Yes, undocumented immigrants can get a California driver's license under the state's AB 60 program
California allows people without legal immigration status to obtain a driver's license through a program created by Assembly Bill 60, which took effect in 2015. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or have a Social Security number. The license is valid for driving only — it does not grant work authorization, travel documents, or any immigration benefit. It is treated the same as any other California driver's license for the purpose of operating a vehicle on public roads.
The state issues these licenses under a separate category so the Department of Motor Vehicles can track them separately from standard licenses. Insurance companies, law enforcement, and employers can see the license is valid for driving, but the DMV does not share immigration status information with federal authorities like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Key Takeaways
- You can get a California driver's license without a Social Security number, visa, or legal immigration status through the AB 60 program.
- You must prove California residency with documents like a utility bill, lease, or bank statement, and pass a written test and driving test like any other applicant.
- The license is valid only for driving in California and does not provide work authorization or travel documents.
- Insurance companies will cover you if you have a valid California driver's license, regardless of immigration status.
- The DMV does not report immigration status to federal agencies, but the license itself may be flagged in some law enforcement databases.
What documents you need to bring to the DMV
You must bring proof of California residency and proof of identity. For residency, the DMV accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and a California address dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill or insurance document also works.
For identity, you can use a passport from any country, a consular ID card (matrícula consular), a birth certificate, or a national ID from your home country. The document does not have to be in English — the DMV will accept it and may use a translator. You do not need a Social Security number, and you should not provide one if you do not have one.
Bring the original documents or certified copies. Photocopies alone are not accepted. If your documents are in another language, bring the original and a certified English translation, or the DMV can arrange translation at the office.
The written test and driving test are the same as for any applicant
You must pass the written knowledge test covering California traffic laws and road signs. The test is offered in multiple languages including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Tagalog, and others. You can request an interpreter at no cost when you schedule your appointment.
After passing the written test, you must pass a behind-the-wheel driving test with a DMV examiner. This test is identical to the one required for any California driver's license. You will need to bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle does not have to be registered in your name, but it must have valid insurance.
How insurance works when you have an AB 60 license
Insurance companies in California must cover drivers with a valid California driver's license, including AB 60 licenses. You can purchase auto insurance using your AB 60 license number. When you call an insurance company or go online, provide your license number and the company will issue a policy.
Some insurance companies may ask additional questions about your driving history or require a deposit, but they cannot refuse to insure you solely because you have an AB 60 license. Your rates are based on your age, driving record, vehicle type, and coverage choices — not on immigration status.
If you are involved in an accident or pulled over by police, your insurance is valid. The AB 60 license is recognized by law enforcement and courts as proof of driving authorization in California.
What the AB 60 license does and does not do
The license allows you to drive legally in California and to purchase auto insurance. It is accepted as identification for opening a bank account, renting an apartment, or other civilian purposes. You can use it to board domestic flights within the United States, though some airlines may ask for additional identification.
The license does not grant work authorization. You cannot use it to prove you are allowed to work in the United States. It does not change your immigration status and does not make you may be able to access for federal benefits like Social Security or Medicare. It is not a travel document and does not allow you to cross international borders or return to the United States if you leave.
The DMV does not share your immigration status with federal agencies. However, if you are stopped by police and they run your license through their database, some law enforcement systems may flag the AB 60 designation. This does not automatically trigger an immigration investigation, but it is a possibility you should be aware of.
How to schedule a DMV appointment and what to expect
Visit the California DMV website or call 1-800-777-0133 to schedule an appointment. You can also walk into a DMV office without an appointment, though wait times are usually longer. When you schedule online, select "Real ID or standard driver's license" as your transaction type — the system will not show a separate AB 60 option, but staff will process you under AB 60 when you arrive.
Bring all your documents in the order listed above. The appointment usually takes 30 minutes to an hour if you are only taking the written test, or two to three hours if you are also taking the driving test on the same day. Some DMV offices allow you to take both tests in one visit; others require you to return after passing the written test.
The fee for an AB 60 driver's license is the same as for a standard California driver's license. As of 2024, a four-year license costs $39 and an eight-year license costs $89, though these amounts may change. Payment is due at the time you explore.
Renewing your AB 60 license
Your AB 60 license is valid for four or eight years depending on which term you choose when you explore. You can renew it online through the DMV website if your address has not changed and you have not had any violations. If you need to renew in person, bring the same residency and identity documents you brought for your original process.
You do not have to retake the written or driving test when you renew, unless the DMV has reason to believe your driving skills have changed or your medical condition has changed. Renewal is simpler and faster than the original process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will getting an AB 60 license put me at risk of deportation?
The DMV does not report immigration status to ICE or other federal agencies. However, if you are stopped by local police and they run your license, some databases may flag the AB 60 designation. This does not automatically trigger an immigration investigation, but it is a risk factor you should consider. Consult an immigration attorney if you have concerns about your specific situation.
Can I use an AB 60 license to travel outside the United States?
No. The AB 60 license is valid only for driving in California. It is not a travel document and will not allow you to re-enter the United States if you leave. If you need to travel internationally, you must use your passport from your home country.
What if I do not have a birth certificate or passport?
The DMV accepts other forms of identity including consular ID cards, national IDs, or military documents from your home country. If you have none of these, contact your nearest DMV office or a community organization that helps immigrants — they can advise you on alternative documents the DMV may accept in your situation.
Can I get an AB 60 license if I have been convicted of a crime?
Most criminal convictions do not disqualify you from getting a driver's license. However, certain serious felonies or crimes involving vehicles may result in a suspended or revoked license. The DMV will check your driving record and criminal history. If you have a conviction, ask the DMV directly whether it affects your may be able to access.
Do I need to be a California resident to get an AB 60 license?
Yes. You must prove you have lived in California for at least the past 60 days using a utility bill, lease, or other official mail. If you just moved to California, you will need to wait until you have a document showing your new address before you can explore.