What AB 60 Means for Your California Driver License

AB 60 is a California law that lets you get a driver license even if you don't have a Social Security number or proof of legal residency in the United States. You don't need to show immigration documents, and the license you receive works the same way as any other California driver license — it's valid for driving, and you can use it at banks, airports, and other places that accept state ID.

The law took effect on January 1, 2015, and has been in place for nearly a decade. If you've been unable to get a license because you lack a Social Security number or don't have documents proving you live in California legally, AB 60 is the path available to you.

Key Takeaways

  • You can get an AB 60 driver license without a Social Security number or proof of legal residency, using alternative documents to show identity and California residency instead.
  • The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) accepts a specific list of documents for identity and residency — you need at least one from each category.
  • You must pass the written test, vision test, and behind-the-wheel driving test, just like any other driver license applicant.
  • An AB 60 license looks the same as a standard California driver license and is valid for all driving purposes within California.
  • The DMV charges the same fees for an AB 60 license as for a regular license, and processing takes the same amount of time.

Documents You Need to Prove Identity and Residency

The DMV requires you to bring documents that prove who you are and that you live in California. You cannot use a Social Security number or immigration documents to meet these requirements. Instead, you'll use alternative documents from the DMV's approved list.

For identity, the DMV accepts documents such as a passport from any country, a consular ID card, a birth certificate, a marriage certificate, a divorce decree, or a school record. You need at least one document that shows your name and date of birth.

For California residency, you need documents showing your name and a California address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a vehicle registration, a bank or credit card statement, or a government benefit statement. The document must be dated within the last 12 months. You need at least one residency document.

Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone are not accepted. If a document is in another language, bring the original and an official English translation.

The Written Test, Vision Test, and Driving Test

An AB 60 license requires you to pass the same tests as any other California driver license applicant. You must pass a written knowledge test, a vision screening, and a behind-the-wheel driving test with a DMV examiner.

The written test covers California traffic laws and safe driving practices. You can take it in English or in one of several other languages the DMV offers. You get two chances to pass; if you fail, you can retake it after waiting at least one day. Most people study using the California Driver Handbook, which is free and available online and at DMV offices.

The vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If you fail the vision test, you may be able to retake it after getting an eye exam and bringing a vision correction certificate from an eye doctor.

The behind-the-wheel test lasts about 20 minutes. A DMV examiner sits in the car with you and watches you drive on local streets. You must show that you can control the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond safely to other drivers and pedestrians. You get two chances to pass within a 12-month period.

How to Schedule Your DMV Appointment

You must make an appointment with the DMV before you go in person. Walk-ins are not accepted for driver license tests. You can schedule online at the California DMV website, by phone at 1-800-777-0133, or in person at a DMV office.

When you schedule, tell the DMV that you are explore under AB 60. This helps the office prepare and ensures the staff knows what documents to expect. Have your documents ready when you call or book online so you can provide your information accurately.

Processing times vary by location and how busy the DMV is. Most appointments are available within a few weeks, though some offices may have longer waits. Once you pass all tests, your license is usually issued the same day or within a few days.

What Your AB 60 License Looks Like and How You Can Use It

An AB 60 driver license looks identical to a standard California driver license. It has your photo, name, date of birth, address, and license number. There is no marking or notation that says it was issued under AB 60 — the DMV does not distinguish it on the card itself.

You can use your AB 60 license to drive anywhere in California and to cross state lines for driving purposes. You can also use it as identification at banks, airports, and other places that accept a state driver license. However, it is not accepted as proof of citizenship or legal residency for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building — for those, you would need a Real ID-compliant document, which AB 60 licenses are not.

If you want a Real ID-compliant license or ID card for air travel or federal building access, you would need to show proof of legal residency in the United States, which AB 60 does not require. That is a separate process through the DMV.

Fees and Renewal

The DMV charges the same fees for an AB 60 driver license as for a regular California driver license. As of 2024, a driver license costs $39 if you're renewing or $39 for a new license. Fees can change, so check the DMV website for current pricing.

Your AB 60 license is valid for five years from the date it is issued. When it expires, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person at a DMV office. Renewal by mail or online is usually cheaper and faster than explore for a new license in person.

If you renew by mail or online, you do not need to retake the written or driving tests — only your vision will be checked. If you renew in person, you may be asked to take a new photo and pass a vision test, but not the written or driving tests again.

What Happens If You Don't Have All the Documents

If you don't have the documents listed above, talk to the DMV before your appointment. The DMV has a process for people who cannot obtain certain documents. You may be able to bring a notarized statement explaining why you don't have a document, or you may be able to bring alternative documents that the DMV will review.

Call the DMV at 1-800-777-0133 or visit a local office to ask what options are available in your situation. Bring whatever documents you do have so the staff can see what you're working with. The DMV wants to help you get a license if you meet the basic requirements, and they understand that not everyone has access to all standard documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an AB 60 license to fly on an airplane?

No. An AB 60 license is not Real ID-compliant, so you cannot use it to board a domestic flight. You would need a Real ID-compliant driver license or ID card, which requires proof of legal residency. However, you can use your AB 60 license to drive to the airport and for all other driving purposes.

Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration status?

No. The DMV does not share driver license information with immigration authorities. AB 60 was designed specifically so that people without legal residency status could get a license without fear. Your information is kept confidential by the DMV.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test. You get two chances to pass within a 12-month period. After your first failure, you can schedule another test appointment. Many people pass on their second try after practicing more.

Can I get an AB 60 license if I'm not a California resident?

No. You must show that you live in California using one of the approved residency documents. If you live in another state, you would need to get a license in that state instead.

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

Usually the same day or within a few days. The DMV issues most licenses on the spot after you pass all tests. In some cases, if there's a delay in processing, you may receive it by mail within one to two weeks.