How to Get a Driver License in California Without Proof of Citizenship

California Issues Driver Licenses to Undocumented Immigrants

California allows you to obtain a driver license without proof of citizenship or legal immigration status. The state has issued these licenses since 2015 under a program called AB 60. You do not need a Social Security number, and you do not need to show that you are in the country legally. The license works the same as any other California driver license for driving purposes, though it carries a marking that distinguishes it from licenses issued to citizens.

The process involves visiting a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in person, passing a written test and a driving test, and paying the standard license fee. The main difference from a standard license is the documents you bring to prove your identity and California residency — you will use documents that do not require citizenship status.

Key Takeaways

You can get a California driver license without citizenship or legal immigration status by using an AB 60 license process.
You must prove your identity with a passport, consular ID, or other government-issued document from your country of origin, and prove California residency with utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements.
You will pass the same written driving test and behind-the-wheel driving test as any other applicant, and pay the same fees.
The license is marked differently from standard licenses and cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight, but works for driving and state identification.

Documents You Need to Bring to the DMV

The DMV requires two categories of documents: proof of identity and proof of California residency. For identity, you can bring a passport, a consular ID (matrícula consular), a national ID card from your country of origin, or a foreign driver license. The document must be current or expired no more than five years ago. If your document is in another language, bring the original and a certified English translation.

For California residency, bring two documents that show your name and a California address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, bank or credit card statement, insurance policy, or a letter from a government agency. The documents must be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have documents in your name, you can bring a signed letter from the person whose name is on the document, plus a document that proves your relationship to that person (such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate).

Bring your completed process for a Driver License or Identification Card (Form DL 44), which you can fill out at home or at the DMV. You will also need to bring payment for the license fee, which varies depending on the type of license and how long you want it to be valid.

The Written Test and Driving Test

After you submit your documents, you will take the written knowledge test, which covers California traffic laws and safe driving practices. You can take the test in English or in one of several other languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and others. The DMV offers a handbook in multiple languages to study from before your appointment. You must answer at least 15 out of 20 questions correctly to pass.

Once you pass the written test, you will schedule a behind-the-wheel driving test with a DMV examiner. During this test, you will demonstrate that you can operate a vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. The examiner will ask you to perform specific maneuvers and will evaluate your ability to handle different road conditions. You must pass this test to receive your license.

If you do not pass either test on your first attempt, you can retake it. There is no limit to how many times you can test, though you will pay a fee each time you take the behind-the-wheel test.

How the AB 60 License Differs From a Standard License

An AB 60 license looks similar to a standard California driver license but includes a marking that indicates it was issued under AB 60. This marking allows law enforcement and other officials to see at a glance that the license was issued without proof of citizenship. The license is valid for driving in California and for state identification purposes.

However, the AB 60 license cannot be used for federal purposes. You cannot use it to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal building that requires ID, or explore for certain federal programs. If you need a form of ID for federal purposes, you would need to explore other options, such as a state ID card (which has the same limitations) or a passport from your country of origin.

For driving purposes, the AB 60 license carries the same legal weight as any other California driver license. You can use it to drive, and law enforcement will recognize it as valid proof that you are licensed to operate a vehicle in California.

Steps to Get Your License at the DMV

Start by gathering your documents: your identity document, two proofs of California residency, and your completed Form DL 44. You can read the form from the DMV website or pick one up at a DMV office. Fill it out completely and bring it with you.

Next, schedule an appointment at your local DMV office through the DMV website or by calling 1-800-777-0133. Walk-ins are accepted at some offices, but appointments are faster and more reliable. When you arrive, bring all your documents and be prepared to pay the license fee. The fee depends on the type of license and its validity period; a standard five-year license costs less than a ten-year license.

At your appointment, a DMV employee will review your documents and take your photograph. You will then take the written test. If you pass, you will schedule your behind-the-wheel driving test, which may happen the same day or on a later date depending on the DMV office's schedule. Once you pass the driving test, you will receive your license, usually on the spot or within a few days by mail.

Fees and License Validity Periods

California driver licenses are available in different validity periods: four years, five years, or ten years. The fee increases with the length of validity. As of 2024, a five-year license costs less than a ten-year license, but prices vary and may change. You can check the current fee schedule on the DMV website or ask when you call to schedule your appointment.

You will also pay a separate fee for the behind-the-wheel driving test if you do not pass on your first attempt. This fee is the same whether you hold an AB 60 license or a standard license. There are no additional fees for AB 60 licenses compared to standard licenses — you pay the same amount.

What Happens if You Move or Your Documents Expire

If you move to a different address in California, you must update your address with the DMV within 10 days. You can do this online through the DMV website, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. You do not need to renew your license just because you moved — you only need to update your address.

When your license expires, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person at the DMV. If you renew by mail or online, you do not need to retake the written or driving tests. However, you will need to provide updated proof of California residency if the DMV requests it. The renewal process is the same for AB 60 licenses as for standard licenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. The AB 60 license cannot be used for federal purposes, including domestic air travel. You would need a passport from your country of origin or another federally accepted form of ID. Some airports may accept a passport card or a consular ID for certain purposes, but policies vary by airline and airport.

What if my identity document is expired?

You can use an expired identity document as long as it expired no more than five years ago. If it expired more than five years ago, you will need to bring a different document that meets the DMV's requirements, such as a current passport or consular ID.

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

No. You do not need a Social Security number. If you have one, you can provide it, but it is not required. The DMV will issue you an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for licensing purposes if you do not have a Social Security number.

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

In most cases, you receive your license on the same day you pass the driving test. If the DMV needs to process additional information, your license may arrive by mail within a few days. The DMV will give you a temporary license receipt that you can use while you wait for your permanent license.

Can I renew my AB 60 license by mail?

Yes. When your license is about to expire, you can renew it by mail or online without visiting a DMV office or retaking any tests. The DMV will send you renewal information in the mail before your license expires. Follow the instructions to complete the renewal process.

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.