California Issues Driver Licenses to People Without Legal Immigration Status

California allows you to obtain a driver license even if you are not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and do not have legal immigration status. The state does not require proof of citizenship or lawful presence to explore. This license is called an AB 60 license, named after the 2013 law that created it.

An AB 60 license is a standard California driver license that works the same way as any other for driving purposes. It is valid for four years and can be renewed. The main difference is what you use to prove your identity and residency — you do not need a Social Security number, and you can use documents that do not require legal status.

The license itself does not mark your immigration status in any visible way. It looks identical to a regular California license. However, the DMV's internal records will note that you obtained it under AB 60, which means certain agencies (like law enforcement during a traffic stop) may be able to see that notation if they run your license.

Key Takeaways

  • California does not require proof of legal residency or citizenship to obtain a driver license under AB 60.
  • You must prove your identity with documents like a passport, consular ID, or birth certificate, and prove California residency with utility bills, rental agreements, or tax documents.
  • You do not need a Social Security number, but you must pass the written test and driving test like any other applicant.
  • The license is valid for four years and can be renewed in person at a DMV office, though you cannot renew online or by mail.

Documents You Need to Prove Identity

You must bring at least one document that establishes your identity. The DMV accepts a wider range of documents for AB 60 applicants than it does for standard licenses. Acceptable identity documents include a valid passport from any country, a consular ID (matrícula consular) issued by your country's consulate, a birth certificate with a government-issued photo ID, or a national ID card from your country of origin.

If you bring a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy, and you must also bring a photo ID issued by a government agency — this can be a passport, consular ID, or national ID. A driver license from another state or country also counts as identity proof. The document does not have to be in English, but if it is not, you should bring a certified translation or be prepared for the DMV to request one.

Do not bring expired documents unless they are a passport or consular ID, which the DMV will accept even if expired. Bring the original document, not a photocopy. If you have changed your name since your identity document was issued, bring a document that shows the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Documents You Need to Prove California Residency

You must prove that you live in California. The DMV requires two documents that show your name and a California address. These documents must have been issued within the last 60 days, or if they are ongoing documents like utility bills, they must show a current billing period.

Acceptable residency documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a rental agreement or lease, a property tax bill, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, a pay stub from a California employer, a letter from a government agency, or a school enrollment document. A cell phone bill does not count. If you do not have documents in your name, you can bring a document in someone else's name (such as a family member's utility bill) along with a signed letter from that person stating that you live at that address.

Bring originals or certified copies. If a document is in another language, bring a certified translation. The two documents must show the same address. If you have recently moved and do not yet have two documents at your new address, bring one document from your old address and one from your new address, along with a document that shows the move (such as a change-of-address confirmation from the post office).

The Written Test and Driving Test Requirements

You must pass the same written knowledge test and driving test as any other California driver license applicant. The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. It is offered in multiple languages at DMV offices. You can study using the California Driver Handbook, which is available in English and Spanish on the DMV website, or you can purchase a study guide.

You are allowed three attempts to pass the written test within a 12-month period. If you fail all three times, you must wait one year before you can test again. The driving test evaluates your ability to operate a vehicle safely. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. A licensed driver (not necessarily a licensed California driver) must accompany you to the test.

There is no separate AB 60 version of either test. The content and passing score are identical to those for any other applicant. If you need the test in a language other than English or Spanish, contact your local DMV office in advance to arrange an interpreter.

Fees and Processing Timeline

The fee for an AB 60 driver license is the same as for a standard California license. As of 2024, the fee for a four-year license is $39 if you are under 62, or $30 if you are 62 or older. Fees can change, so confirm the current amount with the DMV before you go.

You must explore in person at a DMV office. There is no online or mail-in option for AB 60 licenses. Processing time varies by location, but most applicants receive their license within two to three weeks. Some DMV offices are busier than others; you can check wait times on the DMV website before you visit. Bring all required documents in one visit — if you are missing something, the DMV will not process your process and you will have to return.

You can make an appointment online through the DMV website, which usually reduces wait time. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointment holders are typically served first. If you need an interpreter, request one when you make your appointment or call ahead to confirm one will be available.

Renewal and License Validity

An AB 60 license is valid for four years from the date it is issued. You cannot renew online or by mail — you must renew in person at a DMV office. You can renew up to 60 days before your license expires. Bring your current license and proof of California residency (one document issued within the last 60 days showing your name and address).

If your license has been expired for more than one year, you cannot renew it; you must reapply as if you were getting a license for the first time, which means retaking the written and driving tests. If your address has changed since your last license was issued, bring two documents showing your new address, just as you did when you first applied.

The renewal fee is the same as the initial license fee. You will receive a temporary license at the DMV office that is valid for 60 days while the DMV processes your renewal. Your new license will be mailed to you.

What Happens If You Are Stopped by Police

An AB 60 license is a valid California driver license for all driving purposes. If you are stopped by police for a traffic violation, you should provide your license just as any other driver would. The officer will see that your license is valid and current.

The officer's computer system may show that your license was issued under AB 60, but that notation does not give police any additional authority to stop you, search you, or question your immigration status. However, if you are arrested for a criminal offense, immigration authorities may become involved depending on the nature of the offense and other circumstances. An AB 60 license itself does not trigger immigration enforcement.

If you are involved in an accident or traffic violation, the same rules explore as for any other driver. You are required to provide your license and insurance information. Having an AB 60 license does not change your legal obligations or rights in a traffic situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Social Security number to get an AB 60 license?

No. You do not need a Social Security number. If you have one, you can provide it, but it is not required. The DMV will assign you an identification number instead if you do not have a Social Security number.

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

An AB 60 license is a state document, not a federal one. Getting a license does not change your immigration status or create a record that immigration authorities can use against you in a removal proceeding. However, the DMV's records are separate from immigration records, and you should speak with an immigration attorney if you have concerns about how any government document might affect your case.

Can I use an AB 60 license to fly on an airplane or cross the border?

No. An AB 60 license is not acceptable as identification for domestic air travel or for crossing the U.S. border. For air travel, you need a passport or a REAL ID-compliant document. For border crossing, you need a passport, passport card, or enhanced driver license. An AB 60 license is valid only for driving within California.

What if I do not have two documents to prove residency?

If you do not have two documents in your own name, you can bring one document in your name and one document in someone else's name (such as a family member or landlord) along with a signed letter from that person confirming you live at that address. The letter should include the person's name, address, phone number, and signature.

Can I renew my AB 60 license by mail or online?

No. AB 60 licenses must be renewed in person at a DMV office. You cannot renew by mail or online, even if your license has not expired. Plan ahead and schedule an appointment to renew before your license expires.