California lets you get a driver license without proof of citizenship or a Social Security number

California's AB 60 program, which started in 2015, created a path to a driver license for people without a Social Security number or legal immigration status. You can obtain this license through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) using documents that prove your identity and California residency instead. The license looks and works the same as any other California driver license — you can use it to drive legally, and it satisfies the state's requirement to carry a license while operating a vehicle.

The process is straightforward: you gather specific identity and residency documents, visit a DMV office in person, pass the written test and road test, and pay the standard fees. There is no separate process or waiting period. You are treated like any other first-time driver, except you do not need a Social Security number or proof of legal presence.

Key Takeaways

  • You need two forms of identity documents (such as a passport, consular ID, or birth certificate) and two proofs of California residency (such as a utility bill or lease) — a Social Security number is not required.
  • You must pass the written knowledge test and the behind-the-wheel driving test, just as any other new driver does.
  • The license costs the same as a standard California driver license and is valid for five years.
  • The DMV does not verify immigration status or share your information with immigration authorities for the purpose of enforcement.

Documents you need to bring to the DMV

You must bring documents that prove who you are and that you live in California. The DMV accepts a specific list of documents for each category, and you cannot use the same document twice.

For identity proof, bring two of these: a valid passport from any country, a consular ID (matrícula consular) issued by your home country's consulate, a birth certificate with a government-issued photo ID, a national ID card from your home country, or a foreign driver license. A school ID or work ID does not count as identity proof on its own.

For proof of California residency, bring two of these: a utility bill (gas, electric, water, or internet) dated within the last 60 days, a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a homeowner's insurance policy, a vehicle registration, or a bank or credit card statement. The documents must show your name and a California address. A PO box does not count as a residence address.

What happens at your DMV appointment

Schedule an appointment online through the DMV website or call your local DMV office. Walk-ins are allowed but appointments move faster. Bring all your documents, your completed DL 44 form (the process for a driver license), and payment for the license fee.

At the DMV, a staff member will review your documents and take your photograph. You will then take the written knowledge test on a computer or paper, covering California traffic laws and safe driving practices. If you pass, you will schedule a behind-the-wheel driving test at a later date. The road test happens at a DMV office with a DMV examiner and takes about 20 minutes. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition.

Once you pass both tests, you receive your driver license. The entire process from first visit to license in hand usually takes two to four weeks, depending on how quickly you schedule and pass your road test.

The written knowledge test and road test

The written test covers California traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You can take the test in English or Spanish. You must answer at least 30 out of 36 questions correctly to pass. The DMV provides a free handbook in multiple languages that covers all the material on the test. Many people study the handbook for a few weeks before taking the test.

The road test checks whether you can operate a vehicle safely. The examiner watches you start the car, use turn signals, make turns, stop at stop signs and red lights, parallel park, and respond to traffic. You must follow all traffic laws during the test. If you fail, you can retake it as many times as you need; there is no limit on attempts.

Fees and license validity

An AB 60 driver license costs the same as a standard California driver license. As of 2024, the fee for a five-year license is $39 if you are under 70, though fees change periodically. You pay this fee once when you first receive your license. The license is valid for five years from the date it is issued, and you can renew it by mail or online before it expires.

If you need to replace a lost or damaged license, the DMV charges a replacement fee, which is lower than the original license fee. You do not pay the full fee again.

Privacy and data sharing

The DMV does not verify your immigration status as part of the AB 60 process. California law protects the privacy of AB 60 applicants: the DMV does not share your information with federal immigration authorities for immigration enforcement purposes. Your driver license record is treated the same as any other driver's record under California law.

However, if you are stopped by law enforcement for a traffic violation or other reason, a police officer can see that you hold a valid driver license. The license itself does not indicate your immigration status — it looks identical to any other California driver license. Law enforcement may ask about your immigration status during a traffic stop, but that is a separate matter from the license itself.

Renewing or replacing your AB 60 license

You can renew your AB 60 driver license by mail or online using the same documents you used to obtain it originally, or you can renew in person at a DMV office. Renewal is simpler than the first license because you do not retake the written or road tests — you only need to update your photograph and pay the renewal fee.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement at any DMV office or online. Bring your identity and residency documents again, and the DMV will issue a new license with the same number and expiration date as your original.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Federal law requires a Real ID-compliant document to board a domestic flight. California's AB 60 license is not Real ID-compliant. You can use a passport, consular ID, or other federal travel document instead. California does offer a Real ID driver license, but it requires a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), so it is not an option for everyone.

Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration case?

Getting a driver license does not change your immigration status or create a record that affects immigration proceedings. However, if you are in removal proceedings or have a pending immigration case, you may want to speak with an immigration attorney before explore, as they can advise you based on your specific situation.

What if I fail the written test or road test?

You can retake either test as many times as you need. There is no limit on attempts and no penalty for retaking. You pay a small retest fee each time you retake a test. Many people study longer or take a driving lesson before their next attempt.

Can I get an AB 60 license if I have been convicted of a crime?

Most convictions do not disqualify you from getting a driver license. However, certain serious convictions — such as a felony involving a vehicle or a conviction for driving under the influence — may result in a suspension or denial. The DMV will review your driving record and criminal history during the process process.

Do I need to be a California resident to get an AB 60 license?

Yes. You must prove that you live in California by providing two documents showing your California address. You do not need to own property or have a lease in your name — a utility bill or bank statement with your name and address is sufficient.