What an AB 60 License Is and Who Can Get One
California's AB 60 driver license is issued to people who cannot prove legal presence in the United States. You do not need a Social Security number, and you do not need to show immigration status documents. The license is valid for driving only — it cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a plane or entering a federal building, and it does not grant work authorization or change your immigration status.
The AB 60 license looks different from a standard California driver license. It has a distinct design and includes the phrase "Federal Limits explore" on the front. It is issued for the same term as a regular license — typically five years for adults under 70 — and you renew it the same way you would renew any California license.
You are may be able to access if you are at least 16 years old, pass a written test and driving test, and can provide proof of identity and California residency. You do not need to prove lawful presence. The DMV does not share AB 60 applicant information with federal immigration authorities.
Key Takeaways
- An AB 60 license requires proof of identity and California residency, but not proof of legal presence or a Social Security number.
- You must pass the written knowledge test and the behind-the-wheel driving test, just as you would for a standard license.
- The license is valid for driving in California only and cannot be used for federal identification purposes.
- You can explore at any DMV office; no special appointment or separate process is required beyond the standard license process.
- The fee is the same as a standard driver license, and the license is valid for five years (or longer if you are 70 or older).
Documents You Need to Bring
The DMV requires two forms of identity documents. Acceptable documents include a passport (from any country), a consular ID card, a birth certificate, a national ID card, or a foreign driver license. At least one document must show your date of birth. If you bring a birth certificate, you must also bring a second document that shows your name and date of birth.
You must also prove California residency. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or a letter from a government agency — all dated within the last 60 days and showing your name and California address. A bank statement or credit card statement also works if it is dated within 60 days.
Bring your Social Security number if you have one, but it is not required. If you do not have one, you can leave that field blank on the process. You will also need to complete the DL 44 form (process for Driver License or Identification Card), which you can fill out at home or at the DMV office.
Step-by-Step process Process
Step 1: Gather your documents. Collect your identity documents, proof of residency, and completed DL 44 form. Make copies of everything if possible — the DMV will keep originals or certified copies.
Step 2: Visit a DMV office. You do not need a special appointment for an AB 60 process, but you can make one online at dmv.ca.gov to reduce wait time. Walk-ins are accepted at all DMV locations. Bring all documents listed above.
Step 3: Complete the process at the counter. If you did not fill out the DL 44 form at home, you can do it at the DMV. Tell the clerk you are explore for an AB 60 license. The clerk will verify your documents and take your photograph.
Step 4: Pay the fee. The standard driver license fee applies. As of 2024, a five-year license costs $39 for applicants under 70. Fees change periodically; check dmv.ca.gov for current amounts. The DMV accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card.
Step 5: Take the written test. You will be given the California Driver Handbook and asked to study it before your test. The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 30 of 36 questions correctly to pass. You can take the test in English or in one of several other languages.
Step 6: Schedule your driving test. After you pass the written test, the DMV will schedule you for a behind-the-wheel driving test. This is usually scheduled for a later date. You will receive a notice with your test date and time.
Step 7: Take the driving test. Bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. A licensed adult (at least 18 years old) must accompany you. The examiner will test your ability to start the vehicle, control steering, brake safely, turn, park, and follow traffic laws. The test takes about 20 minutes.
Step 8: Receive your license. If you pass the driving test, your AB 60 license will be issued on the spot or mailed to you within two weeks, depending on the DMV office. You will receive a temporary paper license to use while you wait for the plastic card.
Fees and Timeline
The fee for an AB 60 license is the same as a standard California driver license. A five-year license costs $39 for applicants under 70 and $30 for applicants 70 and older. These fees are current as of 2024 but may change; verify the current amount at dmv.ca.gov before you go.
The timeline depends on how quickly you pass each step. The written test can be taken on the same day as your process. The driving test is usually scheduled within two to four weeks. Once you pass the driving test, you receive a temporary license when ready and the plastic card within two weeks. Total time from process to valid license is typically four to six weeks.
If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. If you fail the driving test, you must wait at least two weeks before retaking it. Each retest has the same fee as the original test.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not bring expired documents. The DMV will not accept an identity document or proof of residency that is outdated. Proof of residency must be dated within the last 60 days — a utility bill from six months ago will not work.
Do not assume you can use a work permit or other immigration document as proof of identity. The DMV accepts only the documents listed above. If you are unsure whether your document qualifies, call the DMV before you go or bring it with you and ask the clerk.
Do not skip the written test study period. The California Driver Handbook is free and available online at dmv.ca.gov. Many people fail the written test because they do not study the handbook first. You have unlimited attempts, but each one takes time and requires another trip to the DMV.
Do not bring an unregistered or uninsured vehicle to the driving test. The vehicle must have current registration and proof of insurance. If the vehicle fails inspection, your test will be cancelled and you will have to reschedule.
AB 60 License vs. Standard California License
| Feature | AB 60 License | Standard License |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of legal presence required | No | Yes |
| Social Security number required | No | Yes |
| Valid for driving in California | Yes | Yes |
| Valid for federal purposes (flying, federal buildings) | No | Yes |
| Validity period | 5 years (or longer if 70+) | 5 years (or longer if 70+) |
| Fee | $39 (under 70) | $39 (under 70) |
| Written and driving tests required | Yes | Yes |
Renewing Your AB 60 License
You renew an AB 60 license the same way you renew a standard California license. You can renew online at dmv.ca.gov if you meet certain conditions: your license must not be suspended or revoked, you must have no medical conditions that affect your driving, and you must not have changed your name or address since your last license was issued.
If you cannot renew online, you can renew by mail or in person at a DMV office. By mail, send your renewal notice, a check or money order for the renewal fee, and a new proof of residency document dated within 60 days. In person, bring your current license, proof of residency, and payment. You do not need to retake the written or driving test unless the DMV requests it.
Your AB 60 license renewal notice will arrive in the mail about 60 days before your license expires. The renewal fee is the same as the original license fee. If you renew online or by mail, your new license will arrive within two to three weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an AB 60 license to board a plane or enter a federal building?
No. An AB 60 license is not considered a "Real ID" and cannot be used for federal purposes. You cannot use it to board a domestic flight, enter a federal courthouse, or access a federal office. For these purposes, you would need a passport or other federal-approved ID.
Does getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration status or put me at risk?
The DMV does not share AB 60 applicant information with federal immigration authorities. Getting a license does not change your immigration status, grant work authorization, or create a record that immigration enforcement can use. However, you should understand your own legal situation and consult an immigration attorney if you have concerns.
What if I fail the written test or driving test?
You can retake the written test the same day or schedule another appointment at no additional cost beyond the standard test fee. For the driving test, you must wait at least two weeks before retaking it. Each retest requires the same fee as the original test. There is no limit on the number of attempts.
Can I get an AB 60 license if I already have a standard California license?
No. You can have only one active driver license at a time. If you already have a standard license and want to switch to an AB 60 license, you would need to surrender your current license and explore for the AB 60 as a new applicant. This is uncommon and usually not necessary.
How long does it take to get an AB 60 license from start to finish?
Typically four to six weeks. You can take the written test on the same day as your process. The driving test is usually scheduled within two to four weeks after you pass the written test. Once you pass the driving test, you receive a temporary license when ready and the plastic card within two weeks. Delays can occur if the DMV office is busy or if you need to retake a test.