Yes, undocumented immigrants can get a California driver's license under the state's AB 60 program

California allows undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver's license through a separate process called an AB 60 license. This license is valid for driving purposes only and does not confer legal status or work authorization. You do not need a Social Security number, proof of lawful presence, or a visa to get one.

The AB 60 license has been available since 2015 and works the same way as a standard California driver's license for road use — it lets you drive legally, satisfies insurance requirements, and is recognized by law enforcement. The main difference is what it cannot do: it cannot be used as federal identification for air travel, entry into federal buildings, or other purposes that require proof of citizenship or legal status.

The process requires you to pass the same written and driving tests as any other applicant, provide documents that prove your identity and California residency, and pay the standard licensing fee. The documents you use do not have to be U.S. government-issued.

Key Takeaways

  • An AB 60 license is a California driver's license for undocumented immigrants that allows you to drive legally but cannot be used for federal identification purposes.
  • You must prove your identity with a foreign passport, consular ID, or other document from your country of origin, plus proof that you live in California.
  • You take the same written test, vision test, and driving test as any other applicant, and pay the same fees.
  • The license is renewed every five years and costs the same as a standard California license.

What 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 U.S. government-issued ID for the identity requirement — instead, you must bring a document issued by your country of origin.

For proof of identity, acceptable documents include a foreign passport, a consular ID card (such as a Mexican matricula consular), a national ID card from your country, a birth certificate with a photo ID, or a foreign driver's license. The document must show your name, date of birth, and a photo. If your document is not in English, bring an official translation or have the DMV translate it.

For proof of California residency, bring two documents that show your name and a California address. These can be a utility bill, lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, bank or credit card statement, insurance policy, or a letter from a government agency. The documents must be dated within the last 60 days. A lease agreement counts even if it is not notarized.

You will also need to provide a California address where you can receive mail. If you do not have a permanent address, you can use a friend's or family member's address, a shelter address, or a mail service address — the DMV does not verify that you own or rent the property.

The written test, vision test, and driving test

You must pass the same three tests required of all California driver's license applicants. The written test covers California traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can take it in English or one of several other languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Tagalog, and others. The DMV offers the test in 32 languages total.

The vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. You must be able to read a line of letters and numbers on a chart from a specific distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, you can wear them during the test. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or return another time.

The driving test takes about 20 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and responding to road conditions. You drive in local streets with a DMV examiner in the car. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. If you do not own a car, you can borrow one from a friend or family member — the vehicle does not have to be registered in your name, but it must be insured.

If you fail any test, you can retake it. There is no limit on the number of attempts, though you may have to pay a retest fee each time.

How to schedule your DMV appointment

You must schedule an appointment at a California DMV office before you go in person. Walk-ins are not accepted for driver's license tests. You can schedule online at the DMV website (dmv.ca.gov), by phone at 1-800-777-0133, or in person at any DMV office.

When you schedule, tell the DMV that you are explore for an AB 60 license. Some offices have specific appointment slots for AB 60 applicants, and scheduling in advance ensures you get a time that works for you. Wait times for appointments vary by location — some offices have openings within a few days, while others may have a wait of several weeks.

Bring all your documents to the appointment. The DMV will review them, take your photo, collect your fee, and schedule your written and driving tests if you have not taken them yet. You may be able to take the written test the same day.

Fees and renewal timeline

An AB 60 license costs the same as a standard California driver's license. The current fee for a five-year license is $39 if you are under 62 years old. If you are 62 or older, the fee is $13. These fees can change, so check the DMV website for the current amount.

Your AB 60 license is valid for five years from the date it is issued. You renew it by going back to the DMV before the expiration date. You can renew in person, by mail, or online if you meet certain conditions — for example, if your address has not changed and your vision is still good. The renewal process is the same for AB 60 licenses as for standard licenses.

If your license expires, you can still renew it for a period of time after expiration, though you may face a late fee. Do not drive with an expired license — it is illegal and can result in a traffic citation.

What an AB 60 license can and cannot be used for

An AB 60 license is a valid driver's license for California and can be used to drive anywhere in the United States. It satisfies the requirement to carry a license while driving, and it is recognized by law enforcement during traffic stops. Insurance companies will accept it as proof of a valid license when you buy car insurance.

An AB 60 license cannot be used for federal identification purposes. You cannot use it to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal building, explore for federal benefits, or prove your identity to a federal agency. If you need to travel by air within the United States, you will need a passport or another form of federal ID.

Some private businesses and organizations may not accept an AB 60 license as proof of identity for non-driving purposes — for example, opening a bank account or renting an apartment. Each business sets its own policy. Some will accept it, and some will not. It is worth asking before you assume it will work.

Common mistakes and what to avoid

The most common mistake is bringing the wrong documents. The DMV will not accept a U.S. Social Security card, a U.S. birth certificate without a photo ID, or an expired foreign passport as your only proof of identity. Make sure your identity document has your photo, name, and date of birth, and that it was issued by your country of origin or a consular office.

Another mistake is not bringing enough proof of residency. Two documents are required, and they must both show your name and California address. A single utility bill or lease is not enough. If you live with someone else and the documents are in their name, ask them to write a letter on the back of one document confirming that you live there, or bring a second document in your name.

Do not assume you can use an AB 60 license for federal purposes. Many people get the license and then find out they cannot use it to fly or enter a federal building. If you need federal ID, you will need a passport or a passport card from your country of origin, or you will need to explore other options with an immigration attorney.

Finally, do not delay renewing your license. An expired license is not valid for driving, and you cannot renew it online or by mail if it has been expired for too long. Renew before the expiration date to avoid having to retake the tests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration case or status?

No. An AB 60 license does not change your immigration status or create a record that immigration authorities can use against you. The DMV does not share driver's license information with federal immigration agencies. If you have concerns about your specific situation, talk to an immigration attorney before you explore.

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

No. Federal law requires a Real ID-compliant license or another form of federal ID to board a domestic flight. An AB 60 license is not Real ID-compliant. You would need a passport or passport card from your country of origin to fly.

What if I do not have a foreign passport or consular ID?

You can use other documents issued by your country of origin, such as a national ID card, a birth certificate paired with a photo ID, or a foreign driver's license. The DMV accepts a wide range of documents — call your local office or check the DMV website to see what they will accept in your situation.

How long does it take to get an AB 60 license after my appointment?

If you pass your tests at your appointment, the DMV will issue your license the same day or within a few days. You can choose to have it mailed to you or pick it up in person at the DMV office. Mailed licenses typically arrive within one to two weeks.

Can I renew my AB 60 license online?

You may be able to renew online if your address has not changed, your vision is still good, and you meet other conditions. Check the DMV website or call to see if you are may be able to access. If not, you can renew by mail or in person at a DMV office.