California issues driver licenses to undocumented immigrants through a separate program
California allows undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver license under the AB 60 program, which launched in 2015. You do not need a Social Security number or proof of legal residency to get one. The license is valid for driving purposes only and cannot be used as federal identification for air travel or to enter federal buildings.
The AB 60 license looks different from a standard California license — it has a distinctive design and the word "AB 60" printed on it. It works at the DMV, for traffic stops, and for insurance purposes. Some employers and landlords accept it as proof of identity, though policies vary.
Key Takeaways
- California's AB 60 program lets you get a driver license without a Social Security number or proof of legal status.
- You must prove California residency through documents like utility bills, rental agreements, or tax returns, and show your identity through a passport or consulate ID.
- The AB 60 license cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building.
- The license costs the same as a standard California license and is renewed on the same schedule.
What documents you need to bring to the DMV
The DMV requires two categories of documents: proof of California residency and proof of identity. For residency, bring documents dated within the last 12 months, such as a utility bill, rental agreement, property tax bill, or income tax return. A bank statement or insurance policy also works. You need at least one document showing your name and a California address.
For identity, you can use a passport from any country, a consulate ID card (matrícula consular), a national ID from your country of origin, or a birth certificate paired with another document showing your name. The DMV accepts documents in any language, though some offices have interpreters available. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone are not accepted.
You will also need to fill out the standard California driver license process (Form DL 44) and pass the written test and vision test at the DMV. The written test is offered in multiple languages.
The step-by-step process at the DMV
Start by making an appointment at your local DMV office through the California DMV website or by calling 1-800-777-0133. Walk-ins are accepted but wait times are often longer. When you arrive, bring all your documents and tell the staff member you are explore under AB 60.
The DMV will verify your identity and residency documents, take your photograph, and collect your fingerprints. You will then take the written knowledge test on a computer or paper, depending on the office. The test covers California traffic laws and is available in 32 languages. You must pass with a score of at least 38 out of 46 questions.
After passing the written test, you will take a vision test. If you pass both, you pay the license fee (currently around $39 for a five-year license, though prices vary) and receive a temporary paper license on the spot. Your plastic AB 60 license arrives by mail within two to three weeks.
Residency requirements and what counts as proof
You must show that you have lived in California for at least one day. The DMV does not require a minimum residency period — even if you just arrived, you can get an AB 60 license. However, you must provide at least one document showing your name and a California address dated within the last 12 months.
Documents that work include utility bills (electric, gas, water, phone), rental agreements or leases, property tax statements, mortgage documents, homeowner or renter insurance policies, bank or credit union statements, and income tax returns. Some offices also accept letters from homeless shelters, domestic violence shelters, or social service agencies on official letterhead if you do not have a permanent address.
If you have recently moved to California and do not yet have documents in your name, bring what you have and explain your situation to the DMV staff. They may be able to work with you on a case-by-case basis.
How the AB 60 license differs from a standard California license
The AB 60 license has a different appearance than a standard California license. It includes the text "AB 60" and uses a different color scheme. The license is valid for driving in California and for presenting to law enforcement during traffic stops. Insurance companies will accept it as proof of identity for auto insurance purposes.
The key limitation is that you cannot use an AB 60 license for federal purposes. This means you cannot use it to board a domestic flight, enter a federal courthouse, or access a federal building. For those purposes, you would need a passport or other federally accepted ID. Some private businesses, employers, and landlords may also have their own policies about which forms of ID they accept.
The AB 60 license is renewed every five years, just like a standard license. You can renew by mail, online, or in person at the DMV, depending on your situation.
Renewal, replacement, and what happens if you move out of state
Your AB 60 license expires five years from the date it is issued. You can renew it by mail by sending in your current license, a completed renewal process (Form DL 44), and the renewal fee. You can also renew online through the California DMV website if you meet certain requirements, or in person at a DMV office.
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at any DMV office. Bring your documents proving residency and identity, just as you did for your original license. A replacement license costs less than a new license.
If you move out of California, your AB 60 license remains valid for driving in California, but you cannot use it to get a license in another state. Each state has its own rules about who can get a driver license. If you move to another state, you will need to check that state's requirements.
Insurance, traffic stops, and legal protections
An AB 60 license is accepted by California auto insurance companies as proof of identity and driving status. You can use it to purchase car insurance, and insurers cannot deny coverage based on immigration status. Having insurance is required by California law, and an AB 60 license makes it easier to comply.
During a traffic stop, you can present your AB 60 license to a police officer just as you would a standard license. The license does not reveal your immigration status to law enforcement. However, if an officer asks about your immigration status, you have the right to remain silent and request an attorney. Having a valid driver license does not change your rights during a police encounter.
California law protects AB 60 license holders from discrimination. Businesses cannot refuse service based on the fact that you hold an AB 60 license rather than a standard license. However, some private businesses may have their own ID policies, so it is worth asking in advance if you are unsure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Social Security number to get an AB 60 license?
No. The AB 60 program specifically allows you to get a license without 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 DMV purposes if you do not have a Social Security number.
Can I use an AB 60 license to fly on a domestic flight?
No. An AB 60 license is not accepted as federal identification for air travel. You would need a passport, passport card, or other federally accepted ID to board a domestic flight. Some airports may accept a passport from any country.
What if I do not have a passport or consulate ID?
You can use a national ID card from your country of origin, a birth certificate paired with another document showing your name, or other identity documents the DMV accepts. Call your local DMV office or visit the California DMV website to ask about specific documents if you are unsure.
Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration case or status?
Getting a driver license is a state matter and does not change your federal immigration status. However, if you are in immigration proceedings, consult with an immigration attorney before explore. An attorney can advise you based on your specific situation.
Can I renew my AB 60 license by mail?
Yes. You can renew by mail by sending your current license, a completed renewal process, and the renewal fee to the DMV. You can also renew online or in person at a DMV office, depending on your circumstances.