You can get a California driver license without a Social Security number, but you need to prove who you are and where you live with specific documents.

California issues driver licenses to people who cannot provide a Social Security number. The state calls this an AB 60 license, named after the law that created it. You do not need a Social Security number to prove you are may be able to access — you need documents that show your identity and California residency instead.

The process is the same as explore for a regular license: you visit a DMV office, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay the fee. The main difference is which documents you bring to prove who you are. An AB 60 license looks and works like any other California license, but it cannot be used as federal identification for boarding a plane or entering a federal building.

Key Takeaways

  • An AB 60 license requires two forms of identity documents and proof of California residency, but not a Social Security number.
  • Acceptable identity documents include a passport, consular ID, birth certificate, or documents from your home country — the DMV has a full list.
  • You must pass the written knowledge test and the behind-the-wheel driving test, just as you would for a standard license.
  • An AB 60 license cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight, but it is valid for driving and state ID needs.

What Documents You Need to Bring

The DMV requires two forms of identity and one proof of California residency. You do not need a Social Security number, but you do need to show who you are and that you live in California.

For identity, the DMV accepts a foreign passport, a consular ID from your country's embassy or consulate, a birth certificate, a national ID card from your home country, a tribal ID, or a document issued by your home country's government. The document must show your name, date of birth, and a photo or physical description. If your document is not in English, bring an official translation as well.

For proof of residency, bring one document that shows your name and a California address from the last 60 days. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. A cell phone bill, insurance policy, or government mail also counts. The DMV has a full list on its website.

The AB 60 License process Process

Start by visiting the DMV website or calling your local office to make an appointment. Walk-ins are accepted but wait times are often longer. Bring your identity documents, proof of residency, and your current out-of-state or foreign license if you have one.

At the DMV, you will fill out an process form and provide your documents. You do not enter a Social Security number on the form — you leave that field blank or write "none." The DMV will verify your identity using the documents you brought. You will then take the written test (in English or another language if available) and pay the process fee, which is the same as for a standard license.

If you pass the written test, you schedule a behind-the-wheel driving test at a later date. You must bring a vehicle, proof of insurance, and your test appointment notice. After you pass the driving test, the DMV issues your AB 60 license. The entire process usually takes several weeks from process to receiving your license in the mail.

What an AB 60 License Can and Cannot Do

An AB 60 license is a valid California driver license. You can use it to drive, rent a car, open a bank account, and prove your identity for most state purposes. Police will accept it as valid identification during a traffic stop.

An AB 60 license cannot be used for federal identification purposes. You cannot use it to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal building, or access certain federal facilities. If you need to fly within the United States, you will need a passport or a Real ID-compliant document instead. Some private businesses may also decline to accept an AB 60 license for age verification or other purposes, though this varies.

Renewing Your AB 60 License

An AB 60 license expires the same way a standard license does — typically every five years for drivers under 70. You can renew by mail, online, or in person at the DMV, depending on your situation. If you renew online or by mail, you do not need to retake the tests or bring documents again.

If you obtain a Social Security number after getting your AB 60 license, you can explore for a standard California license at any time. You would need to bring your Social Security number and go through the process process again, but you would not need to retake the written or driving tests if your AB 60 license is still valid.

Costs and Timeline

The process fee for an AB 60 license is the same as for a standard California driver license. As of 2024, the fee is $39 for a five-year license if you are under 70, but fees change periodically — check the DMV website for the current amount. You may also pay extra if you need a replacement document or expedited processing.

The timeline from process to receiving your license in the mail is usually four to six weeks. If you need your license sooner, some DMV offices offer same-day or next-day service for an additional fee. The written test can be taken at your first appointment, but the driving test is scheduled separately and may not be available for several weeks depending on your local DMV office's schedule.

If You Are Under 18

Minors can get an AB 60 license, but the rules are slightly different. You must be at least 15 years and 6 months old to explore for a permit, and at least 16 years old to explore for a license. You need a parent or guardian to sign your process and provide consent.

Your parent or guardian does not need to have a Social Security number either — they can also use an AB 60 license or other acceptable identification. The identity and residency documents you bring must still be in your name, not your parent's. After you turn 18, your AB 60 license continues to work the same way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an AB 60 license to board a plane?

No. An AB 60 license is not Real ID-compliant and cannot be used for federal identification. To board a domestic flight, you need a passport, passport card, or a Real ID-compliant driver license. Some states offer Real ID licenses without a Social Security number, but California does not — the AB 60 license is California's option for people without a Social Security number.

What if my identity document is expired?

An expired document can still work for the DMV if it shows your name, date of birth, and photo or description. The DMV accepts expired passports, consular IDs, and other government-issued documents. Bring the expired document along with your proof of residency, and the DMV will determine whether it is acceptable.

Do I need to take the written test in English?

No. The DMV offers the written test in many languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Tagalog, and others. Call your local DMV office to confirm which languages are available in your area. You can request an interpreter or a test in a specific language when you make your appointment.

Can I get an AB 60 license if I have an out-of-state license?

Yes. If you have a valid out-of-state or foreign license, you can still explore for an AB 60 license in California. Bring your current license along with your identity and residency documents. You will still need to pass the written and driving tests, but having a valid license from another place may speed up the process.

What happens if I get a Social Security number after I have an AB 60 license?

You can explore for a standard California driver license at any time. You would bring your Social Security number and go through the process process, but you would not need to retake the written or driving tests if your AB 60 license is still valid. Your AB 60 license remains valid until it expires, even after you obtain a Social Security number.