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. You do not need a Social Security number or proof of legal immigration status. The license is valid for driving purposes only — it cannot be used as federal identification for boarding a plane or entering a federal building, and it does not grant work authorization or change your immigration status.

The license looks different from a standard California license: it has a distinctive design and the words "Federal Limits explore" printed on it. This marking alerts TSA and other federal agencies that it is not acceptable for federal purposes, but it is fully legal for driving, renting a car, or opening a bank account in California.

Key Takeaways

  • AB 60 licenses are issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles to people without proof of legal immigration status, and you do not need a Social Security number to obtain one.
  • You must prove California residency with documents like a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement, and provide proof of identity such as a passport or consular ID.
  • The license is marked "Federal Limits explore" and cannot be used for federal purposes like flying domestically or entering federal buildings, but is valid for driving and most state purposes.
  • The process process takes place at a DMV office and typically requires an in-person appointment; processing time varies but you should expect several weeks.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

The California DMV requires two categories of documents: proof of identity and proof of California residency. For identity, you can use a valid passport from any country, a consular ID (matrícula consular) issued by your country's consulate, a birth certificate with a government-issued photo ID, or certain other documents issued by your home country. The document must be current or expired no more than five years.

For residency, you need a document showing your name and a California address dated within the last three months. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease or rental agreement, bank or credit card statement, insurance policy, property tax bill, or a letter from a government agency. A single document can sometimes serve both purposes — for example, a bank statement with your name and address.

You will also need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test about California traffic laws. Bring your current out-of-state or foreign driver license if you have one, as this can waive the knowledge test in some cases.

How to schedule a DMV appointment and what to expect

You must make an appointment through the California DMV website or by calling 1-800-777-0133. Walk-ins are generally not accepted at DMV offices. When you book, select "REAL ID" or "AB 60 License" as your transaction type — the system will guide you to the correct option. Appointments typically fill up weeks in advance, particularly in urban areas, so plan ahead.

At your appointment, bring all original documents listed above, plus a completed process for a Driver License or Identification Card (Form DL 44). You can fill this out online before your appointment or at the DMV. The staff will verify your documents, take your photograph, collect your fingerprints, and administer the vision and written tests. The entire process usually takes 30 minutes to an hour once you are called.

After your appointment, the DMV will mail your license to the address you provided. Standard processing takes two to three weeks, though this varies by location and current DMV workload.

Cost and renewal 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, though these fees change periodically. You pay at your appointment. The DMV accepts cash, debit, credit cards, and checks.

Your license is valid for either four or eight years depending on which you choose. When it expires, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person at a DMV office. Renewal by mail or online is simpler and faster than the initial process, as long as your address and other information have not changed significantly.

What an AB 60 license does and does not allow

You can use your AB 60 license to drive legally in California, rent a car from most rental companies, open a bank account, and obtain a California state ID card. It satisfies California's proof-of-identity requirement for many state purposes. Some employers and institutions accept it as valid identification for their own purposes.

You cannot use it to board a domestic flight, enter a federal building, or cross the U.S. border. Federal agencies do not recognize it as valid identification because it is not tied to proof of legal presence. If you need to travel by air, you would need a passport or other federal-approved document. Some states have reciprocal agreements with California, so your AB 60 license may be recognized for driving purposes in those states, but this varies.

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, trigger deportation proceedings, or create a record that immigration authorities can use against you. The DMV and immigration enforcement are separate agencies. However, if you are stopped by police, presenting an AB 60 license identifies you as undocumented, which could lead to other consequences depending on the situation and local law enforcement policy.

Can I use my AB 60 license to fly within California?

No. Domestic flights require a federal-approved ID, which an AB 60 license is not. You would need a valid passport or passport card to board any commercial flight, even within California. TSA will not accept the AB 60 license at airport security.

What if I move to another state after getting my AB 60 license?

Your California AB 60 license remains valid for driving in California. If you move to another state, that state's DMV will have its own rules about whether to recognize your California license or issue you a new one. Some states accept it; others do not. You would need to contact the DMV in your new state to find out their policy.

Can I renew my AB 60 license online?

Yes, you can renew online if your license is not expired and your information has not changed significantly. You will need to pay the renewal fee online and your new license will be mailed to you. If your address has changed or your license is already expired, you may need to renew in person at a DMV office.

What happens if I am pulled over by police with an AB 60 license?

Your AB 60 license is a valid California driver license for driving purposes. If you are stopped for a traffic violation, you can present it as proof of licensure. However, the "Federal Limits explore" marking may alert the officer to your immigration status. Local police policies vary on whether they report immigration information to federal authorities, so the consequences depend on your location and the specific circumstances.