What an AB 60 License Is and Who Can Get One

California's AB 60 driver license is a standard California driver license issued to people who cannot prove a Social Security number. It works exactly like any other California license for driving purposes — you can use it to drive legally, rent a car, or show as ID at a bank or airport. The only meaningful difference is that it does not connect to the federal REAL ID system, so you cannot use it to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building that requires REAL ID.

You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or have legal immigration status to get an AB 60 license. You need to be at least 16 years old (or 15 years 6 months for a permit), live in California, and pass the written and driving tests like anyone else. The state does not verify immigration status or report you to immigration authorities when you explore.

The law took effect in January 2015 and has issued over 1 million licenses since then. It is a permanent California document, not a temporary one, and renews every five years like a standard license.

Key Takeaways

  • An AB 60 license lets you drive legally in California and use it as ID for most purposes, but not for federal REAL ID requirements like domestic air travel.
  • You do not need a Social Security number, citizenship, or legal immigration status to get one — only proof of California residency and passing the driving test.
  • The process process is the same as a regular license: written test, driving test, and document verification at the DMV.
  • You will need to bring documents proving your identity and California residency, such as a passport, consular ID, utility bill, or lease agreement.
  • Insurance companies will write policies for AB 60 license holders, though some may charge more or require additional verification.

Documents You Need to Bring to the DMV

The California DMV requires two categories of documents: proof of identity and proof of California residency. You cannot use a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) as your only form of ID.

For identity, you can bring a valid passport, a consular ID (matrícula consular) issued by your country's consulate, a birth certificate, or a foreign national ID card. The document must show your name, date of birth, and a photo (if the document type normally includes one). If you bring a birth certificate, you will also need a second ID document like a school ID or work permit.

For residency, bring one document showing your name and a California address from the past three months. A utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail all work. If you do not have a document in your name, you can bring a letter from a landlord, employer, or shelter on letterhead confirming your address, plus a second document showing your name (like a school enrollment letter or work permit).

Bring your current driver license or permit if you have one, your Social Security card if you have one (it is optional), and your completed DL 44 form. You can fill this out at home or at the DMV office.

How the Testing and Approval Process Works

The written test covers California traffic laws and safe driving practices. It is the same test everyone takes — 36 questions, and you need 30 correct to pass. You can take it in English or one of several other languages. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another time.

After you pass the written test, you schedule a driving test. The DMV will test your ability to start the car, control steering, brake safely, turn, park, and follow traffic signs. You must bring your own vehicle, and it must be registered and insured. If you do not have a vehicle, some DMV offices allow you to use a test vehicle for a fee, but availability varies by location — call ahead to ask.

Once you pass both tests, the DMV issues your license on the spot or mails it within two weeks. There is no separate background check or waiting period beyond the test results. The license is valid for five years from the date of issue.

Insurance Requirements and Costs for AB 60 Drivers

California law requires all drivers to carry liability insurance, whether you have an AB 60 license or a standard license. You must have at least $15,000 in bodily injury coverage per person and $30,000 per accident, plus $5,000 in property damage coverage. These are the state minimums.

Most major insurance companies will insure AB 60 license holders. Geico, State Farm, Progressive, and Allstate all write policies for drivers with AB 60 licenses. Some smaller or regional insurers may decline, so you may need to call a few companies to find one that will take you. A few insurers may ask for additional documents like a passport or consular ID to verify your identity, but this is routine and does not affect your ability to get coverage.

Insurance rates for AB 60 drivers vary by company, driving record, age, vehicle type, and location — the same factors that affect any driver. You are not automatically charged more for having an AB 60 license. If a company quotes you a higher rate than others, it is usually because of your driving history or the vehicle you are insuring, not the license type itself. Shop around by calling at least three companies before buying a policy.

Once you have insurance, you must carry proof of it in your vehicle at all times. You can show a printed policy, a digital copy on your phone, or an insurance card. If you are stopped by police, show your AB 60 license and your proof of insurance together.

What You Cannot Do With an AB 60 License

An AB 60 license is not a REAL ID. You cannot use it to board a domestic flight within the United States, enter a federal courthouse, or access a military base. If you need to fly, you must bring a passport or other REAL ID-compliant document to the airport instead of your driver license.

Some employers and government agencies may not accept an AB 60 license as proof of identity for hiring or benefits purposes, depending on their own policies. If you are explore for a job or a government benefit, ask the employer or agency in advance whether an AB 60 license is acceptable, or bring a passport as backup.

You cannot use an AB 60 license to sponsor a family member for immigration purposes or to prove lawful presence for any federal program. The license itself does not change your immigration status or create any legal right to work or live in the United States.

Renewing Your AB 60 License

Your AB 60 license expires five years from the date it was issued. The DMV will mail you a renewal notice about 60 days before expiration. You can renew online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office.

If you renew online or by mail, you do not need to retake the written or driving test. You will need to pay the renewal fee (currently $39 for a five-year renewal) and confirm that your address and other information are still correct. If you have moved, update your address before renewing.

If you renew in person, bring the same documents you brought for your original license — proof of identity and proof of current California residency. If your identity document has expired, you will need to bring a new one or a second identity document that is still valid.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The DMV does not check immigration status or ask about deportation history. However, if you are subject to a deportation order or have been ordered to leave the country, you should speak with an immigration attorney before explore, as driving with a license while under a deportation order could complicate your legal situation.

Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration case or future citizenship process?

No. The DMV does not report AB 60 applicants to immigration authorities, and having a driver license does not help or hurt a citizenship or legal status process. An immigration attorney can advise you on how any government document might affect your specific case.

Can I use an AB 60 license to rent a car?

Yes. Most car rental companies accept AB 60 licenses. Some may ask for a passport or consular ID as additional ID, but this is standard practice for any driver. Call the rental company ahead of time if you want to confirm their policy.

What happens if I move out of California?

Your AB 60 license remains valid in California only. If you move to another state, you will need to get a driver license from that state. Most states do not issue licenses without a Social Security number, so you should research your new state's requirements before you move.

Can I get a REAL ID if I have an AB 60 license?

No. REAL ID requires proof of a Social Security number or a document showing lawful presence in the United States. If you do not have either, you cannot get a REAL ID license. You can use your passport or consular ID for federal purposes instead.