Yes, undocumented immigrants can get a California driver's license under Assembly Bill 60, which took effect in January 2015
California allows undocumented immigrants to obtain a standard driver's license without proof of legal residency or a Social Security number. The state issues what is called an AB 60 license, named after the law that created it. This license works the same way as a regular California driver's license for driving purposes — you can use it to drive legally, and it satisfies insurance requirements. The main difference is that federal agencies like TSA will not accept it for air travel or entry into federal buildings.
The process is nearly identical to getting a standard license: you pass a written test, a vision test, and a driving test. You pay the same fees. The only real difference is the documents you bring to prove who you are and where you live, since you cannot provide a Social Security number or a passport from the United States.
Key Takeaways
- AB 60 licenses are valid for driving in California and satisfy insurance requirements, but federal agencies like TSA will not accept them for air travel or federal building entry.
- You need an identity document (passport, consular ID, or birth certificate with a photo ID), proof of California residency, and proof of your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- The written, vision, and driving tests are the same as for any California driver's license, and you pay the standard renewal and licensing fees.
- You must visit a DMV office in person; there is no online or mail option for AB 60 licenses.
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 bring a valid passport from any country, a consular identification card (such as a Mexican matricula consular), or a birth certificate paired with a photo ID issued by a government agency. The birth certificate must be an official certified copy, not a photocopy.
For proof of residency, bring two documents that show your name and a California address. These can include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or a bank or credit card statement dated within the last two months. A letter from a government agency, school, or employer with your name and address also works. If you live with someone else and do not have documents in your name, a notarized letter from the person whose name appears on the utility bill or lease, stating that you live there, is acceptable.
You will also need to provide either a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you have an ITIN, bring the IRS letter that was issued with it or your most recent tax return showing the number. If you do not have either, you can provide a declaration under penalty of perjury stating that you do not have a Social Security number or ITIN — the DMV will accept this in writing.
The written test, vision test, and driving test
The written test covers California traffic laws and road signs. It is the same test every applicant takes, and you can study using the California Driver Handbook, which is free on the DMV website. You must answer at least 15 out of 20 questions correctly to pass. You can request the test in Spanish or several other languages if English is not your first language.
The vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. The DMV will test your eyesight at the office; if you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If you fail the vision test, you will be told what you need to do — usually getting an eye exam from an optometrist or ophthalmologist and bringing a report back to the DMV.
The driving test takes about 20 minutes. A DMV examiner will ride with you in your own vehicle (or a vehicle you borrow) and watch you perform basic driving tasks: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and following traffic laws. You must have a valid driver's license holder or someone with a valid California license in the car with you during the test if you do not yet have a license.
Fees and how long the process takes
An AB 60 license costs the same as a standard California driver's license. As of 2024, a new license costs $39 if you are under 70, and a renewal costs $42. These fees change periodically, so check the DMV website for the current amount. You pay at the DMV office when you submit your process.
The entire process — from your first visit to the DMV through receiving your license in the mail — usually takes two to three weeks. You will receive a temporary paper license at the DMV office that day, valid for 60 days while your plastic card is being printed and mailed to your address. If your plastic license does not arrive within three weeks, contact the DMV to report it.
Where to go and how to schedule your appointment
You must visit a California DMV office in person. You cannot complete an AB 60 process online or by mail. Go to the DMV website, select your county, and find the nearest office. Some offices are busier than others; calling ahead or checking wait times online can help you choose the best time to visit.
You can schedule an appointment online through the DMV website, which usually reduces your wait time. If you do not have internet access, you can call your local DMV office to schedule. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait several hours. Bring all your documents in originals (not photocopies, except for the ITIN letter or tax return), and arrive early.
What happens if you fail the driving test
If you do not pass the driving test on your first attempt, you can retake it. You do not have to retake the written or vision tests unless the DMV tells you that your vision has changed. You can schedule another driving test appointment as soon as the next day, though wait times vary by location. Each retake costs the same fee as the original test.
If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no limit to how many times you can retake either test, so take your time studying and practicing before your next attempt.
Renewing your AB 60 license
An AB 60 license is valid for five years, the same as a standard California driver's license. You can renew it by mail or online using the DMV website, just like any other license. You do not have to visit the DMV in person for renewal unless the DMV asks you to take a new photo or retake the vision test.
The DMV will mail you a renewal notice about 60 days before your license expires. Follow the instructions on the notice to renew online, by mail, or in person. If you renew by mail, include the renewal notice, your current license, and a check or money order for the renewal fee. If you renew online, you will need your license number and date of birth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an AB 60 license to fly on an airplane?
No. TSA does not accept AB 60 licenses for domestic air travel. You will need a passport or another federal ID. However, you can use an AB 60 license to drive to the airport and to rent a car.
What if I do not have a birth certificate?
Contact the vital records office in the state or country where you were born and request an official certified copy. This can take several weeks. In the meantime, some consulates issue identification cards (like the Mexican matricula consular) that the DMV will accept as proof of identity.
Do I need to be a California resident to get an AB 60 license?
Yes. You must prove that you live in California by providing two documents with your name and a California address. Temporary residency or staying with a friend does not count — you need documents showing a permanent address.
Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration status?
No. The DMV does not share AB 60 applicant information with immigration authorities. Your information is kept separate from federal databases. However, if you are stopped by law enforcement, they may ask for your license and run a background check, which is separate from the licensing process.
Can I get an AB 60 license if I have a criminal record?
Most criminal records do not disqualify you from getting a driver's license. However, certain convictions — such as driving under the influence, reckless driving, or vehicular manslaughter — may result in denial or suspension. The DMV will review your record during your process.