California allows you to get a driver license without proving you are a U.S. citizen or legal resident

California's AB 60 law, which took effect in 2015, lets you obtain a driver license if you live in California, regardless of your immigration status. You do not need to show a Social Security number, proof of legal residency, or citizenship documents. Instead, you prove your identity and California residency using documents that do not require immigration status.

This license is a standard California driver license — it works the same way as any other for driving purposes. It does not mark your immigration status on the card itself. However, it cannot be used as federal identification for boarding a domestic airplane or entering a federal building, because it is not Real ID compliant. If you need to fly within the United States, you will need a passport or other federal ID.

Key Takeaways

  • You can get a California driver license under AB 60 without a Social Security number, legal residency proof, or citizenship documents.
  • You must prove your identity with documents like a passport, consular ID, or birth certificate, and prove California residency with utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements.
  • The AB 60 license is valid for driving but cannot be used for federal purposes like domestic air travel.
  • The written test and road test are the same as for any other applicant, and you pay the standard license fee.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires two categories of documents: proof of identity and proof of California residency. You do not need to bring immigration documents.

For proof of identity, you can use a valid passport (from any country), a consular identification card (matrícula consular), a birth certificate with a government-issued ID, or a foreign driver license with a government-issued ID. The document must show your name, date of birth, and a photo or physical description.

For proof of California residency, bring two documents that show your name and a California address. These can include a utility bill, lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, bank or credit card statement, or a government-issued document like a tax return or court order. The documents must be dated within the last 12 months.

The written test and road test are the same for everyone

You take the same written knowledge test and behind-the-wheel driving test as any other applicant. The written test covers California traffic laws and safe driving practices. You can request the test in Spanish or another language if English is not your first language — the DMV offers tests in multiple languages.

You must pass both tests to receive your license. If you fail either test, you can retake it after waiting the required time between attempts. The road test must be taken in a vehicle that is registered, insured, and passes a safety inspection.

How to schedule your appointment at the DMV

You can schedule a DMV appointment online through the California DMV website or by calling your local DMV office. Walk-ins are accepted at some locations, but appointments are faster and reduce wait times. When you schedule, you will need to provide your name, date of birth, and the type of service you want (first-time driver license).

Bring all your documents — proof of identity, proof of residency, and a completed DL 44 form (the process for a driver license). You will also need to pay the license fee, which varies depending on the type of license and how long it is valid. Bring a check, money order, or debit card; not all DMV locations accept cash.

What happens after you pass the tests

Once you pass both the written and road tests, the DMV will issue your driver license. Your license will be mailed to the address you provided, or you can pick it up at the DMV office where you took your test. The license is valid for five years from the date it is issued.

Your AB 60 license can be renewed by mail or online before it expires. You do not need to retake the tests to renew — you only need to update your information if anything has changed and pay the renewal fee.

Using your AB 60 license for driving and identification

Your California driver license is valid for all driving purposes within the state and across the country. You can use it to rent a car, get car insurance, or prove you are a licensed driver to law enforcement. It is a standard license with no markings that indicate how you obtained it.

However, this license is not Real ID compliant, which means you cannot use it for federal 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 valid passport or another form of federal identification. You can still use your AB 60 license for all other identification purposes, such as opening a bank account or getting a job.

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. The DMV will assign you an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or another identifier if you do not have a Social Security number. You only need to prove your identity and California residency.

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

Not for domestic flights. Your AB 60 license is not Real ID compliant, so you cannot use it to board a plane within the United States. You will need a valid passport or another federal ID. You can use your license for driving and most other purposes.

What if my passport or consular ID is expired?

An expired passport or consular ID can still be used to prove your identity for a driver license, as long as it shows your name, date of birth, and photo. The DMV accepts expired documents for identity purposes.

How long does it take to get my license after I pass the tests?

Your license is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days, or you can pick it up at the DMV office the same day you pass your tests. If you choose to pick it up, you will receive a temporary paper license to use while you wait for the plastic card to arrive by mail.

Can I renew my AB 60 license by mail?

Yes. You can renew your license by mail or online before it expires. You do not need to retake the written or road tests. You only need to update your information if anything has changed and pay the renewal fee.