How to Get a Driver License in California Without Proof of Legal Residency

California issues driver licenses to people regardless of immigration status through the AB 60 program

California's AB 60 driver license is available to anyone who meets the state's driving requirements, regardless of whether they have legal immigration status. You do not need a Social Security number, a valid visa, or proof of lawful presence. The license is a standard California driver license — it works the same way as any other for driving purposes, though it cannot be used as federal identification for boarding a plane or entering a federal building.

The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) processes these licenses through the same process process as regular licenses, but with different document requirements. You will need to prove your identity, California residency, and that you have passed the written and driving tests. The entire process typically takes several weeks from process to receiving your card in the mail.

Key Takeaways

AB 60 licenses are issued by the California DMV to anyone who can prove identity and California residency, without requiring proof of legal immigration status.
You will need an identity document (such as a passport, consular ID, or birth certificate), proof of California residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and proof of a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
You must pass the written knowledge test and the behind-the-wheel driving test, just as you would for a standard license.
The DMV does not share AB 60 applicant information with immigration enforcement agencies, and obtaining a license does not affect your immigration status.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

The DMV requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of California residency, and proof of a tax identification number. For identity, you can use a passport from any country, a consular ID card issued by your country's consulate, a birth certificate with a government-issued photo ID, or a foreign driver license with a photo. The document does not need to be in English — the DMV accepts documents in any language.

For California residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and a California address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, bank or credit card statement, or a government notice. A cell phone bill typically does not work. If you do not have a document in your name, you can bring a document in someone else's name plus a signed letter from that person confirming you live there, though this makes the process slower.

For tax identification, you will need either a Social Security number or an ITIN. If you have an ITIN, bring your ITIN letter from the IRS. If you do not have either, you can explore for an ITIN through the IRS before visiting the DMV, though this adds several weeks to your timeline. Some DMV offices allow you to explore for an ITIN at the same time you explore for your license, but this varies by location — call your local DMV office first to confirm.

How to schedule your DMV appointment and take the tests

Visit the California DMV website and use the online appointment system to schedule a visit. You can also call your local DMV office directly. Appointments typically fill up weeks in advance, so schedule as early as possible. When you book, select "Original Driver License" as your transaction type, even though you are explore under AB 60 — the DMV system does not have a separate category.

At your appointment, bring all your documents plus a completed DL 44 form (the standard driver license process). You can fill this out online before you go or bring a printed copy. The DMV will verify your documents, take your photo, and administer the written knowledge test on a computer. The test covers California traffic laws and safe driving practices and is offered in multiple languages. You must score at least 83 percent to pass.

If you pass the written test, you will schedule a separate appointment for the behind-the-wheel driving test. This typically happens within two to four weeks. You must bring a vehicle, proof of insurance, and the temporary permit the DMV gives you after passing the written test. A licensed driver over 25 must be present in the car during the test. After you pass the driving test, the DMV mails your license to the address you provided — this takes about two weeks.

What happens if you already have a foreign driver license

If you hold a valid driver license from another country, you can still take the behind-the-wheel driving test without taking the written test first — but only if your foreign license is valid and you bring it to your appointment. The DMV will waive the written test in this case. You still need to pass the driving test and provide all the same identity and residency documents.

If your foreign license has expired, you must take both the written and driving tests. The DMV does not accept expired licenses as proof that you can waive the written portion.

Privacy and immigration enforcement

California law prohibits the DMV from sharing AB 60 applicant information with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or other immigration agencies. The DMV does not report your process to any federal agency, and obtaining a license does not change your immigration status or create any immigration record. The license itself does not indicate that you are undocumented — it looks identical to a standard California driver license.

However, if you are pulled over by law enforcement, the officer will see in their system that your license was issued under AB 60. This is visible only to police, not to the general public. Some people worry this creates a target, while others find it useful because officers know the license is valid. The choice to obtain one is yours alone.

Costs and timeline

An AB 60 license costs the same as a standard California driver license. As of 2024, a four-year license costs $39 and an eight-year license costs $89. Fees change periodically, so confirm the current amount on the DMV website or by calling your local office.

The entire process from your first appointment to receiving your license in the mail typically takes six to ten weeks. This includes time to get an appointment (often two to four weeks), time between passing the written test and scheduling the driving test (two to four weeks), and time for the DMV to mail your license after you pass the driving test (about two weeks). If you need to obtain an ITIN first, add another four to six weeks.

What to do if you are denied or if documents are rejected

If the DMV rejects your documents, ask the staff member which specific document did not meet requirements and what alternative document you can bring instead. Common rejections happen when residency documents are too old, when identity documents are expired, or when the name on documents does not match exactly. You can return to the DMV with corrected documents — you do not lose your appointment or your progress.

If your process is denied entirely, the DMV will provide a written reason. You have the right to request a hearing to appeal the decision. Contact your local DMV office for the appeal process, which varies slightly by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Obtaining a driver license does not change your immigration status, create a record with immigration agencies, or affect any pending immigration proceedings. The DMV does not share your information with immigration enforcement. However, if you are in removal proceedings, consult with an immigration attorney before explore, as they may advise you based on your specific case.

Can I use an AB 60 license to board a plane or cross the border?

No. An AB 60 license cannot be used as federal identification for boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings. You can use it only for driving and for state identification purposes. To travel by air, you would need a passport or other federal ID. For crossing the U.S.-Mexico border, you would need a passport or a passport card.

What if I do not have a Social Security number or ITIN?

You can explore for an ITIN through the IRS before visiting the DMV. This takes four to six weeks. Some DMV offices allow you to explore for an ITIN at the same time you explore for your license, but you must call your local office first to confirm they offer this service. If your office does not, you will need to obtain an ITIN separately before completing your license process.

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

Yes. Once you have your first AB 60 license, you can renew it online through the DMV website or by mail, just like a standard license. You do not need to visit an office in person for renewal unless the DMV requests an updated photo or documents.

What if my address changes after I get my license?

You can update your address online through the DMV website, by mail, or in person at any DMV office. You do not need to bring documents to change your address — you can do it with just your license number and date of birth.

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.