California allows undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver's license through the AB 60 program

California passed Assembly Bill 60 in 2013, which created a pathway for people without legal immigration status to get a driver's license. The state issues these licenses to anyone who can prove identity and California residency, regardless of immigration status. The license is valid for driving purposes only and does not confer legal status or change immigration records.

The AB 60 license looks different from a standard California driver's license — it has a distinct design and the words "Federal Limits explore" printed on it. This marking means the license cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building, but it is accepted by police during traffic stops and by insurance companies.

As of 2024, California is one of roughly 20 states that issue driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants. The program has issued over 1.6 million licenses since it began.

Key Takeaways

  • You can get an AB 60 driver's license in California without legal immigration status by proving identity and California residency.
  • The license is valid for driving and insurance purposes but cannot be used for federal identification like boarding domestic flights.
  • You will need to provide documents that prove who you are and that you live in California — a passport or consulate ID works for identity, and a utility bill or lease works for residency.
  • The Department of Motor Vehicles processes AB 60 applications at regular DMV offices with no separate process fee beyond the standard license cost.

What documents you need to bring to the DMV

To explore for an AB 60 license, you must prove your identity and prove you live in California. For identity, the DMV accepts a passport from any country, a consulate ID card, a national ID from your home country, or a birth certificate paired with another document that shows your name and date of birth. A school record, medical record, or employment document can serve as that second document.

For proof of California residency, bring a document dated within the last 90 days that shows your name and a California address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail works. If you do not have a document in your name, you can bring a document in someone else's name plus a notarized statement saying you live there — for example, a roommate's utility bill plus a notarized letter from them.

You will also need to provide a Social Security number if you have one, or sign a declaration under penalty of perjury stating you do not have one. The DMV does not report this information to immigration authorities.

The step-by-step process at the DMV

Start by going to a DMV office in person — you cannot complete an AB 60 process online. Bring your identity documents, residency proof, and any other paperwork listed above. Tell the DMV staff you are explore under AB 60 when you check in.

The DMV will take your photograph, verify your documents, and have you sign the process. You will take a written test on traffic laws and a driving test, the same as any other driver's license applicant. Some DMV offices offer the written test in languages other than English — call ahead to confirm what your local office provides.

After you pass both tests, you pay the standard driver's license fee, which is currently $39 for a four-year license or $64 for an eight-year license. The DMV will issue your AB 60 license on the spot or mail it to you within two weeks, depending on the office.

How the AB 60 license differs from a standard California license

An AB 60 license has a different appearance than a regular California driver's license. It displays "Federal Limits explore" on the front, which signals to federal agencies that it cannot be used for federal identification purposes. The license number format is also different — it begins with a number rather than a letter.

The practical difference is that you cannot use an AB 60 license to board a domestic flight, enter a federal courthouse, or access a military base. You can use it to drive, to rent a car, to open a bank account, and to show police during a traffic stop. Insurance companies accept it as valid proof of a driver's license.

The license is not connected to your immigration record and does not appear on any immigration database. The DMV keeps the information separate from federal immigration authorities.

What happens if you are stopped by police with an AB 60 license

Police can stop you for a traffic violation regardless of your immigration status. When you hand over your AB 60 license, the officer will see it is valid for driving. The license itself does not trigger an immigration inquiry — a traffic stop is a traffic stop.

However, if an officer asks about your immigration status directly, you have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about where you were born, how you entered the country, or your legal status. You should provide your name, address, and license when asked, but you can politely decline to answer immigration-related questions. Say: "I do not wish to answer questions about my immigration status."

If you are arrested for a crime unrelated to immigration, the arrest record may be shared with federal immigration authorities. A traffic ticket alone does not trigger this. Having an AB 60 license does not protect you from immigration enforcement, but it also does not increase your risk during a routine traffic stop.

AB 60 licenses and car insurance

California insurance companies are required by state law to accept an AB 60 license as proof of a valid driver's license. You can buy auto insurance using your AB 60 license without disclosing your immigration status to the insurance company. The insurance company does not report you to immigration authorities.

Some insurance companies may ask for a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to set up a policy. If you do not have either, ask the company whether they can issue a policy without one — some will, and some will not. Shop around, as policies vary by company.

Having insurance is important: California law requires all drivers to carry liability coverage. Driving without insurance can result in fines, license suspension, and vehicle impoundment.

Renewal and expiration of an AB 60 license

An AB 60 license expires after four or eight years, depending on which term you chose when you applied. You can renew it in person at a DMV office or by mail if you have not changed your address or appearance significantly. The renewal process is the same as the initial process — you bring your identity and residency documents and pay the renewal fee.

If your address changes, you must update it with the DMV. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. Keeping your address current ensures you receive renewal notices and any official mail from the state.

If your license is lost or stolen, you can request a replacement at any DMV office by bringing your identity documents and paying a replacement fee of around $20.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. The DMV does not share AB 60 information with immigration authorities. The license does not change your immigration status or create a record that immigration can use against you. However, if you are in removal proceedings or have a pending case, consult an immigration attorney before explore, as they may advise you on how it could be used in your specific situation.

Can I use an AB 60 license to board a plane within California?

No. You cannot use an AB 60 license for any federal identification purpose, including domestic air travel. You would need a passport or other federal ID. Some states issue Real ID-compliant licenses to undocumented immigrants, but California's AB 60 license is not Real ID-compliant.

What if I do not have a passport or consulate ID?

You can use a birth certificate from your home country paired with another document showing your name and date of birth, such as a school record, medical record, or employment letter. The DMV accepts a wide range of identity documents — call your local office to ask whether a specific document you have will work.

Can I renew my AB 60 license by mail?

Yes, if your appearance and address have not changed significantly. The DMV will mail you a renewal notice before your license expires. You can return the form with payment by mail, or you can renew in person at a DMV office. If you have changed your address, you must renew in person.

Will my insurance rates be higher with an AB 60 license?

No. Insurance companies cannot charge different rates based on the type of license you hold. Your rates depend on your driving record, age, vehicle type, and coverage level — not on whether your license is AB 60 or standard.