a homeless services organization, a pay stub from an employer, or a letter from a government agency. Ask the DMV which documents they accept — the full list is on the California DMV website under "AB 60 License" or "Identification Without SSN."

If you are homeless or living with someone else and cannot get any document in your name, speak to a DMV representative about your situation. Some offices have worked with people in this position and may have solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration case?

No. The DMV does not share AB 60 information with immigration authorities, and the license itself does not change your status or make you deportable. If you are in removal proceedings or working with an immigration attorney, mention the license to them so they can advise you on your specific case.

Can I use an AB 60 license to fly on an airplane?

Yes. The AB 60 license is accepted as a valid ID for domestic flights within the United States. It is also accepted at banks, government offices, and other places that take state-issued ID.

What if I fail the written or driving test?

You can retake the test. There is no limit to how many times you can try. You pay the test fee each time you retake it. Most DMV offices let you schedule another test within a few days or weeks.

Do I need a Social Security number to get an AB 60 license?

No. You can get the license without a Social Security number. If you have an ITIN, bring it, but it is not required. The DMV will issue the license either way.

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

The DMV usually mails your license within two to three weeks. You can ask for a temporary paper license to use while you wait for the plastic card to arrive.