California allows you to get a driver's license without proof of citizenship or legal immigration status
California's AB 60 law, which took effect in 2015, permits anyone to obtain a driver's license regardless of immigration status. You do not need to prove you are a U.S. citizen or have legal residency to hold a California license. The state issues these licenses with the same validity period and driving privileges as any other license, though the card itself is marked differently so law enforcement can see it was issued under AB 60.
The license is valid for driving within California and is recognized by TSA at airport security checkpoints in California. However, it cannot be used as federal identification for purposes like boarding flights outside California, entering federal buildings, or crossing international borders. For those purposes, you would need a passport or other federal-compliant document.
Key Takeaways
- California issues driver's licenses to people without legal immigration status under AB 60, with no citizenship or residency proof required.
- You must provide a valid passport or consular identification document from your country of origin as your primary identity document.
- Proof of California residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement) is required and must show your name and current address.
- The AB 60 license is valid for driving in California but cannot be used for federal identification purposes like domestic air travel outside the state.
- Processing typically takes two to three weeks after you submit your process in person at a DMV office.
Documents you need to bring to the DMV
Your primary identity document must be a valid passport or consular identification card (matrícula consular) issued by your country's embassy or consulate. The document must not be expired. If your passport is from your country of origin and is still valid, that is your strongest option. A matrícula consular is issued by many Latin American countries' consulates and is specifically accepted under AB 60.
You also need proof that you live in California. This can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government document (such as a tax return or court document) that shows your name and your current California address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a document in your name, you can use one in a family member's name along with a signed statement from that person confirming you live there, plus a document showing your relationship (such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate).
Bring your Social Security number if you have one. If you do not, you can request an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from the IRS, or you can leave this field blank on your process—California will assign you a state identification number instead. You will also need to provide your date of birth and answer questions about your driving history.
The step-by-step process at the DMV
First, schedule an appointment online at dmv.ca.gov or call 1-800-777-0133. Walk-ins are accepted but appointments move faster. When you arrive, tell the DMV staff you are explore under AB 60. Bring all your documents: your passport or matrícula consular, your proof of residency, and any other identification you have.
The DMV will take your photograph and fingerprints. You will complete an process form (DL 44) and sign it. You will take a written test on traffic laws and signs—you can request this test in Spanish or many other languages. You will also take a vision test. If you have a valid driver's license from another country, you may be waived from the written test, but you must still pass the vision test and take a behind-the-wheel driving test.
After you pass all tests, the DMV will issue you a temporary license on paper that day. Your permanent plastic card will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. The temporary license is valid for driving when ready.
What makes an AB 60 license different from a standard California license
The AB 60 license looks similar to a standard California driver's license but has "AB 60" printed on the front. Law enforcement and other officials can see from the card itself that it was issued under this law. The driving privileges are identical—you can drive any vehicle class you are licensed for, and the license is valid for five years (or until age 69 for applicants over 64).
The key limitation is federal use. You cannot use an AB 60 license to board a domestic flight, enter a federal courthouse, or cross an international border. For those purposes, you need a passport, passport card, or other REAL ID-compliant document. Within California, however, the license is treated the same as any other license for traffic stops, insurance purposes, and vehicle registration.
Renewal and replacement of your AB 60 license
Your AB 60 license expires five years from the date it is issued. You can renew it online at dmv.ca.gov if your license is not suspended and you have not had any major changes to your information. If you need to renew in person, bring the same documents you brought for your original process: your valid passport or matrícula consular and proof of California residency.
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it at any DMV office. Bring your passport or matrícula consular and proof of residency. Replacement licenses cost the same as renewals. If your address changes, you must update it with the DMV within 10 days—you can do this online, by mail, or in person.
Common mistakes to avoid
Do not bring an expired passport or matrícula consular. The DMV will not accept it. If your document is expired, you must renew it through your country's consulate before you can explore for a license. This can take several weeks, so plan ahead.
Do not assume a utility bill or lease in someone else's name is enough. You must also bring a signed statement from that person and proof of your relationship. Without all three, the DMV will reject your residency proof.
Do not expect to use your AB 60 license for federal purposes. If you need to fly out of state or enter a federal building, bring your passport instead. Some people discover this limitation after getting their license and then have to obtain a passport anyway.
Do not miss your behind-the-wheel test appointment. If you do not show up, you will have to reschedule and pay the test fee again. The DMV does not automatically reschedule missed appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an AB 60 license to register a vehicle or get car insurance?
Yes. California allows vehicle registration and insurance with an AB 60 license. Insurance companies are required to write policies for drivers with AB 60 licenses. You will need your license number, proof of residency, and proof of vehicle ownership or a lease agreement to register your vehicle at the DMV.
What if my passport is from a country that is not recognized by California?
California accepts passports from all countries. If your country does not issue passports, a matrícula consular or other national identity document issued by your country's consulate is acceptable. Contact your country's nearest consulate to find out what documents they issue.
Can I get an AB 60 license if I have been deported or have an immigration hold?
California law does not prohibit this, but the DMV will run your information through law enforcement databases. If there is an active immigration hold or warrant, the DMV may report you to immigration authorities. Consult with an immigration attorney before explore if you have a previous deportation or active case.
How much does an AB 60 license cost?
The fee is the same as a standard California driver's license: $39 for a five-year license. Payment is due when you submit your process. The DMV accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card.
Can I get an AB 60 license if I live outside California but work there?
No. You must be a California resident to get a California license. Residency means you live in California, not that you work there. If you live in another state, you must get a license from that state.