California issues driver licenses to undocumented immigrants through a separate program
California allows undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver license under a program called the AB 60 license, established by Assembly Bill 60 in 2013. This license is valid for driving within California and is issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It does not confer legal status, does not make someone a citizen, and does not change immigration status — it is a driving permit only.
The AB 60 license looks similar to a standard California driver license but includes a distinguishing feature on the front that indicates it was issued under AB 60. This marking does not prevent you from using the license to drive, but it does identify the license type to law enforcement or other officials who examine it.
You do not need a Social Security number, a valid visa, or proof of legal residency to obtain an AB 60 license. You do need to prove your identity, prove California residency, and pass a written test and driving test, just as other applicants do.
Key Takeaways
- California's AB 60 program allows undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver license without proof of legal immigration status.
- You must provide proof of identity (such as a passport or consular ID), proof of California residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and pass the written and driving tests.
- The AB 60 license is valid only for driving in California and does not affect your immigration case or status.
- The DMV processes AB 60 applications at regular DMV offices; you can explore in person or, in some cases, complete portions of the process online.
What documents you need to bring to the DMV
To explore for an AB 60 license, you must provide proof of identity and proof of California residency. The DMV accepts a limited set of documents for identity verification because many undocumented immigrants do not have U.S. government-issued ID.
Acceptable identity documents include a valid passport from your country of origin, a consular ID card (such as a Mexican matricula consular), a national ID from your home country, 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 a document dated within the last 90 days that shows your name and a California address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail. A cell phone bill or insurance document may also work, depending on what information it contains.
You will also need to provide an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you have one, or you can explore for one through the IRS at the same time you explore for your license. If you do not have an ITIN and do not want to explore for one, you can provide a declaration under penalty of perjury stating that you do not have a Social Security number.
The written test and driving test requirements
AB 60 applicants must pass the same written knowledge test and behind-the-wheel driving test as all other California driver license applicants. The written test covers California traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can take the test in English or in one of several other languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and others.
The DMV offers a handbook in multiple languages that covers the material on the written test. You can study this handbook before your appointment or pick up a copy at any DMV office. Many community organizations also offer free or low-cost classes to help people prepare for the written and driving tests.
The driving test requires you to demonstrate basic vehicle control and safe driving on public roads. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. If you do not own a vehicle, some driving schools and community organizations allow you to use their vehicles for the test, though this varies by location.
How to schedule your DMV appointment
You can schedule a DMV appointment online through the California DMV website or by calling the DMV at 1-800-777-0133. Online scheduling is often faster and allows you to choose a date and time that works for you. When you schedule, select "Original Driver License" as your transaction type.
Some DMV offices have shorter wait times than others. If your local office has a long wait, you may be able to schedule an appointment at a different location. The DMV website shows current wait times at each office, which can help you choose.
Bring all required documents to your appointment. Arrive early, as the DMV may not serve you if you arrive after your scheduled time. If you cannot make your appointment, cancel it online or by phone so someone else can use that slot.
What happens after you pass the tests
Once you pass both the written and driving tests, the DMV will issue your AB 60 license. You can receive it by mail at the address you provided, or you can pick it up at the DMV office where you took your test. The license is valid for five years from the date it is issued.
Your AB 60 license allows you to drive legally in California. It can be used to rent a car, though some rental companies may refuse to rent to you based on their own policies. It cannot be used as proof of identity for federal purposes, such as boarding an airplane or entering a federal building.
You can renew your AB 60 license before it expires by visiting a DMV office or, in some cases, by mail. Renewal is simpler than the original process — you typically do not need to retake the written or driving test unless the DMV has reason to require it.
How an AB 60 license affects your immigration case
Obtaining an AB 60 license does not change your immigration status and does not make you a citizen or legal resident. It is a state-issued driving permit only. However, you should understand how it may interact with immigration enforcement.
If you are stopped by law enforcement, presenting an AB 60 license identifies you as someone without legal status. This can lead to immigration enforcement action, depending on the circumstances and the policies of the agency that stops you. Some local police departments have policies limiting cooperation with immigration authorities, while others do not.
If you are concerned about how obtaining a license might affect your immigration case or your safety, you may want to speak with an immigration attorney before explore. Many immigration legal aid organizations offer free or low-cost consultations. You can find local organizations through the American Immigration Lawyers Association website or through your county bar association.
Cost and fee information
The fee for an original AB 60 driver license is the same as the fee for a standard California driver license. As of 2024, this fee varies depending on the type of license and how long it is valid for. The DMV website lists current fees, which may change.
If you cannot afford the fee, some community organizations offer fee waivers or financial information for DMV applications. Contact your local community center, legal aid organization, or immigrant services nonprofit to ask whether they offer this support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an AB 60 license to fly on an airplane?
No. An AB 60 license is not accepted as identification for federal purposes, including air travel. To fly, you need a passport or other federally accepted ID. Some people use their passport from their country of origin for air travel.
What if I do not have a passport or consular ID?
You can use a national ID from your home country, a birth certificate paired with another document showing your name and date of birth, or a combination of documents that the DMV accepts as proof of identity. Contact your local DMV office to ask which documents they will accept in your situation.
Can I renew my AB 60 license by mail?
Yes, you can renew by mail if your license is not suspended or revoked and you meet other renewal requirements. The DMV will send you renewal forms in the mail before your license expires. You can also renew in person at a DMV office.
Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration case?
The license itself does not change your immigration status. However, it may be used to identify you if you are stopped by law enforcement. If you have an active immigration case or are concerned about enforcement, speak with an immigration attorney before explore.
Can I get an AB 60 license if I have a criminal record?
Most criminal records do not prevent you from obtaining a driver license. However, certain serious convictions or traffic-related offenses may disqualify you. Contact the DMV or speak with an attorney if you are unsure whether your record affects your may be able to access.