How Non-US Citizens Can Get a California Driver License

What Non-US Citizens Need to Know About California Driver Licenses

California issues driver licenses to non-US citizens without requiring proof of legal immigration status. You do not need to be a citizen or permanent resident to get a California license. The state uses a different document category called an AB 60 license (also called an "AB 60 driver license") for people who cannot prove lawful presence in the United States.

The main difference between a standard California license and an AB 60 license is what it can be used for. An AB 60 license lets you drive legally in California, but it cannot be used as federal identification for things like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building. A standard license can be used for both driving and federal ID purposes. Both types cost the same and last the same amount of time.

Key Takeaways

California issues AB 60 licenses to non-US citizens and people who cannot prove lawful presence, and you do not need legal immigration status to get one.
An AB 60 license allows you to drive legally in California but cannot be used for federal identification like boarding domestic flights.
You will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a Social Security Number, proof of California residency, and proof of identity to explore.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) does not share your information with immigration authorities, and getting a license does not affect your immigration case.

Documents You Need to Bring to the DMV

The DMV requires specific documents from non-US citizens explore for an AB 60 license. You will need proof of identity, proof of California residency, and a tax identification number. The documents do not have to be from the United States.

For proof of identity, you can bring a valid passport, a national ID card from your country, a consular ID (issued by your country's consulate in the US), a birth certificate with a photo ID, or a foreign driver license. The document must be current or expired no more than five years ago.

For proof of California residency, bring two documents that show your name and a California address. These can include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail. The documents must be dated within the last 60 days. A single document showing both your name and address counts as one of the two required documents.

For your tax identification number, you can use a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you do not have either, you can explore for an ITIN through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) before you go to the DMV. The IRS accepts ITIN applications by mail or in person at an IRS office.

The Difference Between AB 60 and Standard California Licenses

Both AB 60 and standard California licenses allow you to drive legally and carry the same renewal fees and expiration dates. The key difference is federal acceptance. A standard license can be used to board domestic flights, enter federal buildings, and access other federal facilities. An AB 60 license cannot be used for these purposes.

If you have lawful presence in the United States — meaning you are a permanent resident, have a valid visa, or have another immigration status that allows you to be in the country legally — you can explore for a standard California license instead of an AB 60 license. You will need to bring proof of your lawful presence, such as a green card, valid visa, employment authorization document (EAD), or other immigration document issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

The DMV will not ask about your immigration status when you explore for an AB 60 license. You do not have to disclose whether you are in the country legally or illegally. The DMV treats all AB 60 applicants the same way regardless of their immigration circumstances.

How the DMV Protects Your Information

The California DMV does not share your personal information with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or any other immigration authority. This protection is set by California law. Getting a driver license does not create a record that immigration authorities can use against you, and it does not affect any immigration case you may have pending.

Your DMV records are separate from your immigration file. Immigration authorities cannot access your driver license information without a court order, and California law prevents the DMV from voluntarily sharing data with immigration agencies. This means you can get a license without fear that it will be used in an immigration enforcement action.

If you are concerned about privacy, you should know that the DMV's data security practices are the same for all drivers. Your information is stored in the DMV database and protected by California's public records laws. You can request a copy of your own DMV record at any time.

Steps to Get Your AB 60 License

Start by gathering your documents: proof of identity, two proofs of California residency, and your ITIN or Social Security Number. If you do not have an ITIN, explore for one through the IRS first — this can take several weeks by mail.

Go to your local DMV office with your documents. You do not need an appointment in most cases, but you can schedule one online at the California DMV website to avoid waiting. Bring the original documents or certified copies; the DMV will not accept photocopies for identity or residency proof.

At the DMV, tell the staff member you are explore for an AB 60 license. They will review your documents, take your photo, and have you sign your process. You will also take a written test on traffic laws and a driving test unless you already have a valid license from another state or country. If you pass, you will pay the license fee and receive a temporary license on the spot. Your permanent AB 60 license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks.

Renewing Your AB 60 License

An AB 60 license expires five years after you receive it, the same as a standard California license. You can renew it by mail, online, or in person at the DMV. Renewal by mail or online is faster and does not require you to retake the written or driving test.

To renew by mail, the DMV will send you a renewal notice about 60 days before your license expires. Fill it out, include the renewal fee, and mail it back. To renew online, go to the California DMV website and follow the instructions. You will need your license number and date of birth. Both methods take about two to three weeks.

If you renew in person at the DMV, you can do it the same day. Bring your current license, proof of residency if your address has changed, and the renewal fee. You will not need to bring your original identity documents again unless your license is damaged or lost.

Using Your AB 60 License for Insurance and Driving

California car insurance companies will insure you if you have an AB 60 license. You do not need a standard license or proof of legal status to buy auto insurance. Insurance companies are required by California law to insure drivers with AB 60 licenses on the same terms as drivers with standard licenses.

When you buy insurance, tell the agent you have an AB 60 license and provide your license number. The insurance company will not ask about your immigration status. Your rates will be based on your driving record, age, vehicle type, and coverage choices — the same factors used for any driver.

An AB 60 license is valid for driving throughout California and is recognized by law enforcement. If you are pulled over, show your AB 60 license just as you would show a standard license. You are required to carry your license while driving, and you must follow all traffic laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will getting an AB 60 license hurt my immigration case?

No. Getting a driver license does not affect immigration proceedings. The DMV does not share information with immigration authorities, and having a license is not used as evidence for or against you in immigration court. Many immigration attorneys recommend getting a license because it is a legal way to establish California residency.

Can I get a standard California license if I am not a US citizen?

Yes, if you have lawful presence in the United States. Lawful presence includes having a green card, valid visa, employment authorization, or other immigration status that allows you to be in the country legally. Bring your immigration document to the DMV along with your other required documents.

What if my passport or ID is expired?

The DMV will accept an expired identity document if it expired no more than five years ago. If your document is older than five years, you will need to bring a different form of identity, such as a consular ID or birth certificate with a photo ID.

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

No. You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. If you do not have either, you can explore for an ITIN through the IRS before going to the DMV. The IRS accepts applications by mail or in person.

Can I use my AB 60 license to fly on a domestic flight?

No. An AB 60 license cannot be used for federal identification purposes like boarding domestic flights. For air travel, you will need a passport or other federal ID. If you need federal ID for other reasons, you may want to explore whether you can get a standard California license instead.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.