An AB 60 license is valid for five years from the date of issue, the same as a standard California driver's license

California's AB 60 license — officially called an AB 60 driver's license — does not expire sooner than a regular license. You get five years before renewal is due, whether you obtained it under AB 60 or through the standard licensing process. The expiration date is printed on the front of your card, so you can check exactly when yours runs out.

The five-year term applies to all adult AB 60 licenses issued in California. If you received your AB 60 license on March 15, 2023, for example, it expires on March 15, 2028. You do not need to renew it before that date, and renewing early does not extend the total validity period — the new card will straightforward have a new five-year window from the renewal date.

Key Takeaways

  • An AB 60 license is valid for exactly five years from the issue date printed on the card.
  • You can renew your AB 60 license up to 60 days before it expires, either in person at the DMV or online through the California DMV website.
  • Driving with an expired AB 60 license is illegal in California and can result in a traffic citation.
  • The renewal process for an AB 60 license follows the same steps and requires the same documents as your original process.

When to start the renewal process

The California DMV recommends starting your renewal about 60 days before your expiration date. This gives you time to gather documents, schedule an appointment if you prefer in-person service, or complete the online renewal without rushing. You can legally renew up to 60 days early — the DMV will issue a new card with a fresh five-year validity period.

If you wait until the last week before expiration, you may face longer wait times at DMV offices, especially in busy areas. Online renewal is typically faster if you are may be able to access, so checking the DMV website 60 to 90 days before expiration lets you see whether you can renew that way or need to visit in person.

Online renewal versus in-person renewal

Not all AB 60 license holders can renew online. The California DMV allows online renewal only if your license has not been suspended or revoked, you have not had any major violations, and your address and other information have not changed significantly. If you meet these conditions, you can renew through the DMV website without visiting an office.

If you cannot renew online, you must visit a DMV office in person. You will need to bring your current AB 60 license, proof of California residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and any documents required for your specific situation. The DMV office can tell you which documents you need when you call or check their website for your county.

Documents you will need to renew

For online renewal, you typically need only your current AB 60 license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number or ITIN. The DMV will verify your identity electronically and issue a new card by mail.

For in-person renewal, bring your current AB 60 license and proof of California residency dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable residency documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and address. If you have changed your address since your last license was issued, bring documentation of your new address. If your name has changed, bring a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree showing the change.

What happens if your AB 60 license expires

Driving with an expired license is illegal in California, even if the expiration happened only yesterday. A law enforcement officer can cite you for driving with an expired license, which carries a fine and can result in a point on your driving record. The fine amount varies but typically ranges from $100 to $250 depending on the court and circumstances.

If you are pulled over and your license is expired, you should renew it as soon as possible. If you were cited, you can often resolve the ticket by showing proof of renewal to the court, which may reduce or dismiss the fine. Do not delay renewal — the longer your license remains expired, the greater the legal risk.

Renewing by mail or through a third party

California does not allow AB 60 license renewal by mail. You must renew either online through the DMV website or in person at a DMV office. Some DMV field offices offer appointment-based service, which can reduce wait times compared to walk-in service.

You cannot use a third-party service or have someone else renew your license on your behalf. You must be the one to submit the renewal request, whether online or in person. If you have difficulty visiting a DMV office due to disability or transportation issues, contact your local DMV office to ask about accommodations or alternative service options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive while my AB 60 license renewal is being processed?

Yes, if you renewed online, you can continue driving with your current license until the new card arrives by mail, which typically takes two to three weeks. If you renewed in person, the DMV will issue a temporary paper license valid for 60 days while your card is printed and mailed. Either way, you are legally allowed to drive during the processing period.

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

You will need to replace it rather than renew it. Visit a DMV office with proof of residency and report the loss. The DMV will issue a replacement card with the same expiration date as your original license — you do not get an extra five years. The replacement fee is typically $20 to $30.

Does my AB 60 license expire if I move out of California?

Your AB 60 license remains valid for five years from issue, even if you move. However, if you move to another state, you should obtain a driver's license from that state. Driving in another state with only a California AB 60 license may create legal complications, and most states require you to get a local license within a certain period after moving.

Can I renew my AB 60 license if I no longer live in California?

No. AB 60 licenses are issued only to California residents, and renewal requires proof of current California residency. If you have moved out of state, you cannot renew your AB 60 license. You will need to obtain a driver's license from your new state of residence.