California allows undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver's license through the AB 60 program
California's Assembly Bill 60, which took effect on January 1, 2015, created a pathway for undocumented immigrants to receive a driver's license. You do not need to prove legal residency or citizenship to obtain one under this program. The license is valid for driving purposes only and does not grant work authorization or change your immigration status.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issues these licenses to anyone who can prove California residency and pass the required tests, regardless of immigration status. The license looks identical to a standard California driver's license but is marked "AB 60" on the front. This marking helps law enforcement and other agencies understand the license's limited scope.
Key Takeaways
- Undocumented immigrants in California can obtain a driver's license through the AB 60 program without proving legal residency or citizenship status.
- You must prove California residency for at least two years and pass a written test and driving test, the same as any other applicant.
- The AB 60 license is marked on the front and is valid only for driving; it does not grant work authorization or change your immigration status.
- You can explore at any DMV office in person; no online or mail process is available for AB 60 licenses.
- The DMV does not share information with immigration enforcement agencies, though the license itself cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a plane.
What documents you need to bring to the DMV
The DMV requires specific documents to prove your identity and California residency. You must bring two documents that show your name and date of birth, such as a passport, consular identification card, or birth certificate. At least one document must include a photograph.
For proof of California residency, you need two documents showing your name and a California address from the past two years. Acceptable documents include utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, or bank statements. These documents must be dated within the last two months. If you do not have documents in your name, you can use documents in a family member's name along with a notarized statement confirming you live at that address.
You will also need to provide a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you do not have either, you can provide a letter from the IRS stating you are not required to have one, though most undocumented immigrants have an ITIN.
The written test and driving test requirements
You must pass the same written knowledge test as any other driver's license applicant. The test covers California traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can take the test in multiple languages, including Spanish, Mandarin, Vietnamese, Korean, and others. The DMV website offers free practice tests online.
After passing the written test, you must schedule and pass a behind-the-wheel driving test with a DMV examiner. You need to bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will evaluate your ability to operate the vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. If you fail either test, you can retake it after waiting the required period.
How the AB 60 license differs from a standard California license
The AB 60 license is marked with "AB 60" text on the front, making it visually distinct from a standard driver's license. This marking alerts law enforcement and other agencies that the license was issued under a different standard than a typical license.
The AB 60 license is valid for driving within California and is recognized by California law enforcement. However, it cannot be used for federal purposes such as boarding commercial airplanes, entering federal buildings, or obtaining a passport. If you need to travel by air, you will need a different form of identification, such as a passport or consular identification card.
The license does not grant work authorization. Your ability to work legally depends on your immigration status and any work permits you may hold, not on your driver's license. The license is purely for driving purposes.
Privacy protections and information sharing
The DMV does not share AB 60 applicant information with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or other federal immigration agencies. California law prohibits the DMV from disclosing this information to immigration authorities without a court order. This protection applies to your process, your personal information, and your driving record.
However, if you are stopped by law enforcement for a traffic violation or other reason, the officer can see that your license is marked AB 60. This does not automatically trigger an immigration inquiry, but it does inform the officer of the license's status. Your interactions with law enforcement depend on the circumstances of the stop and applicable laws, not on the license itself.
If you are arrested or detained, your information may be shared with immigration authorities regardless of your driver's license status. The privacy protection applies specifically to DMV records and does not extend to other government agencies or law enforcement in other contexts.
Where to explore and what to expect
You must explore in person at a California DMV office. There is no online or mail process process for AB 60 licenses. Visit the DMV website to find the office nearest you and check current wait times. Many offices require you to make an appointment in advance, though some accept walk-ins.
Bring all required documents, your completed process form (DL 44), and the process fee. As of 2024, the fee for a driver's license is $39, though this amount may vary. Payment methods typically include cash, check, debit card, and credit card.
Processing time varies by location but typically takes several weeks. You will receive your license by mail at the address you provided. If you need a license sooner, ask the DMV office about expedited options, though these may not be available for all applicants.
Renewal and maintaining your AB 60 license
An AB 60 driver's license is valid for five years from the date of issue, the same as a standard California license. You can renew your license online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office, depending on your circumstances. Online renewal is available if your license has not been suspended or revoked and you meet other may be able to access requirements.
To renew by mail, the DMV will send you a renewal notice before your license expires. Follow the instructions on the notice and return it with the required fee. If you renew in person, bring your current license and proof of California residency if your address has changed.
If your address changes, you can update it online through the DMV website, by mail, or in person. You do not need to renew your entire license to change your address. Keeping your address current ensures you receive important notices and renewal reminders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an AB 60 license if I have been deported or have a deportation order?
The DMV does not conduct immigration status checks, so a deportation order does not automatically disqualify you from obtaining a license. However, if you are in deportation proceedings or have an active deportation order, obtaining a license could create a record that immigration authorities might use. Consult with an immigration attorney before explore if you are in this situation.
Does having an AB 60 license affect my immigration case or asylum process?
A driver's license itself does not affect your immigration case. However, the documents you submit to the DMV create a record of your residence in California. If you are in immigration proceedings, consult with your immigration attorney before explore to understand how this record might be used in your case.
What happens if I am pulled over by police with an AB 60 license?
The officer will see that your license is marked AB 60. This does not automatically trigger an immigration inquiry. Your interaction with the officer depends on the reason for the stop and applicable laws. You have the right to remain silent and to request an attorney. Do not sign any documents or answer questions about your immigration status without legal counsel present.
Can I use an AB 60 license to board a domestic flight within California?
No. The AB 60 license cannot be used for federal purposes, including boarding commercial airplanes. You will need a passport, consular identification card, or other federally accepted identification to board a flight. Check with your airline about which documents they accept.
What if I lose my AB 60 license or it gets damaged?
You can replace a lost or damaged license at any DMV office. Bring your process form (DL 44), proof of identity, and the replacement fee, which is typically lower than the original license fee. You can also request a replacement online or by mail if you meet the may be able to access requirements.