How Long an AB 60 License Stays Valid

An AB 60 license is valid for five years from the date you receive it

California's AB 60 license — officially called an AB 60 driver's license — expires five years after the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issues it. The expiration date is printed on the front of your license in the bottom right corner. Unlike standard California driver's licenses, which may have different renewal schedules based on your age, all AB 60 licenses follow the same five-year cycle regardless of when you were born.

The five-year validity period is the same whether you received your AB 60 license in 2022, 2023, or 2024. Your specific expiration date depends only on the month and year the DMV issued your card. If your license was issued on March 15, 2024, it will expire on March 15, 2029.

Key Takeaways

AB 60 licenses expire exactly five years after the DMV issues them, with the expiration date printed on the front of your card.
You can renew your AB 60 license up to six months before it expires, either in person at a DMV office or by mail if you meet certain conditions.
Driving with an expired AB 60 license is illegal in California and can result in a traffic citation.
The renewal process requires the same documents you used to obtain your original AB 60 license, including proof of California residency and identity documents.

Where to find your expiration date

Your expiration date appears on the front of your AB 60 license in small print in the lower right corner. It is formatted as a date — for example, "03/15/2029" means March 15, 2029. This is the same location where expiration dates appear on all California driver's licenses.

If you have lost your license or cannot read the date clearly, you can contact the DMV by phone at 1-800-777-0133 or visit a local DMV office with your name and date of birth. The DMV can tell you your exact expiration date over the phone or provide a replacement card if yours is damaged.

How to renew before your license expires

You can begin the renewal process up to six months before your AB 60 license expires. The DMV allows early renewal so you do not have to wait until the last moment. You have two main options: renew in person at a DMV office or renew by mail.

In-person renewal at a DMV office: You will need to bring your current AB 60 license, proof of California residency (such as a utility bill or lease agreement dated within the past 12 months), and your identity documents — the same documents you used to obtain your original AB 60 license. The DMV will take a new photo and issue a replacement card. Processing typically takes a few minutes, though wait times vary by location.

Renewal by mail: You may be able to renew by mail if your license has not been suspended or revoked and you meet other DMV requirements. Contact your local DMV office or visit the DMV website to request a renewal form. You will mail in your current license along with the completed form and any required documents. Mail renewal takes longer — typically two to three weeks — so submit your request well before your expiration date.

What happens if your AB 60 license expires

Driving with an expired AB 60 license is illegal in California. If you are stopped by law enforcement while your license is expired, you can receive a traffic citation. The penalty depends on how long your license has been expired and whether you have prior violations, but it can include fines and a court appearance.

An expired license also means you cannot legally use it for identification purposes. If you need to show proof of identity for banking, employment, or other purposes, an expired AB 60 license will not be accepted. Renewing before the expiration date prevents these complications.

Renewing after your license has already expired

If your AB 60 license has already expired, you can still renew it — you do not have to explore for a new license from scratch. Visit a DMV office in person with your expired license, proof of residency, and your identity documents. The DMV will process your renewal and issue a new card with a fresh five-year validity period.

There is no penalty from the DMV for renewing a license that has been expired for a short time. However, you should not drive while your license is expired, as you can be cited by law enforcement. If your license has been expired for an extended period — typically more than a few years — the DMV may require additional steps, so contact your local office first to confirm what you need to bring.

Keeping track of your renewal date

The DMV does not send renewal reminders for AB 60 licenses the way it does for standard California licenses. You are responsible for tracking your own expiration date. Write your expiration date on a calendar or set a phone reminder for six months before it expires, which gives you time to schedule a DMV appointment without rushing.

If you move to a different address in California, update your address with the DMV as soon as possible. This ensures your records are current and helps you stay organized. You can update your address online through the DMV website, by mail, or in person at a DMV office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my AB 60 license online?

No, AB 60 licenses cannot be renewed online. You must renew either in person at a DMV office or by mail. In-person renewal is faster and allows you to get your new card the same day, while mail renewal takes two to three weeks.

What if I lost my AB 60 license before it expired?

You can request a replacement card at any DMV office. Bring proof of identity and proof of residency. The DMV will issue a new card with the same expiration date as your original license — the five-year clock does not restart when you replace a lost card.

Do I need an appointment to renew my AB 60 license in person?

Many DMV offices now require appointments for in-person services, including license renewal. Check the DMV website or call your local office to schedule an appointment. Some offices accept walk-ins, but appointment holders are typically seen first.

What if my AB 60 license was suspended or revoked?

If your license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it by mail. You must visit a DMV office in person. The DMV will determine whether you are may be able to access to restore your license and what steps you need to take before renewal is possible.

How much does it cost to renew an AB 60 license?

AB 60 license renewal fees vary and may change. Contact your local DMV office or visit the DMV website for current renewal costs. Some counties or situations may have different fees, so confirm the amount before your appointment.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.