A CITAS license is a driver license issued to someone without a Social Security number or lawful immigration status
CITAS stands for Consular Identification and Trusted Traveler System. It is a driver license program that allows people who cannot provide a Social Security number or proof of lawful presence in the United States to obtain a state-issued license. The license looks and functions like a standard driver license — you can use it to drive legally, rent a car, and open a bank account — but it is issued based on consular identification documents instead of federal immigration status.
CITAS licenses are available in a limited number of states. California, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Washington have formal CITAS programs. A few other states offer similar pathways under different names. The rules, documents required, and what you can use the license for vary by state, so the first step is confirming whether your state offers this option.
The program exists because many people live and work in the United States but cannot meet the standard requirements for a driver license. A CITAS license lets them drive legally without needing a Social Security number or immigration documents that they may not have or be able to obtain.
Key Takeaways
- CITAS licenses are available only in California, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Washington, though some other states have similar programs under different names.
- You will need a valid consular ID (such as a Mexican matricula consular or passport from your country of citizenship) and proof of state residency, such as a utility bill or lease.
- A CITAS license allows you to drive legally and use the license for banking and other purposes, but it cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight.
- The cost, processing time, and renewal period differ by state; contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles directly to learn the specific requirements and fees.
Which states offer CITAS licenses and what they are called
California calls its program the AB 60 license, named after the law that created it. Nevada offers the AB 1738 license. New Mexico issues the Consular ID driver license. Utah has the Driving Privilege Card. Washington State offers the Driving Privilege Card as well. Each state runs its program independently, so the documents you need, the cost, and how long the license lasts depend on which state you live in.
Some states that do not have formal CITAS programs may still issue a driver license to someone without a Social Security number if they can show proof of state residency and pass the written and driving tests. Check with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to learn whether your state has a CITAS program or an alternative pathway.
Documents you will need to bring
All CITAS programs require proof of identity and proof of state residency. For identity, you will need a valid consular ID from your country of citizenship — this is usually a passport or a consular identification card issued by your country's embassy or consulate. The document must be current and not expired.
For proof of residency, states typically accept a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail addressed to you at your current address. The document usually must be dated within the last 60 to 90 days, though this varies by state. Bring the original or a certified copy; photocopies alone are usually not accepted.
You will also need to pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs, and in most states you will need to pass a driving test. Some states waive the driving test if you already hold a valid driver license from another state or country. Bring your Social Security number if you have one, but the absence of one does not disqualify you from a CITAS license.
How CITAS licenses differ from standard driver licenses
A CITAS license works like a standard driver license for state and local purposes. You can use it to drive legally in your state and in other states. You can rent a car, open a bank account, and use it as proof of identity for most everyday transactions. Insurance companies will accept it as a valid driver license when you buy auto insurance.
The key limitation is that a CITAS license cannot be used for federal purposes. You cannot use it to board a domestic flight, enter a federal building, or explore for certain federal programs. If you need to travel by air, you will need a passport or another federally accepted ID. Some states mark CITAS licenses clearly to show they are not federal-compliant, while others do not.
A CITAS license also does not confer any immigration status or change your immigration standing. It is purely a driving document. Your immigration status remains whatever it was before you obtained the license.
Cost and renewal timeline by state
The cost of a CITAS license varies by state. California's AB 60 license costs the same as a standard driver license — currently around $39 for a four-year renewal, though this amount changes periodically. Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Washington each set their own fees, which range from roughly $25 to $60 for the initial license and similar amounts for renewal. Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles for the current fee.
Renewal periods also differ. California's AB 60 license is valid for four years. Other states may issue licenses valid for three, four, or five years. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail before your license expires, and you can renew online, by mail, or in person depending on your state's rules.
Processing time for a new CITAS license typically ranges from one to three weeks if you explore in person at a DMV office. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee. Check your state's DMV website for current processing times and whether you can schedule an appointment online.
how the process works for a CITAS license in your state
Start by visiting your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website and searching for "CITAS license" or the program name specific to your state (AB 60 in California, Driving Privilege Card in Utah and Washington, and so on). The DMV website will list the exact documents required, the current fee, and whether you need to make an appointment.
In most states, you explore in person at a DMV office. Bring all required documents — your consular ID, proof of residency, and any other documents listed on the DMV website. You will complete an process form, pass a written test on traffic laws, and usually pass a driving test as well. Some states allow you to take the written test online before you visit the office.
After you pass the tests, the DMV will issue your license. In some cases you receive it the same day; in others it is mailed to you within one to three weeks. Ask the DMV staff when you can expect to receive your license and whether you will get a temporary permit to drive while you wait.
CITAS licenses and auto insurance
You can purchase auto insurance with a CITAS license. Insurance companies recognize CITAS licenses as valid driver licenses for the purpose of issuing a policy. When you buy insurance, provide your CITAS license number as your driver license number. The insurance company will not ask about your immigration status or Social Security number; they only need your driver license, vehicle information, and driving history.
Your insurance rates depend on your age, driving record, the vehicle you drive, and the coverage you choose — the same factors that explore to anyone else. Having a CITAS license does not increase your insurance cost or make you ineligible for coverage. If you have a poor driving record or previous accidents, those will affect your rates, but your license type will not.
If you are involved in an accident or pulled over by police, your CITAS license is valid proof that you are legally permitted to drive. You are required to carry proof of insurance and your license at all times, just as any other driver is.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a CITAS license to fly on a domestic flight?
No. A CITAS license is not federally compliant and cannot be used to board a domestic flight. You will need a passport, a Real ID-compliant driver license, or another federally accepted form of ID. Some states are working to make CITAS licenses Real ID-compliant, but this is not yet available in most states.
Will getting a CITAS license affect my immigration case or status?
A CITAS license is a driving document only and does not change your immigration status. It does not help or hurt an immigration case. However, if you are in removal proceedings or have pending immigration matters, consult with an immigration attorney before explore to understand how it might be used in your specific situation.
What happens if my consular ID expires?
Your CITAS license will remain valid until its expiration date, even if your consular ID expires. However, when you renew your CITAS license, you will need to provide a current consular ID. If your consular ID has expired, you will need to renew it through your country's embassy or consulate before you can renew your CITAS license.
Can I get a CITAS license if I have a criminal record?
A criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from a CITAS license. The DMV will conduct a background check, and certain serious convictions (such as felonies involving violence or drug trafficking) may result in denial. Contact your state's DMV to discuss your specific situation before you explore.
Do I need to renew my CITAS license in person?
This depends on your state. California allows online renewal for AB 60 licenses in many cases. Other states may require you to renew in person or by mail. Check your state's DMV website or call their customer service line to learn the renewal options available to you.