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 prove citizenship or legal residency to obtain one. Instead, you show proof of identity, California residency, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

The AB 60 license looks and functions like a standard California driver's license, except it carries a marking that indicates it was issued under AB 60. You can use it to drive legally in California, and it is accepted as identification for many everyday purposes — banking, opening accounts, boarding domestic flights, and entering federal buildings.

The process takes the same steps as any other California license: you pass a written test, a vision test, and a driving test. The main difference is the documents you bring to prove who you are and where you live.

Key Takeaways

  • California issues AB 60 driver's licenses to people without legal immigration status, and you do not need to prove citizenship or legal residency.
  • You must show proof of identity (a passport, consular ID, or other government-issued document from your country of origin), proof of California residency, and either a Social Security number or an ITIN.
  • The AB 60 license is marked differently from a standard license but allows you to drive legally in California and serves as identification for most everyday purposes.
  • You take the same written, vision, and driving tests as anyone else, and the Department of Motor Vehicles does not share immigration information with federal authorities.

What documents you need to bring

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires specific documents to issue an AB 60 license. You must bring proof of identity, proof of California residency, and proof of your tax identification number.

For proof of identity, the DMV accepts a foreign passport, a consular identification card (such as a Mexican matricula consular), a national ID card from your country of origin, or a birth certificate paired with another document that shows your name and date of birth. The document must be current or expired no more than five years ago.

For proof of California residency, bring two documents that show your name and a California address. These can include a utility bill, lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, vehicle registration, or a letter from a government agency. The documents must be dated within the last 60 days.

For tax identification, bring either your Social Security card or a letter from the IRS showing your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you do not have either, you can explore for an ITIN through the IRS before you visit the DMV.

The written test, vision test, and driving test

You take the same three tests required of all California drivers. The written test covers California traffic laws and safe driving practices. You can take it in English or one of several other languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, and Tagalog. You need to answer at least 15 of 36 questions correctly to pass.

The vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. You read letters on a chart from a set distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you.

The driving test takes place on local roads near the DMV office. A DMV examiner sits in your vehicle while you drive and evaluate your ability to control the car, follow traffic laws, and respond to other drivers and pedestrians. You must pass all three tests to receive your license.

How the DMV protects your information

The DMV does not share immigration information with federal immigration authorities. California law prohibits the DMV from disclosing your immigration status to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or other federal agencies unless they present a valid judicial warrant — a court order signed by a judge, not just a request from an agency.

Your DMV records are separate from any immigration case or file. Getting an AB 60 license does not trigger any immigration investigation or alert. The DMV's role is to issue licenses to people who meet California's driving requirements; immigration enforcement is handled by different agencies through different processes.

That said, you should understand that immigration enforcement can occur in other contexts — traffic stops, workplace raids, or other interactions with law enforcement. An AB 60 license itself does not protect you from immigration enforcement, but it does allow you to drive legally within California without fear that the DMV will report you.

Where to go and how to schedule an appointment

You visit your local DMV office to explore for an AB 60 license. California has DMV locations in most cities and towns. You can find the nearest office and check its hours on the DMV website at dmv.ca.gov.

You should schedule an appointment before you go. Walk-ins are accepted at some offices, but appointment wait times are usually shorter. You can book an appointment online through the DMV website or by calling 1-800-777-0133. When you schedule, select "REAL ID/AB 60 Driver License" as your transaction type.

Bring all required documents with you, including your proof of identity, proof of residency, and tax identification. Arrive a few minutes early. The entire process — paperwork, tests, and photo — usually takes one to two hours.

What happens after you pass the tests

Once you pass all three tests, the DMV issues your AB 60 license on the spot or mails it to you within one to two weeks, depending on the office. Your license is valid for five years from the date of issue. You can renew it by visiting the DMV again before it expires, using the same documents and process.

Your AB 60 license allows you to drive legally throughout California. It is also accepted as identification for opening a bank account, obtaining a library card, boarding a domestic flight, and entering federal buildings. Some private businesses may ask for additional identification, but the AB 60 license is a valid government-issued ID.

If you move out of California or your immigration status changes, you can update your license or transfer it to another state's system. The rules vary by state, so contact the DMV in your new state for details.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can use an AB 60 license for domestic flights within the United States. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) accepts it as valid identification. You cannot use it for international flights or to enter other countries, but it works for travel within the U.S.

Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration case?

No. Getting a driver's license does not affect any pending immigration case or process. The DMV does not share information with immigration courts or the immigration agency. However, you should discuss any legal documents you sign — including your DMV process — with an immigration attorney if you have an active case.

What if I fail the written or driving test?

You can retake the test. Most DMV offices allow you to schedule another appointment within a few days. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, though you must pay the fee each time you test.

Do I need car insurance to get an AB 60 license?

No, you do not need insurance to obtain the license. However, California law requires all drivers to carry auto insurance before driving on public roads. You must have insurance before you drive, even with a valid license.

Can I get an AB 60 license if I have a criminal record?

Most criminal records do not disqualify you from getting a driver's license. The DMV denies licenses only for specific reasons, such as certain serious driving-related convictions or if you are required to surrender your license as part of a court sentence. If you have questions about your specific situation, contact your local DMV office.