Yes, California allows undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver license through the AB 60 program

California's AB 60 program, which began in 2015, lets undocumented immigrants get a standard driver license without proof of legal residency or a Social Security number. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or have permanent resident status. The license works the same as any other California driver license — it is valid for driving, employment, and identification purposes, though it cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building.

The process is straightforward: you visit a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office, provide proof of identity and California residency, pass the written and driving tests, and pay the standard fee. The main difference from a standard license process is that you use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number, or you can straightforward leave that field blank. Your license will look identical to any other California driver license.

Key Takeaways

  • Undocumented immigrants can obtain a California driver license through the AB 60 program without proof of legal residency or a Social Security number.
  • You will need to prove your identity with documents like a passport, consular ID, or foreign birth certificate, plus proof that you live in California.
  • You must pass the written knowledge test and the behind-the-wheel driving test, just like any other applicant.
  • The license is valid for driving and most identification purposes within California, but cannot be used for federal purposes like domestic air travel.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

The DMV requires two types of documents: proof of identity and proof of California residency. For identity, you can use a valid passport, a consular ID card (such as a Mexican matricula consular), a foreign birth certificate, or a national ID from your country of origin. The document must be unexpired or expired no more than one year ago.

For proof of residency, bring documents showing your name and a California address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or a letter from a government agency. The document 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 appears on the document, along with proof of your relationship (such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate).

Bring your ITIN if you have one, though it is not required — you can leave the Social Security number field blank on the process. You will also need to pay the standard California driver license fee, which is currently $39 for a four-year license or $64 for an eight-year license, though fees can change.

How to prepare for the written and driving tests

You must pass the same written knowledge test and behind-the-wheel driving test as any other applicant. The written test covers California traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the California Driver Handbook, which is available free on the DMV website in multiple languages including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and others. Many people study the handbook for a few weeks before taking the test.

The DMV also offers practice tests online at no cost. You can take the written test in your preferred language — the DMV offers testing in over a dozen languages. When you pass the written test, you will receive a learner's permit that allows you to practice driving with a licensed driver before scheduling your behind-the-wheel test.

For the driving test, you will need to bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will test your ability to start the car, follow traffic laws, park, and respond to road conditions. The test typically takes 20 to 30 minutes. You can take the test in any vehicle, including a borrowed one, as long as it meets safety requirements.

The step-by-step process at the DMV

Start by making an appointment at your local DMV office through the DMV website or by calling 1-800-777-0133. Walk-ins are accepted but appointments are faster. Bring all your documents — proof of identity, proof of residency, and payment for the fee. Tell the DMV staff that you are explore under AB 60.

The staff will review your documents and have you fill out the driver license process form (DL 44). You will be asked about your address, date of birth, and other standard information. When you reach the Social Security number field, you can either enter your ITIN or leave it blank — both are acceptable. You will then take the written test at a computer terminal in the office.

Once you pass the written test, you will receive a learner's permit valid for 12 months. You can then schedule your behind-the-wheel driving test, which you can often do the same day or within a few days. After you pass the driving test, the DMV will process your license and you will receive it by mail within two to three weeks, or you can pick it up at the office if you prefer.

What your AB 60 license can and cannot be used for

Your California driver license issued under AB 60 is a valid form of identification for driving, banking, employment, and most state and local purposes. Employers cannot discriminate against you for having an AB 60 license. You can use it to open a bank account, rent an apartment, or prove your identity to police during a traffic stop. The license is also valid for purchasing alcohol or tobacco if you are of legal age.

However, the license cannot be used for federal purposes. You cannot use it to board a domestic flight, enter a federal building, or explore for federal benefits. If you need to travel by air, you will need a passport or other federal-approved travel document. Some states do not recognize California's AB 60 license, so if you plan to drive in another state, check that state's rules first.

Renewing your AB 60 license

Your AB 60 driver license is valid for four or eight years, depending on which term you chose when you first obtained it. When it is time to renew, you can do so by mail, online, or in person at the DMV. Renewal by mail or online is the fastest option if your address has not changed and your documents are still valid.

To renew by mail, the DMV will send you a renewal notice before your license expires. Follow the instructions on the notice, include payment, and mail it back. To renew online, visit the DMV website and follow the online renewal process. If you need to renew in person — for example, if your address has changed or you need a new photo — bring the same types of documents you brought for your original process: proof of identity and proof of current California residency.

What to do if the DMV denies your process

The DMV can deny an AB 60 process only if your documents do not meet the requirements or if you fail the written or driving test. If your documents are rejected, ask the DMV staff which documents are not acceptable and what alternatives you can provide. For example, if your lease agreement is not dated within the last 60 days, you might bring a recent utility bill instead.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. If you fail the driving test, you can schedule another test within a few days or weeks. There is no limit to how many times you can retake either test, though you will pay the test fee each time. If you believe the DMV made an error, you can file a complaint with the DMV's Customer Service Department or contact a legal aid organization that helps immigrants with driver license issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration status?

No. Obtaining a driver license under AB 60 does not change your immigration status or create any legal record that immigration authorities can use against you. The DMV does not share driver license information with immigration enforcement agencies. However, if you are pulled over by police, you should know your rights and consider consulting with an immigration attorney if you have concerns.

Can I use an AB 60 license to board a plane within California?

No. AB 60 licenses cannot be used for any federal purpose, including domestic air travel. To fly, you will need a valid passport, passport card, or other federal-approved travel document such as a REAL ID-compliant license, which requires proof of legal residency.

What if I do not have a birth certificate or passport?

The DMV accepts other identity documents including consular ID cards, national IDs from your country of origin, or even a combination of documents that together prove your identity. Contact your local DMV office to ask which documents they will accept in your situation, or visit the DMV website for a full list of acceptable identity documents.

How long does it take to get an AB 60 license?

The entire process typically takes four to six weeks from your first DMV visit to receiving your license by mail. The written test can be taken the same day you explore. The driving test can often be scheduled within a few days. Once you pass both tests, the DMV mails your license within two to three weeks.

Do I need to have a learner's permit before I can take the driving test?

Yes. After you pass the written test, you receive a learner's permit that is valid for 12 months. You must have this permit before you can schedule your behind-the-wheel driving test. You can schedule the driving test when ready after passing the written test, or you can wait and practice driving first.