AB 60 lets you get a California driver's license without proof of legal residency status

California Assembly Bill 60, which took effect on January 1, 2022, created a separate category of driver's license for people who cannot show proof of legal presence in the United States. The license is called an AB 60 license, and it works the same way as a standard California driver's license for driving purposes—you can use it to operate a vehicle legally in California and prove you passed the written and driving tests.

The key difference is what you do not have to prove. Instead of showing documents like a passport, visa, or birth certificate that establish your immigration status, you show documents that prove your identity and California residency. This means people without Social Security numbers, visa documentation, or legal immigration status can still get behind the wheel legally.

The license itself looks different from a standard California license. It has a distinctive design and does not include a Real ID star in the top right corner. That matters if you plan to fly domestically or enter federal buildings, because the AB 60 license alone will not meet Real ID requirements for those purposes.

Key Takeaways

  • An AB 60 license allows you to drive legally in California without proving immigration status, using identity and residency documents instead.
  • You must show two forms of California residency proof (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement) and a valid identity document from your country of origin.
  • The AB 60 license does not may have access to as Real ID, so you cannot use it alone to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings after May 7, 2025.
  • The DMV processes AB 60 applications at regular driver's license offices; there is no separate process form or special procedure beyond standard licensing steps.
  • An AB 60 license is valid for five years and renews the same way as a standard California license.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

The DMV requires two categories of documents for an AB 60 license: proof of identity and proof of California residency. You do not need to bring immigration documents or a Social Security number.

For identity proof, you can bring a valid passport, national ID card, consular ID, or other government-issued identity document from your country of origin. The document must be current or expired no more than five years ago. If your document is in another language, you may need to bring an official translation, though the DMV can sometimes help with this on the spot.

For California residency, you need two documents that show your name and a California address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank or credit card statement, government check, tax return, or paystub. Documents must be dated within the last 12 months. If your name does not appear on a document but you live at that address, you can bring a signed letter from the person whose name is on it, plus that person's ID.

You will also need to pass the written knowledge test and the behind-the-wheel driving test, just as you would for a standard license. Bring your current out-of-state license if you have one, or your passport if you do not.

The step-by-step process at the DMV

Start by scheduling an appointment at your local DMV office through the California DMV website or by calling 1-800-777-0133. Walk-ins are accepted but appointments move faster. Tell the DMV representative that you are explore for an AB 60 license.

At your appointment, bring all your identity and residency documents. The DMV will verify your documents, take your photograph, and collect your fingerprints. You will pay the standard driver's license fee, which varies depending on your age and license type but is the same whether you are getting an AB 60 or standard license.

Next, you will take the written knowledge test on a computer at the DMV. The test covers California traffic laws and safe driving practices. You can take it in English or several other languages. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment.

Once you pass the written test, you will schedule a behind-the-wheel driving test. This is usually not the same day; the DMV will give you a date and time. You must bring a vehicle, a licensed driver to accompany you, and your temporary instruction permit. The test takes about 20 minutes and covers basic driving skills, parking, and following traffic laws.

After you pass the driving test, the DMV will issue your AB 60 license on the spot or mail it to you within 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the office.

How an AB 60 license differs from a standard California license

An AB 60 license is valid for driving in California and is recognized by law enforcement the same way a standard license is. You can use it to rent a car, prove your identity to police during a traffic stop, and satisfy California's requirement to carry a valid driver's license while operating a vehicle.

The main limitation is Real ID compliance. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID-compliant document to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building such as a courthouse or Social Security office. An AB 60 license does not meet this standard because it does not require proof of legal presence. If you need Real ID for travel or federal access, you would need to obtain a passport or passport card from your country of origin instead.

Some private businesses and institutions may also have their own policies about which forms of ID they accept. Banks, insurance companies, or rental agencies might require a Real ID or additional documentation. It is worth asking ahead if you are unsure.

The AB 60 license also does not allow you to purchase firearms or ammunition in California, because federal law requires proof of legal presence for those transactions. If you are stopped by law enforcement, the license itself is valid; however, immigration enforcement could still pursue separate action based on immigration status.

Renewal and expiration

An AB 60 license is valid for five years from the date of issue. You can renew it by mail, online, or in person at the DMV, using the same process as a standard California license. The DMV will send you a renewal notice about 60 days before your license expires.

If you renew by mail or online, you do not need to retake the written or driving tests. You will need to provide updated proof of California residency if the DMV requests it. Renewal fees are the same as for a standard license.

If your residency documents have changed—for example, you moved to a new address—update your address with the DMV before your license expires. You can do this online, by mail, or in person.

What happens if you are stopped by police with an AB 60 license

An AB 60 license is a valid California driver's license for the purpose of driving. If you are pulled over for a traffic violation, the license satisfies the legal requirement to carry a valid license. You should hand it to the officer like any other license.

The license itself does not tell an officer anything about your immigration status. However, if the officer asks about your status or immigration history, you have the right to remain silent and ask to speak to a lawyer. Having a valid driver's license does not protect you from immigration enforcement, but it does protect you from being cited for driving without a license.

If you are arrested or detained, do not sign anything or answer questions without a lawyer present. Keep the phone number of a trusted contact and a lawyer's number in your wallet or phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Not after May 7, 2025. Starting that date, you will need a Real ID-compliant document such as a passport, passport card, or state ID marked with a Real ID star. An AB 60 license does not have the Real ID star because it does not require proof of legal presence. You can still use it to drive.

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

No. You do not need a Social Security number, Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), or any immigration documents. You only need identity proof from your country of origin and two documents showing California residency.

What if my identity document is expired?

The DMV accepts identity documents that are expired by no more than five years. If your document is older than that, you may be able to bring an additional document such as a consular ID or passport from your country to establish identity. Contact your local DMV office to ask what documents they can accept.

Can I get an AB 60 license if I already have a driver's license from another state?

Yes. You can surrender your out-of-state license and explore for an AB 60 license in California. You will still need to pass the written and driving tests unless California has a reciprocal agreement with your previous state, which is rare. Bring your out-of-state license to your DMV appointment.

Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration case or status?

A driver's license is a state document, not a federal immigration document. Getting an AB 60 license does not change your immigration status or create a record that immigration authorities can use against you. However, if you are in removal proceedings or have pending immigration matters, talk to your immigration lawyer before explore, as they may have specific information for your situation.