California allows you to get a driver's license regardless of immigration status
California issues driver's licenses to people without legal immigration status through the AB 60 program, which began in 2015. You do not need a Social Security number, a valid visa, or proof of legal residency. The license is valid for driving only — it does not confer immigration status, work authorization, or any other legal benefit, and it cannot be used as federal identification for air travel or entry to federal buildings.
The license itself looks identical to a standard California driver's license but is marked "AB 60" on the front. Insurance companies, employers, and law enforcement can see this marking. Some states do not recognize AB 60 licenses for certain purposes, so if you plan to drive across state lines regularly, check the rules in those states before you explore.
Key Takeaways
- California issues AB 60 driver's licenses to people without legal immigration status, and you do not need a Social Security number or proof of residency to get one.
- The process requires proof of identity (passport, consular ID, or other document from your country of origin) and proof of California residence (utility bill, lease, or bank statement).
- You must pass the written test, vision test, and driving test the same way any other applicant does.
- The AB 60 license is marked on the front and cannot be used for federal identification, but it is valid for driving and obtaining car insurance in California.
What documents you need to bring to the DMV
The California Department of Motor Vehicles requires two categories of documents: proof of identity and proof of residence. For proof of identity, you can use a passport, a consular ID card (matrícula consular) issued by your country's embassy or consulate, a national ID card, or a birth certificate paired with another document that shows your name and date of birth. The document must be original or certified — photocopies alone are not accepted.
For proof of residence, bring a document dated within the last 60 days showing your California address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank or credit card statement, government check, paystub, or property tax bill. A cell phone bill or insurance document also works. You need only one document, but it must show your full name and current address.
Bring your completed process form (DL 44 for a new license or DL 43 for a renewal). You can fill it out at home or at the DMV office. You will also need to pay the process fee, which is the same for AB 60 licenses as for standard licenses — currently $39 for a four-year license or $64 for an eight-year license, though fees change periodically.
The testing process is the same as for any driver
After you submit your documents, you will take the written test (the knowledge test covering California traffic laws), the vision test, and the behind-the-wheel driving test. These are identical to what any other applicant takes. You can study using the California Driver Handbook, available free on the DMV website in multiple languages including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and others.
You must pass the written test before you can schedule the driving test. Many DMV offices allow you to take the written test on the same day you submit your process, though wait times vary by location. Once you pass the written test, you can schedule the driving test at a later appointment. Bring your own vehicle or arrange for someone else to bring one — the DMV does not provide test vehicles.
How the AB 60 license differs from a standard California license
The AB 60 license has "AB 60" printed on the front, making it visually distinct from a standard license. This marking tells anyone who sees the license — including police officers, employers, and insurance agents — that it was issued under the AB 60 program. Some employers may have policies about which forms of ID they accept, so you may want to ask about this before you start a job.
The AB 60 license cannot be used as federal identification. You cannot use it to board a domestic flight, enter a federal building, or explore for federal benefits. For those purposes, you would need a passport or other federally accepted ID. However, it is fully valid for driving in California and for obtaining auto insurance — insurance companies are required to issue policies to AB 60 license holders.
The license is valid for four or eight years, depending on which term you choose. Renewal works the same way as the initial process: you bring proof of identity and residence, pay the renewal fee, and take the vision test. You do not need to retake the written or driving tests unless the DMV has specific reason to require it.
Where to explore and what to expect at the DMV
You explore at any California DMV office. You can find the nearest one and check current wait times on the DMV website. Some offices are busier than others, and wait times can be several hours, especially in urban areas. You can make an appointment online through the DMV website, which often reduces wait time significantly. Appointments typically fill up weeks in advance, so plan ahead.
Bring all your documents in original form or certified copies. The DMV staff will review your documents, take your photo and fingerprints, and collect your fee. If your documents are incomplete or unclear, the DMV may ask you to return with additional paperwork. Processing time for the license itself is typically two to three weeks after you pass all tests — the DMV will mail it to the address you provide.
Insurance and driving with an AB 60 license
California law requires all drivers to carry auto insurance, and insurance companies must issue policies to AB 60 license holders. When you contact an insurance company, tell them you have an AB 60 license. Some companies may ask additional questions or require different documentation, but they cannot refuse to insure you solely because of the AB 60 marking.
If you are stopped by police, show your AB 60 license along with proof of insurance and vehicle registration. The license is valid for driving purposes. Immigration enforcement is separate from traffic enforcement — a traffic stop does not automatically trigger an immigration check, though local circumstances vary. If you have concerns about your specific situation, you may want to consult with an immigration attorney before driving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration case or status?
A driver's license is a state document and does not affect federal immigration proceedings. However, if you are in removal proceedings or have a pending immigration case, consult with your immigration attorney before explore, as they may have specific information based on your situation.
Can I use an AB 60 license to travel between states?
You can drive with it in any state, but some states do not recognize AB 60 licenses for certain purposes. Check the rules in states where you plan to drive regularly. For example, some states will not accept it as proof of identity for hotel check-in or other transactions.
What if I don't have a passport or consular ID?
You can use a national ID card, birth certificate paired with another document showing your name and date of birth, or other identity documents from your country of origin. The DMV accepts a wide range of documents — contact your local DMV office to ask whether a specific document will work.
How long does it take to get the license after I pass the tests?
The DMV typically mails the license within two to three weeks after you pass all tests and pay the fee. You will receive a temporary paper license at the DMV office that you can use for driving while you wait for the plastic card to arrive.
Can I renew an AB 60 license online?
Some renewals can be done by mail or online if you meet certain conditions, but most AB 60 renewals require an in-person visit to the DMV to verify your identity and residence documents. Check the DMV website or call your local office to find out whether your renewal can be handled remotely.