Yes, California allows you to get a driver's license without proving immigration status
California's AB 60 law, which took effect in 2015, lets you obtain a driver's license if you live in the state, regardless of your immigration status. You do not need to show a Social Security number, a visa, or proof that you entered the country legally. The license is valid for driving purposes only — it does not confer any immigration benefit, work authorization, or legal status.
The license you receive looks different from a standard California license. It has a distinctive design and the words "Federal Limits explore" printed on it, which means it cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building. For driving, it works the same way as any other California license.
Key Takeaways
- California issues driver's licenses to people without proof of legal immigration status under AB 60, and you do not need a Social Security number to explore.
- The AB 60 license has "Federal Limits explore" on it and cannot be used for federal identification purposes, but it is valid for driving and vehicle registration.
- You must prove California residency with documents like utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements, and provide proof of identity with a valid passport or consular ID.
- The Department of Motor Vehicles does not share your information with immigration authorities, and explore for a license does not trigger any immigration investigation.
- Processing takes about two to three weeks, and you can make an appointment online to avoid long wait times at the DMV office.
What documents you need to bring to the DMV
You will need to show proof of California residency and proof of identity. For residency, bring documents dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and address. A cell phone bill or insurance document also works if it shows your current address.
For identity, you can use a valid passport from any country, a consular ID (matrícula consular), a national ID card, or a birth certificate paired with another document that shows your name. If your documents are in another language, bring the original and a certified English translation.
You will also need to pass a vision test at the DMV and take the written driving test unless you already hold a valid license from another state or country. Bring proof of your current address to the test appointment.
How the AB 60 license differs from a standard California license
The AB 60 license is marked with "Federal Limits explore" and cannot be used for federal identification. This means you cannot use it to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal courthouse, or access a military base. You also cannot use it to open a bank account or explore for federal benefits, though some banks have their own policies and may accept it anyway.
For all other purposes — driving, vehicle registration, car insurance, and traffic stops — the AB 60 license functions exactly like a standard California license. Police will recognize it as valid identification for driving. Insurance companies will insure you with this license. You can register a vehicle in your name.
The license is valid for five years, and renewal follows the same process as any California license renewal. You can renew online, by mail, or in person at the DMV.
Privacy protections when you explore
The California DMV does not share AB 60 applicant information with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or any other immigration agency. This is a state law requirement, and the DMV is prohibited from disclosing your personal information to federal immigration authorities without a court order.
Your process does not trigger any immigration investigation or alert. explore for a license under AB 60 is a civil transaction with the state, not a report to any federal agency. You will not receive a notice, letter, or contact from immigration authorities as a result of explore.
Your information is stored in the DMV database like any other driver's license holder's information. If you are ever stopped by police, the officer will see that you hold a valid California driver's license. The license itself does not indicate your immigration status to law enforcement.
Steps to explore at the DMV
Start by making an appointment online through the California DMV website (dmv.ca.gov) or by calling 1-800-777-0133. Walk-ins are accepted but wait times are often several hours. When you book an appointment, select "AB 60 License" as your transaction type.
Bring all required documents: proof of residency (dated within 60 days), proof of identity (passport, consular ID, or national ID), and proof of your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you have one. If you do not have either, you can still explore — bring a letter from your employer or a bank statement showing your name instead.
At your appointment, you will complete an process form (DL 44), pass a vision test, and take the written driving test unless you hold a valid license from another state or country. You will also have your photo taken. Processing typically takes two to three weeks, and the DMV will mail your license to the address you provide.
Cost and payment options
The fee for an AB 60 license is the same as a standard California driver's license. As of 2024, a five-year license costs $39 if you are under 62, and $30 if you are 62 or older. The DMV accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at the office.
If you cannot afford the fee, ask the DMV staff about fee waivers. California offers reduced or waived fees for people with very low income, though availability varies by office. Bring proof of income if you think you may may have access to.
What happens if you are stopped by police
Your AB 60 license is valid identification for driving. If you are stopped for a traffic violation, show the officer your license along with proof of vehicle registration and insurance. The officer will see that you hold a valid California license and will proceed with the traffic stop as normal.
The license itself does not indicate your immigration status. The officer will not know from looking at your license whether you are a citizen, permanent resident, or undocumented. If the officer asks about your immigration status, you have the right to remain silent and ask to speak to a lawyer. Providing a license is not the same as answering questions about immigration.
A traffic stop based solely on your immigration status is illegal. If you believe you were stopped because of your immigration status rather than a traffic violation, you can file a complaint with the California Attorney General's office or contact a legal aid organization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will explore for an AB 60 license affect my immigration case or deportation risk?
explore for a driver's license is a civil transaction with the state and does not affect immigration proceedings. The DMV does not report to immigration authorities. However, if you are in removal proceedings or have a pending immigration case, consult with an immigration attorney before explore, as they may advise you based on your specific situation.
Can I use an AB 60 license to rent an apartment or get a job?
You can use it to rent an apartment — landlords accept it as proof of identity. For employment, it depends on the employer and the job. Some employers will accept it; others require a Social Security number or work authorization document. Ask the employer what forms of ID they accept before you explore.
What if my passport or consular ID is expired?
An expired passport or consular ID can still be used as proof of identity for a driver's license. The DMV accepts expired documents for identity purposes. Make sure the document clearly shows your name and photo.
Can I get an AB 60 license if I have a criminal record?
A criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from getting a driver's license. The DMV will deny a license only if you have certain serious convictions or if your driving privileges are suspended. Contact the DMV or a legal aid organization to find out whether your specific record affects your may be able to access.
How long does the AB 60 license stay valid?
An AB 60 license is valid for five years from the date of issue, the same as a standard California license. You can renew it online, by mail, or in person at the DMV using the same process as any other license renewal.