California Issues Driver Licenses to People Without Proof of Immigration Status

California allows you to obtain a driver license even if you cannot show proof of legal immigration status in the United States. This is separate from a standard California driver license — it is called an AB 60 license, named after the 2013 law that created it. The license looks identical to a regular California license, works the same way for driving, and carries no marking that distinguishes it from any other license.

You do not need a Social Security number, an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), or any federal immigration document. You do need to prove your identity and California residency, and you must pass the written and driving tests like any other applicant. The license is valid for five years from the date of issue.

Key Takeaways

  • California's AB 60 license is available to anyone who can prove identity and residency, regardless of immigration status.
  • You must bring an original or certified copy of a birth certificate, passport, or other identity document recognized by the DMV, plus two documents showing a California address.
  • You will take the same written and driving tests as any other applicant and pay the same fees as a standard five-year license.
  • The license cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic airplane or entering a federal building, but it is valid for driving and state identification.

Documents You Need to Bring to the DMV

The DMV requires two categories of documents: proof of identity and proof of California residency. You cannot use the same document for both.

For proof of identity, bring an original or certified copy of one of these:

  • A birth certificate issued by a U.S. state, U.S. territory, or tribal nation
  • A valid passport from any country
  • A consular identification card (matrícula consular) issued by your country's consulate
  • A valid national identification card from your country of origin
  • A valid visa or travel document issued by the U.S. government
  • A valid foreign driver license
  • A valid tribal identification card

For proof of California residency, bring two documents showing your name and a California address. These can include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, vehicle registration, insurance policy, bank statement, or pay stub. Documents must be dated within the last 12 months. If your name does not appear on a document, you can bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change, plus the residency document in your former name.

The process and Testing Process

You will fill out the same process form (DL 44) that all first-time applicants use. At the DMV office, you will provide your documents, have your photograph taken, and pay the license fee. As of 2024, a five-year AB 60 license costs the same as a standard five-year license — the DMV does not charge a different rate.

You must pass the written knowledge test, which covers California traffic laws and safe driving practices. The test is offered in multiple languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Tagalog, and others. You can take the test on a computer at the DMV office. You must also pass a behind-the-wheel driving test with a DMV examiner, during which you will demonstrate basic driving skills and knowledge of traffic laws.

If you fail either test, you can retake it. There is no limit to how many times you can test, but you must wait at least one day between attempts for the written test and typically schedule a new appointment for the driving test.

What You Cannot Use an AB 60 License For

An AB 60 license is not acceptable for federal purposes. You cannot use it to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal building, or explore for federal benefits. It is also not accepted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for airport security screening.

However, the license is valid for all state-level purposes: driving a car, renting a vehicle, opening a bank account, obtaining a California state ID card, and serving as proof of identity in most everyday situations. Some private businesses may accept it as identification, though they are not required to do so.

Differences Between AB 60 Licenses and Standard California Licenses

The physical appearance of an AB 60 license is identical to a standard California driver license. There is no marking, code, or visible indicator that distinguishes it. Both are valid for five years and must be renewed following the same process.

The key difference is what you can use it for. A standard license is acceptable for federal purposes like domestic air travel and federal building access. An AB 60 license is not. Both licenses allow you to drive legally in California and are recognized by law enforcement during traffic stops. Both require you to pass the same written and driving tests.

Renewing Your AB 60 License

When your AB 60 license expires, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person at a DMV office. If you renew by mail or online, you do not need to retake the written or driving tests — you only need to provide updated information if your address or name has changed.

To renew by mail, the DMV will send you a renewal notice before your license expires. You complete the form, include payment, and mail it back. To renew online, visit the California DMV website and follow the renewal process. You will need your current license number and date of birth. If you renew in person, bring your current license and any documents showing a change of address if applicable.

The renewal fee is the same as the original license fee. If your license has been expired for more than five years, you may need to retake the tests and explore as a new applicant rather than renewing.

Common Mistakes and What to Avoid

The most common mistake is bringing documents that do not meet the DMV's requirements. A consular ID card must be valid (not expired), and residency documents must show your current address and be dated within the last 12 months. A utility bill from two years ago will not work. If your name on your identity document does not match your residency documents, bring a legal name-change document.

Another frequent error is not bringing enough documents. You need one identity document and two separate residency documents. Bringing only one of each will result in a rejected process. If you do not have two residency documents in your name, ask the DMV about alternatives — in some cases, a notarized letter from a landlord or property manager can substitute for a lease.

Do not assume the AB 60 license will work for federal purposes. It will not. If you need to board a plane or enter a federal building, you will need a different form of identification, such as a passport from your country of origin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an AB 60 license if I have been deported or have an immigration case pending?

Yes. The AB 60 law does not ask about your immigration history or status. You only need to prove identity and California residency. However, if you are in removal proceedings, consult with an immigration attorney before obtaining any state ID, as it may be used as evidence in your case.

Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration case?

A state driver license itself does not affect immigration proceedings. However, the DMV shares information with federal agencies in some circumstances. Speak with an immigration attorney about your specific situation before explore if you have an active immigration case.

Can I use my AB 60 license to rent a car?

Many car rental companies will accept an AB 60 license, but policies vary. Call the rental company in advance to confirm they accept California AB 60 licenses. Some companies may require additional documentation or may decline to rent to you.

What if I do not have a birth certificate or passport?

You can bring a consular identification card, national ID card, or valid foreign driver license instead. If you do not have any of these documents, contact your country's consulate in California — they can issue a consular ID card or help you obtain other identity documents.

How long does it take to get an AB 60 license after I explore?

If you pass both the written and driving tests on your first attempt, the DMV will issue your license the same day or mail it to you within one to two weeks. If you need to retake a test, the timeline extends depending on when you schedule your next appointment.