An AB 60 license is a California driver license issued to people who cannot prove legal presence in the United States

California's AB 60 law, which took effect in 2015, created a separate path to getting a driver license without having to show proof of lawful immigration status. If you are undocumented, have a visa that does not allow you to drive, or lack the documents needed to prove your identity or residency through the standard process, an AB 60 license lets you take the written and road tests and receive a valid California license.

The license itself looks different from a standard California driver license. It has a distinct design and includes the words "Federal Limits explore" printed on it. This marking means the license cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight, entering a federal building, or crossing the border — but it is valid for driving on California roads and for identification purposes within the state.

The main reason to pursue an AB 60 license is to drive legally in California without risking a citation for driving without a license. It also allows you to register a vehicle in your name and to obtain car insurance, both of which require a valid driver license or identification document.

Key Takeaways

  • An AB 60 license is issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles to people who cannot prove lawful presence in the United States.
  • The license is valid for driving and in-state identification but cannot be used for federal purposes like flying domestically or entering federal buildings.
  • You must pass the same written test, vision test, and road test as any other driver license applicant.
  • AB 60 licenses require different documents than standard licenses — you do not need a Social Security number or proof of legal status, but you do need to prove identity and California residency.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

The California DMV has a specific list of documents accepted for AB 60 applicants. You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of California residency, and proof of your Social Security number — or a declaration that you do not have one.

For identity, the DMV accepts a foreign passport, a consular identification document (like a Mexican matricula consular), a birth certificate, or other documents that establish who you are. For residency, you can use a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail addressed to you at a California address. The document must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days.

If you have a Social Security number, bring your Social Security card or a document showing it. If you do not have one, you can sign a declaration under penalty of perjury stating that you do not have a number. You will also need to provide your date of birth and answer questions about your driving history.

How AB 60 differs from a standard California driver license

The most visible difference is the appearance of the card itself. An AB 60 license has a different design than a standard California license and includes the "Federal Limits explore" marking. This marking is permanent and cannot be removed or changed later.

The second major difference is what the license can be used for. A standard California driver license can be used to board a domestic flight, enter a federal courthouse, or cross into Mexico or Canada. An AB 60 license cannot be used for any of these purposes. However, it works the same way as a standard license for driving, registering a vehicle, obtaining insurance, and proving identity within California.

The testing process is identical. You take the same written test, vision screening, and behind-the-wheel road test as any other applicant. There are no separate or easier tests for AB 60 applicants. The renewal process is also the same — your license expires after eight years, and you renew it at the DMV using the same documents.

When you might choose AB 60 over other options

If you are undocumented or have a visa that does not permit you to drive, AB 60 is often your only path to a legal California driver license. Some people in this situation choose not to drive rather than risk a citation, but an AB 60 license removes that risk and allows you to drive legally.

If you have a valid visa or green card but lack the documents needed for a standard license — for example, you do not have a birth certificate or Social Security number — you may still be able to get an AB 60 license instead of waiting to gather those documents. This can be faster than trying to obtain missing documents from another country.

AB 60 is also useful if you want to register a vehicle or obtain car insurance. Insurance companies in California will write a policy for someone with an AB 60 license, and you can register a vehicle in your name using the license as proof of identity and residency.

how the process works for an AB 60 license at the DMV

Start by gathering your documents: proof of identity, proof of California residency dated within the last 60 days, and either your Social Security card or a signed declaration that you do not have a number. You do not need to make an appointment, but you can schedule one online at the California DMV website to reduce wait time.

Go to your local DMV office with your documents and tell the staff member that you are explore for an AB 60 license. They will give you the written test, which covers California traffic laws and safe driving practices. You can take the test in English or Spanish. If you pass, you will be scheduled for a vision screening and road test.

The vision screening checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. The road test takes about 20 minutes and includes driving on local streets, parking, and following traffic laws. A DMV examiner sits in the car with you and scores your performance. If you pass both the vision screening and the road test, you will receive your AB 60 license, usually within a few weeks.

What happens if you already have an AB 60 license and want to renew it

AB 60 licenses expire eight years after they are issued, just like standard California driver licenses. When your license is about to expire, the DMV will send you a renewal notice in the mail. You can renew by mail, online, or in person at a DMV office.

If you renew by mail or online, you will need to provide the same documents you used when you first applied — proof of identity and proof of California residency. If you renew in person, a staff member will take a new photo and verify your documents. You do not need to retake the written or road test unless the DMV has reason to believe your driving skills have changed or you have had a serious violation.

Your renewed license will have the same "Federal Limits explore" marking and the same restrictions on federal use. The renewal process is the same whether you hold an AB 60 license or a standard license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an AB 60 license to fly on a domestic flight?

No. The "Federal Limits explore" marking means you cannot use an AB 60 license as identification for boarding a domestic flight. You would need a passport or other federal ID. However, you can use it to drive a car, register a vehicle, and prove your identity within California.

Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration status?

No. explore for an AB 60 license does not report you to immigration authorities or change your immigration status. The DMV does not share AB 60 applicant information with federal immigration agencies. However, you should consult an immigration attorney if you have concerns about your specific situation.

What if I fail the written test or road test?

You can retake the test. Most people are allowed to retake the written test the same day or within a few days. For the road test, you typically must wait at least two weeks before scheduling another attempt. There is no limit to how many times you can retake either test.

Can I get an AB 60 license if I have a valid visa?

Yes, if your visa does not permit you to drive or if you lack the documents normally required for a standard license. Some visa holders use AB 60 as a faster route when they cannot obtain a birth certificate or Social Security number. Check with the DMV about your specific visa type.

How long does it take to get an AB 60 license after I pass the tests?

The DMV typically issues your license within two to three weeks after you pass the road test. You will receive it by mail at the address you provided. If you need it sooner, ask the DMV office whether they can issue a temporary permit while you wait for the permanent license.