California issues driver licenses to undocumented immigrants through AB 60

California's Assembly Bill 60, which took effect in 2015, allows you to obtain a driver license without proof of legal residency or a Social Security number. The state treats this license the same as any other — it is valid for driving, and you can use it at banks and other institutions that accept state-issued ID. The license itself does not indicate immigration status; it looks identical to licenses issued to citizens and documented residents.

The program exists because California's legislature determined that allowing undocumented immigrants to drive legally and carry identification reduces hit-and-run accidents, makes roads safer, and allows people to report crimes without fear. You do not need to be a citizen, have a visa, or have any particular immigration status to obtain one.

Key Takeaways

  • You must prove California residency with documents like a utility bill, lease, or bank statement — the same proof required of any applicant.
  • You need a valid passport or consular ID from your country of origin; a birth certificate alone is not sufficient.
  • You must pass a written test on traffic laws and a behind-the-wheel driving test, just like any other applicant.
  • The license costs the same as a standard California driver license and is renewed every five years.
  • You can explore at any DMV office; no special appointment or separate process is required.

Documents you need to bring to the DMV

Bring proof of California residency first. The DMV accepts a current utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank or credit card statement, or government check showing your name and a California address. The document must be dated within the last 62 days. If you do not have any of these, you can bring two documents from a longer list — for example, a library card and a school enrollment letter both count.

You also need proof of identity and date of birth. A valid passport from any country works. If you do not have a passport, a consular ID (matrícula consular) issued by your country's embassy or consulate is accepted. A birth certificate alone is not sufficient — the DMV requires a document with your photograph or one that has been certified by a government agency.

Bring your current California address in writing, even if it appears on your residency documents. If you have an existing California driver license or ID card, bring that too. The DMV will not ask about immigration status during this process.

The written and driving tests

You must pass the same written test on California traffic laws that any applicant takes. The test covers speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, and safe driving practices. You can take the test in English or Spanish; the DMV offers it in multiple languages. Study materials are free on the DMV website and in print at any DMV office.

After passing the written test, you will receive a learner's permit valid for 12 months. During this time, you must practice driving with a licensed driver in the car. You then schedule a behind-the-wheel driving test, where a DMV examiner watches you drive and evaluates your ability to control the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to hazards. This test is identical to the one given to all applicants.

If you fail either test, you can retake it. There is no limit on how many times you can attempt the written test, though you must wait one day between attempts. For the driving test, you can retake it after two weeks if you fail.

Fees and license validity

An AB 60 driver license costs the same as a standard California driver license. As of 2024, a five-year license costs $39 if you are under 62, or $30 if you are 62 or older. These fees may change; check the DMV website for current pricing. You pay when you explore.

Your license is valid for five years from the date of issue. You renew it the same way any California driver renews — by mail, online, or in person at a DMV office. When you renew, you do not need to retake the written or driving tests unless the DMV has reason to believe your driving ability has changed.

What happens if you are stopped by police

Your AB 60 license is a valid form of identification. If you are stopped for a traffic violation, present it to the officer. The license does not indicate your immigration status, and officers cannot use it to determine whether you are documented or undocumented. You have the right to remain silent and to refuse consent to a search of your vehicle or person.

If you are arrested, you have the right to contact a lawyer and to remain silent. Do not sign anything or answer questions about your immigration status without a lawyer present. Many organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union and local legal aid societies, offer free or low-cost legal help to immigrants in California.

Using your license for purposes beyond driving

California's AB 60 license can be used as identification at banks, airports, and other institutions that accept state-issued ID. However, some federal agencies and private companies have their own rules about which forms of ID they accept. A bank may accept your AB 60 license to open an account, but TSA (Transportation Security Administration) at airports does not accept it for domestic flights — you would need a passport or other federal ID.

When you present your license, the institution sees only that it is a valid California driver license. They do not see any notation about immigration status. If an institution refuses to accept it, ask to speak with a manager and explain that it is a state-issued ID. If the refusal continues, you can file a complaint with the California Department of Consumer Affairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an AB 60 license if I have been deported or have a deportation order?

The DMV does not ask about deportation status or immigration court proceedings. However, if you are in removal proceedings or have been ordered deported, obtaining a license creates a government record with your name and address. Consult with an immigration lawyer before explore, as this record could be used in immigration enforcement. Many legal aid organizations offer free consultations.

What if I do not have a passport or consular ID?

A passport or consular ID is required as proof of identity and date of birth. If you do not have either, contact your country's consulate or embassy to request a consular ID. Many countries issue these documents for a fee and can process them within weeks. The DMV cannot issue a license without one of these documents.

Can I use an AB 60 license to cross the border into Mexico or Canada?

No. An AB 60 license is not a travel document. To cross an international border, you need a valid passport. The license allows you to drive within California and the United States, but border agents will ask for a passport when you attempt to leave the country.

Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration case?

The license itself does not affect your immigration status. However, it does create a government record. If you are in removal proceedings or planning to file for any immigration benefit, speak with an immigration lawyer first. Some situations may make it safer to wait, while others may not be affected at all.

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

The DMV typically mails your license within two weeks of passing the driving test. You can request to pick it up in person at the DMV office instead, which is usually faster. Ask the examiner or staff member at the counter about same-day or next-day pickup options at your local office.