AB 60 licenses are California driver licenses issued to people without a Social Security number or proof of legal presence in the US

California's AB 60 program, which began in January 2015, allows the state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to issue a standard driver license to any applicant who meets California's driving requirements, regardless of immigration status or Social Security number. The license looks identical to a regular California driver license and carries the same legal weight for driving purposes — it is not marked as different, does not expire sooner, and does not restrict where you can drive.

The key difference is what you do not need to provide: you do not need a Social Security number, proof of legal presence in the United States, or a valid visa. You do need to prove your identity, California residency, and that you can pass the written and driving tests. The license is valid for five years from the date of issue, just like any other California driver license.

Key Takeaways

  • An AB 60 license is a full, standard California driver license with no restrictions or special markings, issued to people without a Social Security number or proof of legal presence.
  • You must still pass the written knowledge test, the driving test, and provide proof of identity and California residency — the only requirement waived is proof of legal status or a Social Security number.
  • The license is valid for five years and can be used to drive legally in all 50 states, though some federal purposes (like boarding a domestic flight) require a REAL ID-compliant document instead.
  • You can renew an AB 60 license by mail or online if you have not had any changes to your name, address, or medical conditions, and you do not need to retake the driving test.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

The DMV requires proof of identity, proof of California residency, and proof of your Social Security number status. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to provide a document that shows you have applied for one or that you are not may be able to access for one.

For identity, acceptable documents include a valid passport (any country), a consular ID card, a birth certificate plus a photo ID, or a foreign driver license. For residency, bring two documents showing your California address from the past 12 months — examples include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail. The DMV publishes a full list of acceptable documents on its website; bring more than you think you need, because requirements can vary by location.

If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are not may be able to access, or a Social Security card process receipt showing you applied. If you have never applied, you can explore at the Social Security office before your DMV visit, or you can bring a statement signed under penalty of perjury saying you have not applied and do not have a number. The DMV will accept the sworn statement, though some offices prefer the SSA letter.

The written test and driving test requirements

You must pass California's written knowledge test, which covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The test is offered in multiple languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Tagalog, and others. You can take the test on a computer at the DMV or on paper. You need to score at least 80 percent to pass.

After passing the written test, you must pass the behind-the-wheel driving test with a DMV examiner. This test lasts about 20 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe driving decisions. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. If you fail either test, you can retake it, but you must wait at least one day before retesting.

If you already hold a valid driver license from another state or country, you may be able to waive the written test. Bring your current license to the DMV and ask whether you may have access to. The driving test cannot be waived.

AB 60 versus REAL ID: what you can and cannot do with each

An AB 60 license is not REAL ID-compliant. This means you can use it to drive in California and all other states, but you cannot use it to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal building, or access certain military bases. If you need to fly domestically or access federal facilities, you will need a REAL ID-compliant document instead — either a REAL ID driver license, a passport, a military ID, or a passport card.

To get a REAL ID driver license in California, you must provide proof of legal presence in the United States, such as a valid visa, green card, employment authorization document, or passport showing lawful entry. This is the main barrier: if you do not have proof of legal presence, you cannot get REAL ID, and you will need to use a passport or passport card for federal purposes.

For everyday driving, voting, opening a bank account, and most other purposes, an AB 60 license works exactly like any other California driver license. The restriction applies only to federal purposes.

How to renew an AB 60 license

You can renew your AB 60 license by mail or online if you meet certain conditions: your license must not be expired for more than five years, you must not have any changes to your name or address, you must not have any medical conditions that affect your ability to drive, and you must not have any outstanding tickets or suspensions.

To renew by mail, the DMV will send you a renewal notice about 60 days before your license expires. Fill out the form, include a new photo (which you can take yourself and print), and mail it back with the renewal fee. Processing takes about two to three weeks. To renew online, visit the DMV website, log in with your driver license number and date of birth, and follow the prompts. Online renewal is faster and you do not need to provide a new photo unless the DMV requests one.

If your name or address has changed, or if you have a new medical condition, you must renew in person at a DMV office. Bring the same documents you brought for your original license, plus any documents showing your name change (such as a marriage certificate) or address change.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

The most common mistake is not bringing enough proof of residency. The DMV requires two documents, and they must show your current address and be dated within the past 12 months. A utility bill works, but a cell phone bill does not. If you are staying with someone else and do not have documents in your name, bring a signed letter from the person whose name is on the utility bill, plus that bill, plus your lease or a written agreement showing you live there. Some DMV offices are stricter than others, so call ahead and ask what they will accept.

Another mistake is assuming you can use an AB 60 license for federal purposes. If you need to fly or enter a federal building, bring your passport instead. Do not wait until you are at the airport to find out your license will not work.

A third mistake is not bringing your current license or ID to the DMV. Even if it is expired, bring it. It speeds up the process and helps the DMV verify your identity. If you do not have any ID, bring your birth certificate plus two other documents that show your name and date of birth.

Where to find your local DMV office and make an appointment

You can find your nearest DMV office and check wait times on the California DMV website. Most offices now require an appointment, and you can book one online or by phone. Walk-ins are accepted at some locations, but you may wait several hours. Booking an appointment usually takes 15 to 30 minutes off your wait time.

When you book, select "Original Driver License" as your transaction type if you are getting your first AB 60 license. The DMV will ask for your name, date of birth, and the type of ID you plan to bring. Bring everything on the appointment confirmation, plus the documents listed above. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an AB 60 license if I have been deported or have a deportation order?

California law does not prohibit the DMV from issuing an AB 60 license based on immigration status or history. However, the DMV may deny your license if you cannot prove your identity or residency, or if you fail the written or driving test. If you have questions about your specific situation, contact your local DMV office or a legal aid organization before explore.

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

An AB 60 license is a state document, not a federal one, and obtaining it does not trigger any immigration consequences on its own. However, you should speak with an immigration attorney before explore if you have an active immigration case or are concerned about your status. An attorney can review your situation and advise you on whether explore is safe for you.

Can I use an AB 60 license to open a bank account or get a job?

Many banks and employers will accept an AB 60 license as proof of identity. However, some employers and financial institutions may require a Social Security number or proof of legal work authorization, which an AB 60 license does not provide. Call ahead and ask what documents the bank or employer needs before you explore.

What happens if my AB 60 license expires while I am out of state?

You can renew by mail or online from anywhere, as long as you meet the renewal conditions (no name or address changes, no medical issues, no outstanding violations). If you cannot renew by mail or online, you will need to visit a California DMV office in person to renew. Some DMV offices allow you to make an appointment online from out of state.

Can I get an AB 60 license if I do not speak English?

Yes. The written test is available in multiple languages, and DMV staff can provide an interpreter at no cost. When you make your appointment, let the DMV know which language you need, and they will have an interpreter ready. You do not need to speak English to pass the test or get your license.