California issues driver licenses to undocumented immigrants through a separate program

California allows undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver license through the AB 60 program, which launched in 2015. You do not need a Social Security number or proof of legal immigration status. The license is valid for driving purposes only — it cannot be used as federal identification for boarding a plane or entering a federal building, but it works for traffic stops, employment verification, and opening a bank account in most cases.

The process is the same as for any California driver license: you visit a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay the standard fees. The main difference is the documents you bring to prove your identity and California residency.

Key Takeaways

  • AB 60 licenses are issued by the California DMV to people without legal immigration status, and you do not need a Social Security number to get one.
  • You must prove your identity with a passport, consular ID, or other document from your country of origin, and prove California residency with utility bills, lease agreements, or tax returns.
  • The written and driving tests are the same as for any California license, and you can take the written test in multiple languages.
  • An AB 60 license is valid for driving and many everyday purposes, but cannot be used for federal identification like boarding a domestic flight.

Documents you need to bring to the DMV

You must bring proof of identity and proof of California residency. For identity, the DMV accepts a passport, a consular ID card (such as a Mexican matricula consular), a national ID from your country of origin, or a birth certificate paired with another document like a school record or medical record. The document must show your name, date of birth, and a photo if one is available.

For California residency, bring two documents from the past 12 months showing your name and a California address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, property tax bill, bank statement, insurance policy, school enrollment letter, or pay stub. A utility bill and a lease agreement together are the most straightforward combination.

Bring your current out-of-state driver license if you have one, or your AB 60 instruction permit if you are renewing. You will also need to pay the process and license fees, which are the same as for any California driver license — currently around $39 for the process and $35 for the license itself, though fees change periodically.

The written test and driving test

You must pass a written knowledge test covering California traffic laws and road signs. The test is offered in multiple languages including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Tagalog, and others. You can study using the California Driver Handbook, which is free and available online in multiple languages on the DMV website. Most people take the test at the DMV office after scheduling an appointment.

After passing the written test, you receive an instruction permit that allows you to practice driving with a licensed driver in the car. You then schedule a separate appointment for the driving test, where a DMV examiner rides with you and evaluates your ability to handle the vehicle safely, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions. The driving test typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes.

How to schedule your DMV appointment

You can schedule an appointment online through the California DMV website (dmv.ca.gov) or by calling 1-800-777-0133. Online scheduling is usually faster. You will need to select your local DMV office, choose the service "Original Driver License," and pick an available date and time. Appointments typically fill up weeks in advance, especially in busy areas, so schedule as early as possible.

If you cannot find an appointment online, some DMV offices accept walk-ins for certain services, but wait times can be several hours. Calling ahead to ask about walk-in availability at your local office can save you a trip. Bring all your documents in originals — do not bring copies unless the DMV specifically requests them.

What happens after you pass the driving test

Once you pass the driving test, the DMV issues your AB 60 driver license on the spot or mails it to you within a few weeks, depending on the office. The license is valid for five years. It looks like a standard California driver license but may have different markings or a different color to distinguish it from federal-compliant licenses.

Your AB 60 license allows you to drive legally in California and is recognized by law enforcement during traffic stops. You can use it to open a bank account, rent an apartment, or prove your identity for many everyday purposes. However, it cannot be used to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal building, or serve as federal identification. If you need federal identification, you would need to explore other options with an immigration attorney.

Renewing your AB 60 license

You can renew your AB 60 license before it expires by visiting the DMV again with proof of residency and your current license. You do not need to retake the written and driving tests unless the DMV requires it based on your age or other factors. Renewal appointments are usually easier to schedule than original license appointments because fewer people need them.

You can also renew online or by mail if your license is not suspended and you meet certain other conditions. Check the DMV website for the current renewal options and fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an AB 60 license to fly on a domestic flight?

No. An AB 60 license is not federal-compliant and cannot be used for federal identification purposes like boarding a domestic airplane. You would need a passport from your country of origin or another federally accepted document. Some airlines may accept a passport or consular ID instead.

What if I don't have a passport or consular ID?

The DMV accepts other identity documents from your country of origin, including a national ID card, birth certificate paired with a school record or medical record, or a voter registration card. Contact your local DMV office or visit dmv.ca.gov to confirm which documents they will accept in your situation.

Do I have to take the written test in English?

No. The California DMV offers the written test in multiple languages. You can request your preferred language when you schedule your appointment or when you arrive at the DMV office. The driving test is conducted in English, but the examiner will speak clearly and can repeat instructions.

How long does it take to get my AB 60 license after I pass the test?

The DMV usually issues your license on the same day you pass the driving test, or mails it within a few weeks. Ask the DMV staff when you finish your test whether your license will be issued when ready or mailed. If it is mailed, you will receive a temporary license document that you can use while you wait.

Can I use my AB 60 license to work?

Yes. Many employers accept an AB 60 license as proof of identity and California residency for employment purposes. However, some employers or industries may have specific requirements. Check with your employer about their identification policy.