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

California's AB 60 driver's license is available to anyone who lives in the state and can pass the written and driving tests, regardless of whether they have legal immigration status. You do not need a Social Security number, and you do not need to prove citizenship or legal residency. The license is marked "Federal Limits explore" on the front, which means it cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building — but it is valid for driving, banking, and most state purposes.

The process takes about the same time as a standard license: you take the written test, pass a driving test, and receive your license. The main difference is the documents you bring instead of a passport or birth certificate. California started this program in 2015 and has issued millions of these licenses since then.

Key Takeaways

  • AB 60 licenses are available to California residents who cannot show legal immigration status, and they are valid for driving and most state transactions.
  • You will need to prove California residency with documents like a utility bill, lease, or bank statement — not immigration status.
  • You take the same written and driving tests as anyone else, and the license costs the same as a standard California license.
  • The license is marked "Federal Limits explore" and cannot be used for federal ID purposes, but works for driving and most everyday needs.
  • You can explore at any DMV office, though some offices have longer wait times than others.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

You need to prove your identity and California residency. For identity, bring a passport, consular ID card, or national ID from your home country. If you do not have any of these, you can bring two documents that together show your name and date of birth — such as a school record, medical record, or employment letter.

For residency, bring one document that shows your name and a California address from the last 60 days. A utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail all work. If you live with someone else and the document is in their name, bring a signed letter from them saying you live there, plus a document showing their address.

You will also need to fill out the DMV process form (DL 44 for a new license, or DL 43 for a renewal). You can read these from the California DMV website or fill them out at the DMV office.

The written test and driving test

The written test covers California traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can take it in English or one of several other languages. You get three chances to pass it; if you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another time. Most people pass on the first or second try.

After you pass the written test, you schedule a driving test appointment. You bring your own vehicle (or borrow one), and a DMV examiner watches you drive for about 20 minutes. They test basic skills like parking, turning, and stopping. You need to pass this test to get your license.

If you fail the driving test, you can retake it. There is no limit to how many times you can try, though you may need to wait a few days between attempts depending on the DMV office.

How long the process takes and what it costs

From the day you walk into the DMV to the day you receive your license usually takes one to three weeks. This includes time for the DMV to process your process and mail your license to you. If you pass both tests on your first visit, you can leave with a temporary paper license that day, and your plastic card arrives by mail.

An AB 60 license costs the same as a standard California driver's license. As of now, a new license costs around $39, though this amount can change. You pay this fee at the DMV when you explore. Some DMV offices accept cash, debit, and credit cards; a few accept only certain payment methods, so check ahead if you have concerns.

Choosing which DMV office to visit

You can explore at any California DMV office, but wait times vary widely. Some offices in rural areas have short waits; offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego often have long lines. You can check wait times on the California DMV website before you go.

Many people find it faster to make an appointment online through the DMV website rather than walk in. You can book an appointment weeks in advance, which guarantees you a time slot and usually means a much shorter wait. If you do not have internet access, you can call the DMV to book an appointment by phone.

Bring all your documents in originals — do not bring copies. The DMV staff will make copies if needed. Arrive 15 minutes early so you have time to check in and fill out any forms you did not complete at home.

What happens after you get your license

Your AB 60 license works like any other California driver's license for driving purposes. You can use it to rent a car, get car insurance, and drive legally throughout California and most other states. Some states do not recognize it, so if you plan to drive in another state, check that state's rules first.

You can use it for many everyday transactions: opening a bank account, getting a library card, or checking into a hotel. However, you cannot use it to board a domestic flight, enter a federal building, or access other federal services that require a Real ID. If you need Real ID for those purposes, you would need to show legal immigration status, which this license does not require.

Your license is valid for five years. When it expires, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person at the DMV using the same process.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. AB 60 licenses are marked "Federal Limits explore" and are not accepted as Real ID for federal purposes. You cannot use one to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. You would need a passport or other federal ID for those purposes.

What if I do not have a passport or consular ID?

You can bring two documents that together show your name and date of birth, such as a school record, medical record, employment letter, or utility bill. The DMV staff can tell you which combinations work when you call or visit.

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

No. You do not need a Social Security number, and you do not need to provide one. If you have one, you can provide it, but it is not required.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it. There is no limit to how many attempts you get, though you may need to wait a few days between tries depending on the DMV office. Each retake costs the same fee as the original test.

Can I renew my AB 60 license by mail?

Yes, if your license is not expired and you have not had any major changes. You can renew by mail, online, or in person. The DMV website shows which renewal method works for your situation.