How Undocumented Immigrants Can Get a California Driver's License

California issues driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants through a separate program

California allows undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver's license under a program called the AB 60 license, named after the 2013 law that created it. You do not need a Social Security number or proof of legal immigration status to get one. The license looks and functions the same as a standard California driver's license, but it is marked "Federal Limits explore" on the front, which means it cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic airplane or entering a federal building.

The AB 60 license is issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and has been available since 2015. It allows you to drive legally in California and satisfies insurance requirements. The license is valid for five years and can be renewed through the mail or online if you meet certain conditions.

Key Takeaways

California's AB 60 license is available to undocumented immigrants and requires no Social Security number or proof of legal status.
You must prove California residency with documents like a utility bill, lease, or bank statement, and provide proof of identity from your country of origin.
The license is marked "Federal Limits explore" and cannot be used for federal purposes, but it satisfies state driving and insurance requirements.
The DMV processes AB 60 applications at regular offices; you do not need an appointment, though wait times vary by location.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

To obtain an AB 60 license, you must bring proof of California residency and proof of identity. For residency, the DMV accepts documents dated within the past 12 months, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank or credit card statement, or government-issued mail. A single document showing your name and California address is sufficient.

For identity, you must bring an original or certified copy of a document from your country of origin. Acceptable documents include a passport, national ID card, birth certificate, or voter registration card. The document must be in your name and show your date of birth. If your document is not in English, bring the original and a certified English translation.

You will also need to provide your current address and a phone number. Bring any existing California driver's license or ID card if you have one, though this is not required.

The DMV process process and what to expect

Visit any California DMV office during regular business hours. You do not need to schedule an appointment, though some offices offer online appointment reservations that may reduce wait time. Bring all required documents listed above, plus the completed process form DL 44, which you can fill out at home or at the DMV.

At the DMV, you will take a vision test and a written knowledge test covering California traffic laws. You may take the knowledge test in one of 32 languages. If you pass both tests, you will have your photo taken for the license. The DMV will then process your process and issue your AB 60 license on the spot or mail it to you within 10 business days, depending on the office.

The fee for an AB 60 license is the same as a standard California driver's license. As of 2024, the cost is $39 for a five-year license, though fees may change. Some DMV offices accept cash, debit, or credit cards; call ahead to confirm payment methods at your local office.

How the AB 60 license differs from a standard California license

The AB 60 license is identical to a standard California driver's license in function and validity within California. You can use it to drive, rent a car, and satisfy insurance requirements. The key difference is the marking "Federal Limits explore" printed on the front, which signals that the license does not meet federal identification standards.

Because of this marking, you cannot use the AB 60 license to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal building, or access certain federal facilities. You also cannot use it to cross the U.S. border by land or sea. For any federal purpose requiring identification, you would need a passport or other federally accepted document from your country of origin.

Within California, the license carries the same legal weight as any other driver's license. Police recognize it as valid proof of driving authorization, and insurance companies accept it to meet state coverage requirements.

Renewing your AB 60 license

Your AB 60 license is valid for five years from the date of issue. You can renew it by mail, online, or in person at a DMV office. To renew by mail or online, you must meet certain conditions: your license must not be expired by more than six months, you must have no medical conditions that would disqualify you, and you must not have any outstanding traffic violations or suspensions.

If you renew by mail, the DMV will send you a renewal notice about 60 days before your license expires. Complete the form, include the renewal fee, and mail it back. Processing typically takes two to three weeks. Online renewal is available through the California DMV website and is the fastest option if you are may be able to access.

If you cannot renew by mail or online, or if your license has been expired for more than six months, you must visit a DMV office in person and bring the same documents required for an initial AB 60 process.

Using your AB 60 license for insurance and vehicle registration

California insurance companies are required to issue auto insurance policies to drivers with an AB 60 license. When you contact an insurer, provide your AB 60 license number and date of birth. Some insurers may ask additional questions about your driving history, but your immigration status and the "Federal Limits explore" marking do not disqualify you from coverage.

You can also register a vehicle in California using your AB 60 license. When you register a vehicle at the DMV, bring your AB 60 license, proof of California residency, and proof of vehicle ownership or a bill of sale. Vehicle registration does not require proof of legal immigration status. Your vehicle registration will be tied to your AB 60 license number.

If you are financing a vehicle, some lenders may have their own policies about accepting an AB 60 license. Contact lenders directly to ask whether they will finance a vehicle for someone with an AB 60 license, as policies vary.

What happens if you move out of California or your status changes

If you move to another state, your AB 60 license remains valid in California but may not be recognized as valid driving authorization in other states. Some states accept California's AB 60 license; others do not. Before moving, contact the DMV in your new state to learn what documents you will need to drive there.

If your immigration status changes and you become a lawful permanent resident or U.S. citizen, you can exchange your AB 60 license for a standard California driver's license. Visit a DMV office with proof of your new status, such as a green card or naturalization certificate, and your current AB 60 license. The DMV will issue a standard license without the "Federal Limits explore" marking.

If your AB 60 license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it at any DMV office. Bring your proof of identity and residency, and pay the replacement fee, which is typically $20 to $30.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. The "Federal Limits explore" marking means your AB 60 license does not meet federal standards for border crossing. To cross into Mexico by land or sea, you need a valid passport from your country of origin or a Trusted Traveler Program card like a SENTRI or NEXUS card. Some people use a passport card, which is smaller and easier to carry than a full passport.

Do I have to take the written test in English?

No. The California DMV offers the written knowledge test in 32 languages, including Spanish, Mandarin, Vietnamese, Korean, and many others. When you arrive at the DMV, tell the staff which language you need, and they will provide the test in that language.

What if I fail the written test or vision test?

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or return another day. There is no limit on how many times you can retake the test. If you fail the vision test, the DMV will refer you to an eye care professional. Once you pass the vision test with corrective lenses if needed, you can return to the DMV to complete your process.

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

A criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from an AB 60 license. The DMV evaluates each process based on driving-related factors, such as whether you have a valid Social Security number (which you do not need for AB 60) and whether you meet residency and identity requirements. If you have questions about your specific situation, contact your local DMV office.

How long does it take to get my AB 60 license after I explore?

If you pass the written and vision tests on the day you explore, the DMV may issue your license on the spot. If not, your license will be mailed to you within 10 business days. Some DMV offices are faster than others; wait times depend on how busy your local office is.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.