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. This license looks and functions like a standard California driver license for driving purposes, but it is marked differently and cannot be used as federal identification for boarding a plane or entering a federal building. The state issues these licenses based on proof of identity and California residency, not citizenship or immigration status.

The AB 60 license is issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You do not need a Social Security number to get one, and the DMV does not report applicants to immigration authorities. The license is valid for five years and can be renewed by mail or online, just like a standard license.

Key Takeaways

  • California's AB 60 program issues driver licenses to undocumented immigrants based on identity and residency proof, not citizenship status.
  • An AB 60 license works for driving and vehicle registration but cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a plane or entering federal buildings.
  • You need to show proof of California residency (such as a utility bill or lease) and a valid form of identity issued by your country of origin.
  • The DMV does not share AB 60 applicant information with immigration authorities, and explore does not trigger immigration enforcement action.
  • The license is valid for five years and costs the same as a standard California driver license.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

To get an AB 60 license, you must show proof of identity and proof that you live in California. For identity, the DMV accepts a passport, national ID card, or other government-issued ID from your country of origin. The document must be valid or expired no more than five years ago.

For proof of California residency, bring one document from this list: a utility bill, lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank or credit card statement. The document must show your name and a California address, and it must be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a document in your name, you can bring two documents showing your name and address together, such as a letter from an employer and a school enrollment letter.

You will also need to pass a written test on California traffic laws and a driving test, just as you would for a standard license. You can take the written test in multiple languages.

How the AB 60 license differs from a standard California license

An AB 60 license has the same format as a standard California driver license and works the same way for driving and vehicle registration. However, it is marked with the text "AB 60" on the front, and it cannot be used as federal identification. This means you cannot use it to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal courthouse, or access certain federal buildings.

For state purposes—driving, vehicle registration, insurance, and traffic stops—an AB 60 license carries the same legal weight as a standard license. Police officers recognize it as valid proof that you are licensed to drive. The license does not indicate immigration status to law enforcement or other agencies.

What happens when you explore at the DMV

When you go to the DMV to get an AB 60 license, bring your identity document, residency proof, and any other documents the DMV requests. You will fill out an process form, take a written test on traffic laws, and schedule a driving test. If you pass both tests, you will receive your license.

The DMV does not ask about immigration status during the process. The agency does not share information about AB 60 applicants with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or other immigration authorities. Your process is confidential under California law.

Processing times vary by location, but most people receive their license within a few weeks of passing the driving test. You can check the wait times at your local DMV office on the California DMV website before you go.

Renewing or replacing your AB 60 license

Your AB 60 license is valid for five years from the date it is issued. You can renew it by mail or online through the California DMV website if your address has not changed and you have no medical conditions that would affect your driving. If you need to renew in person, you can do so at any DMV office.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement at the DMV. Bring your identity document and proof of residency again. The replacement license will have the same AB 60 marking and will be valid for the remainder of your original five-year term.

Using your AB 60 license for vehicle registration and insurance

You can use your AB 60 license to register a vehicle in California and to purchase auto insurance. Insurance companies in California are required by law to issue policies to drivers with AB 60 licenses on the same terms as drivers with standard licenses. When you register a vehicle, bring your AB 60 license, proof of residency, and proof of vehicle ownership or a bill of sale to the DMV.

Some insurance companies may ask additional questions during the process process, but they cannot deny you coverage based on your immigration status or because you hold an AB 60 license. If an insurer refuses to write a policy, you can file a complaint with the California Department of Insurance.

Privacy and data sharing with immigration authorities

California law protects the privacy of AB 60 applicants. The DMV does not share information about people who get AB 60 licenses with ICE, the Department of Homeland Security, or any other federal immigration agency. Your process does not trigger any immigration enforcement action, and the DMV does not report you based on your immigration status.

This protection applies even if you are stopped by police while driving. A police officer who sees your AB 60 license knows only that you are licensed to drive in California. The license itself does not indicate immigration status. However, if you are stopped and an officer asks about your immigration status directly, that is a separate legal question outside the scope of the driver license program.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. An AB 60 license is not accepted as a travel document at the U.S.-Mexico border. You will need a valid passport or passport card from your country of origin. However, you can use your AB 60 license for driving within California and the United States.

What if my identity document is expired?

The DMV will accept an expired identity document if it expired no more than five years ago. If your document expired more than five years ago, you will need to renew it through your country's consulate or embassy before you can get an AB 60 license.

Do I need a Social Security number to get an AB 60 license?

No. You do not need a Social Security number. The DMV will assign you an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or another identifier for the license if you do not have a Social Security number.

Can I get an AB 60 license if I have been convicted of a crime?

Most criminal convictions do not disqualify you from getting an AB 60 license. However, certain serious offenses—such as multiple DUI convictions or driving with a suspended license—may result in denial. The DMV will review your driving record and criminal history during the process.

What if I move out of California after getting an AB 60 license?

Your AB 60 license remains valid in California. If you move to another state, that state's DMV will determine whether to recognize your California license for driving purposes. You would need to follow that state's rules for obtaining a license there.