Yes, undocumented immigrants can get a California driver license under AB 60

California allows undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver license through a law called AB 60, which took effect in 2015. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or have legal immigration status to explore. The state issues these licenses with the same validity and driving privileges as standard licenses, though they are marked differently on the card itself.

The process requires proof of identity, California residency, and Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You explore through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) like any other driver, but you use different documents to prove who you are and where you live.

Key Takeaways

  • AB 60 licenses are available to undocumented immigrants and carry the same driving rights as standard California licenses.
  • You need proof of identity (passport, consular ID, or birth certificate), proof of California residency, and either a Social Security number or ITIN.
  • The DMV processes AB 60 applications at regular license offices; you do not go to a separate location.
  • The license is valid for five years and costs the same as a standard California driver license.
  • You must pass the written test and driving test just like any other applicant.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

For identity, bring a valid passport, a consular identification card (matrícula consular) issued by your country's embassy or consulate, or a birth certificate with a government-issued photo ID. The DMV accepts these documents even if they are expired, as long as they clearly show your name and date of birth.

For California residency, bring two documents from this list: a utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, property tax bill, bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail with your name and address. The documents must be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have two documents, a notarized letter from a landlord or family member stating you live at that address can substitute for one of them.

For your tax identification number, bring either your Social Security card or an ITIN letter from the IRS. If you do not have either, you can explore for an ITIN through the IRS before you go to the DMV, or you can ask the DMV about other options when you visit.

how the process works at the DMV

Visit any DMV office and tell the staff you are explore under AB 60. You do not need to make an appointment, though wait times vary by location. Bring all your documents in the order listed above, plus your completed DL 44 form (the standard driver license process), which you can fill out at home or at the DMV.

You will take the written test on a computer or paper, depending on the DMV office. The test covers California traffic laws and road signs. You can take it in English or Spanish. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or return another day at no extra cost.

After you pass the written test, you will schedule a driving test. The DMV will tell you when an appointment is available, which is usually within a few weeks. You must bring a vehicle, proof of insurance, and your temporary permit to the driving test. The test takes about 20 minutes and covers basic driving skills, parking, and following traffic laws.

What the AB 60 license looks like and what it covers

An AB 60 license looks like a standard California driver license but has the words "AB 60" printed on the front. It is valid for five years from the date of issue. You can use it to drive anywhere in California and to drive out of state, just like a regular license. It does not grant you the right to work or travel across the U.S. border.

The license allows you to drive a car, motorcycle, or truck, depending on which class you test for. You can also use it to prove your identity when you need to, though some institutions (banks, airlines, federal buildings) may not accept it as proof of identity for their purposes. Check with the specific organization if you are unsure.

Cost and timeline

An AB 60 license costs the same as a standard California driver license: $39 for a five-year license if you are under 70, or $28 for a four-year license if you are 70 or older. You pay this fee when you pass your driving test and receive your license.

The entire process usually takes four to eight weeks from your first visit to the DMV to receiving your license in the mail. The written test can happen on your first visit. The driving test typically happens two to four weeks later, depending on how quickly you schedule it and how busy your local DMV is. Once you pass the driving test, the DMV mails your license to the address you provided, which takes another week or two.

What happens if you do not have an ITIN or Social Security number

If you do not have a Social Security number or ITIN, you have options. You can explore for an ITIN through the IRS before you go to the DMV. The IRS accepts ITIN applications by mail or through a tax professional. This process takes several weeks, so plan ahead if you want to have the number before your DMV visit.

Some DMV offices allow you to explore for an AB 60 license without a Social Security number or ITIN if you sign a statement saying you do not have one. Ask the DMV staff when you call or visit whether your local office offers this option. Policies can vary slightly between DMV locations, so it is worth confirming before you go.

Renewing your AB 60 license

You can renew your AB 60 license by mail, online, or in person at the DMV. The renewal process is the same as for a standard license. You do not have to retake the written or driving test. You will need to provide updated proof of California residency if you have moved since your last license was issued.

The DMV will mail you a renewal notice about 60 days before your license expires. You can renew up to six months before the expiration date. If your license has already expired, you must visit the DMV in person and may have to retake the written test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my AB 60 license to cross the border into Mexico or Canada?

No. An AB 60 license is valid for driving within the United States and for proving your identity in California, but it is not accepted as proof of citizenship or legal status at international borders. You will need a passport or other travel document to cross into Mexico or Canada.

Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration case or status?

Getting a driver license does not change your immigration status or affect any pending immigration cases. The DMV does not share information with immigration authorities. However, if you are in removal proceedings or have concerns about your specific situation, speak with an immigration attorney before you explore.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test as many times as you need. There is no limit on the number of attempts. Each time you retake it, you pay the test fee again, which is included in the license fee. You must wait at least two weeks between attempts unless the DMV approves a shorter wait.

Can I use my AB 60 license to open a bank account or get a job?

Many banks accept AB 60 licenses as proof of identity to open an account. Employers can also accept it as a form of ID. However, some employers require an I-9 form, which asks for a Social Security number or ITIN and proof of work authorization. An AB 60 license alone does not prove you are authorized to work in the United States.

What if I move out of California after I get my AB 60 license?

Your AB 60 license remains valid in California and for driving in other states. If you move to another state and want to get a driver license there, you will need to follow that state's rules. Some states accept AB 60 licenses as proof of identity for their own license applications; others do not. Check with the DMV in your new state.