Can Undocumented Immigrants Get a Driver’s License in California?
Yes. California allows eligible residents to apply for a standard driver’s license even if they cannot prove lawful immigration status. Under Assembly Bill 60, commonly called AB 60, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issues licenses to applicants who meet its identity and California-residency requirements. The license can authorize driving in California, but it is not a REAL ID and does not establish immigration status or work authorization.
California’s AB 60 Driver’s License Law
California’s AB 60 law took effect on January 1, 2015. It requires the DMV to issue a driver’s license to an applicant who cannot provide satisfactory proof of lawful presence in the United States, provided the applicant meets the other licensing requirements. The law is codified in California Vehicle Code Section 12801.9.
AB 60 is not a separate type of driving privilege with fewer testing rules. Applicants generally follow the same licensing process as other California residents: they must establish identity and state residency, pass required tests, and meet applicable age and application requirements. The difference is that they do not have to prove lawful immigration status to obtain this standard license.
The license is intended for driving, not as proof of immigration status or a general-purpose federal identification document. California law also requires a distinctive notice on AB 60 licenses explaining that federal limits apply. The notice indicates that the card is not acceptable for official federal purposes, such as certain uses under federal identification rules.
Who Can Apply for an AB 60 License?
A person may apply if they live in California and can satisfy the DMV’s requirements for identity and California residency. The applicant does not need to be a U.S. citizen or show lawful immigration status. The DMV does not issue an AB 60 license solely on the basis of being in the United States; the applicant must establish that they are a California resident and complete the required licensing steps.
Applicants who have never been licensed may need to apply for an instruction permit, complete driver education or training when required, and pass the appropriate knowledge and behind-the-wheel tests. Requirements can vary by age, license class, and driving history. People who already hold a license from another state or country should ask the DMV whether it can be exchanged or whether tests are required.
A person applying for a commercial driver’s license, motorcycle license, or another special credential may face additional requirements. AB 60 concerns eligibility for a standard California driver’s license; it does not waive federal or state rules governing specialized licenses or endorsements.
Documents Needed for a California AB 60 License
Applicants must provide documents the DMV accepts to establish identity and California residency. Because acceptable combinations depend on an applicant’s circumstances, the DMV’s current AB 60 document guide is the best source for a personalized checklist. Documents may include foreign passports, consular identification cards, foreign birth certificates, or other records that meet DMV criteria.
Applicants generally need to show California residency using documents such as a utility bill, rental agreement, bank statement, or other accepted record with the applicant’s name and California address. The DMV may require more than one residency document. A document’s acceptability can depend on its type, date, and whether the information matches the application.
A Social Security number is not required for an AB 60 license when the applicant is not eligible for one. Applicants should answer DMV questions accurately and follow the instructions for their situation. They should not submit altered, borrowed, or fraudulent documents. Providing false information or using a forged document can result in denial and may have serious legal consequences.
Check the DMV’s current document list
Before visiting an office, applicants can use the California DMV’s AB 60 document guide and online tools to determine which identity and residency records are accepted. A document checklist helps prevent a rejected application or repeat trip. Applicants with documents in a language other than English should check whether the DMV requires an approved translation or a particular document format.
How to Apply for an AB 60 Driver’s License
The process generally follows these steps. Exact requirements can differ based on age, prior licensing, and the type of license requested.
- Review eligibility and documents. Check the DMV’s AB 60 guidance and gather acceptable proof of identity and California residency.
- Complete the application. Applicants can use the DMV’s online driver’s license application when available, then follow instructions to finish the process in person.
- Visit a DMV office. Bring the required documents, complete the application steps, and have a photograph taken. The DMV may collect a thumbprint or other information as part of its standard process.
- Pay the applicable fee. Fees depend on the license or application involved and can change. The DMV’s fee schedule provides current amounts.
- Pass required tests. Depending on the applicant’s circumstances, the DMV may require a vision screening, knowledge test, and driving test. Permit and training rules may apply to younger applicants.
- Receive the license. After the application is approved and requirements are met, the DMV issues the license, often mailing the final card after an interim document is provided.
Applicants should make an appointment when possible and bring original documents or other forms specifically accepted by the DMV. They should also confirm whether a test appointment is needed and whether an interpreter or translated testing option is available.
What an AB 60 License Allows
An AB 60 license authorizes its holder to drive the vehicle types covered by that license in California, subject to the same traffic laws and licensing conditions that apply to other drivers. A driver must carry the license while driving and comply with rules on insurance, vehicle registration, seat belts, and safe operation.
The license does not grant permission to work, change immigration status, provide a path to citizenship, or prevent immigration enforcement. It is a state-issued driving credential. It also does not replace a passport or other document needed for international travel.
California’s DMV says that information submitted for an AB 60 application is treated under the department’s privacy and disclosure policies. The state’s AB 60 guidance explains protections and limits, but no applicant should assume that information is absolutely confidential in every circumstance. People with immigration-related concerns can consult a qualified immigration attorney or accredited representative for advice specific to their situation.
AB 60 License vs. REAL ID
An AB 60 license is not a REAL ID. REAL ID cards must meet federal requirements, including proof of lawful status or other federally accepted eligibility. California marks AB 60 licenses to show that they are not valid for official federal purposes.
For domestic air travel, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires travelers age 18 and older to present an acceptable identity document at airport security. A non-REAL-ID state license may not meet that requirement after the federal enforcement deadline, but travelers may use another TSA-accepted document, such as a valid U.S. passport or passport card, if they have one. TSA’s current list should be checked before travel because identification rules can change.
An AB 60 license should not be treated as permission to enter federal buildings, cross an international border, or satisfy a federal identification requirement. Whether a particular business or agency accepts it for a nonfederal purpose depends on that organization’s rules.
| Question | AB 60 license |
|---|---|
| Can it be used to drive in California? | Yes, for the vehicle class shown, if the license is valid and the driver follows applicable laws. |
| Does it prove lawful immigration status? | No. |
| Is it a REAL ID? | No. It carries a notice that it is not valid for official federal purposes. |
| Does the applicant need a Social Security number? | Not if the applicant is ineligible for one and otherwise qualifies under AB 60. |
Driving Legally After Receiving the License
Receiving an AB 60 license does not automatically satisfy every requirement for driving. A driver must keep the license valid, follow any restrictions printed on it, and maintain the insurance required by California law. California generally requires a vehicle owner or driver to demonstrate financial responsibility, most commonly through auto liability insurance.
Drivers should also ensure that the vehicle is properly registered and safe to operate. A license does not make it lawful to drive a vehicle without required registration or insurance, and it does not protect a driver from citations for speeding, impaired driving, or other violations. Repeated or serious offenses can affect driving privileges just as they can for other license holders.
New drivers should consider practicing with a qualified, licensed driver before taking a road test. California’s Driver Handbook covers traffic signals, right-of-way, lane use, safe following distance, and other rules that may differ from those in another country. The DMV publishes the handbook and sample knowledge tests in multiple languages.
Renewals, Replacements, and Changes
AB 60 license holders should follow the expiration date and renewal instructions printed on their card. Renewal procedures can vary depending on the license record and the DMV’s current requirements. The DMV may require updated information or documents in some cases, so applicants should review the renewal notice and official guidance rather than assume a license renews automatically.
For a lost, stolen, or damaged card, the holder can request a replacement through the DMV’s available channels. A change of address should also be reported according to California DMV rules. Keeping contact and mailing information current helps ensure that renewal notices and replacement cards reach the license holder.
Common Questions About Undocumented Immigrants and California Licenses
Can someone get an AB 60 license without a Social Security number?
Yes. An applicant who is not eligible for a Social Security number can apply under AB 60 without one. The applicant still needs to meet the DMV’s identity, residency, testing, and other licensing requirements.
Can an AB 60 license be used in another state?
California issues the license for driving privileges under California law. Recognition of another state’s license is determined by that state’s laws and the circumstances of the trip. Drivers should check requirements before driving elsewhere and should not assume that the license serves as federal identification.
Does an AB 60 license protect someone from deportation?
No. It is a state driver’s license, not an immigration benefit or defense against removal. It does not provide legal status, work authorization, or protection from immigration enforcement.
Can a person apply if they have a license from another country?
Possibly. The DMV determines whether a foreign license affects the application or whether the applicant must take California tests. Applicants should bring their existing license and ask the DMV what requirements apply to their specific record.
Where to Find Official Information
Rules, fees, document standards, and appointment procedures can change. Applicants should confirm details directly with the California DMV’s AB 60 page, the DMV’s driver license application and fee pages, and the California Driver Handbook. For federal identification and airport screening rules, consult the TSA identification requirements. Immigration questions should be directed to a qualified attorney or a Department of Justice-accredited representative.