How to Get a California Driver License Without Proof of Legal Status

California issues driver licenses to people regardless of immigration status, but the process and the document you receive differ from a standard license

California allows you to obtain a driver license even if you do not have proof of legal immigration status in the United States. The state does not require a Social Security number or lawful presence documentation. However, the license you receive will be marked as an AB 60 license — named after the 2013 law that created this option — and it functions differently than a standard California driver license in some important ways.

The AB 60 license is valid for driving within California and can be used to open a bank account or board a domestic flight. It cannot be used to board an international flight, enter federal buildings that require Real ID, or cross the U.S. border. If you need to travel internationally or access federal facilities, you will need a passport or other federal travel document from your country of origin.

Key Takeaways

California issues AB 60 driver licenses to people without proof of legal immigration status, and the process process is the same as for a standard license except for the documents you bring.
You do not need a Social Security number, but you must prove your identity and California residency with documents the DMV accepts.
An AB 60 license is marked differently on the front and cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding international flights or entering federal buildings that require Real ID.
The license is valid for driving in California and for some civilian purposes like opening a bank account or boarding domestic flights.

Documents you need to bring to the DMV

The California Department of Motor Vehicles accepts a specific list of documents to prove your identity and residency. You do not need a Social Security number, but you must bring two forms of identification that show your name, and at least one document that proves you live in California.

For identity, the DMV accepts a foreign passport, a consular ID card (matrícula consular), a birth certificate with a government-issued photo ID, or a foreign driver license. For proof of residency, you can use a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail with your name and address — the document must be dated within the last 60 days. Bring originals or certified copies; photocopies are not accepted.

You will also need to pass the written test on California traffic laws and the vision test. These are the same tests required for any California driver license. You can study using the California Driver Handbook, which is available free online at the DMV website and in multiple languages.

The process process at the DMV

Visit your local DMV office in person — you cannot complete an AB 60 process online or by mail. Bring your identity documents, proof of residency, and your completed DL 44 form (the standard driver license process). You can read and fill out the DL 44 before you go, or fill it out at the DMV.

Tell the DMV staff that you are explore under AB 60. They will process your process the same way as a standard license process. You will take the written test and vision test at the DMV office. If you pass both tests, you will pay the license fee — currently $39 for a four-year license or $64 for an eight-year license, though fees may change — and your license will be issued.

Processing time is typically two to three weeks. You will receive your license by mail at the address you provided on your process. Some DMV offices offer an optional faster service for an additional fee, but it is not required.

How an AB 60 license differs from a standard California license

An AB 60 license looks similar to a standard California driver license, but it is marked differently. The front of the card displays text indicating it is an AB 60 license and that it is not acceptable for federal purposes. The license number and expiration date function the same way as a standard license.

The main practical difference is where you can use it. An AB 60 license is valid for driving in California and for opening a bank account, obtaining credit, or boarding a domestic flight within the United States. It is not valid for boarding an international flight, entering a federal building that requires Real ID (such as a federal courthouse or military base), or crossing the U.S. border.

If you need to travel internationally or access federal facilities, you will need to obtain a passport or travel document from your country of origin. Many consulates in California issue passports and can help you with the process.

Renewing your AB 60 license

You can renew your AB 60 license by mail or online through the DMV website, the same way you would renew a standard license. You do not need to visit the DMV office in person unless the DMV requests additional documents or you want to update your photo.

Your renewal notice will be mailed to you about 60 days before your license expires. Follow the instructions on the notice to renew online, by mail, or in person. The renewal fee is the same as the original license fee. If you renew online or by mail, your new license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks.

What happens if you are stopped by law enforcement

An AB 60 license is a valid California driver license for the purpose of driving. If you are stopped by local law enforcement for a traffic violation, your AB 60 license satisfies the requirement to show proof of a valid driver license. Local police do not have the authority to enforce federal immigration law, and presenting your AB 60 license does not trigger an immigration investigation.

However, if you are stopped by federal immigration enforcement (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE), your AB 60 license will not protect you from immigration enforcement actions. California law prohibits state and local police from cooperating with ICE in most circumstances, but federal agents operate under different rules. If you are concerned about immigration enforcement, organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and local immigrant rights groups offer resources on your rights during police stops and immigration encounters.

Getting a Real ID-compliant license if you have legal status

If your immigration status changes and you later obtain proof of lawful presence in the United States, you can explore for a standard California Real ID-compliant driver license. You would need to visit the DMV with your new documentation — such as a work permit, green card, or visa — and explore for a new license. The process is the same as a first-time process, and you would pay the standard license fee.

You do not need to surrender your AB 60 license; it will straightforward expire on its scheduled date. Your new Real ID-compliant license will be marked differently and will be valid for federal purposes like boarding international flights and entering federal buildings.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. California does not require a Social Security number for an AB 60 license. If you have one, you can provide it, but it is not necessary. The DMV will issue your license without it.

Can I use an AB 60 license to board an international flight?

No. An AB 60 license is not acceptable for international travel. You will need a passport or travel document from your country of origin. Many consulates in California can issue passports and can advise you on the process and documents required.

Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration case or status?

Obtaining a driver license is a state matter, not a federal immigration matter. However, if you are in removal proceedings or have a pending immigration case, you should consult with an immigration attorney before explore. Some immigration situations may have complications that an attorney can help you understand.

What if I do not have a birth certificate or passport?

The DMV accepts other forms of identity, including a consular ID card (matrícula consular) issued by your country's consulate, a foreign driver license, or a combination of documents that together establish your identity. Contact your local DMV office or visit the DMV website to see the full list of acceptable documents for your situation.

Can I renew my AB 60 license by mail or online?

Yes. You can renew your AB 60 license online or by mail using the same process as a standard license renewal. You only need to visit the DMV in person if the DMV requests additional documents or if you want to update your photo.

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.