California Issues Driver's Licenses to People Without Proof of Citizenship

California allows you to obtain a driver's license without showing proof of U.S. citizenship or legal immigration status. Since 2015, the state has issued what is called an AB 60 license — named after the law that created it — to any person who meets the state's driving requirements, regardless of immigration status.

This means you can pass the written test, vision test, and driving test, pay the fee, and receive a valid California driver's license that works for driving purposes within the state. The license looks the same as any other California license, though it carries a marking that indicates it was issued under AB 60.

Key Takeaways

  • California's AB 60 law allows you to get a driver's license without proof of citizenship or legal immigration status.
  • You must provide an acceptable form of identification — such as a passport, consular ID, or foreign driver's license — and proof of California residency.
  • You still must pass the written test, vision test, and behind-the-wheel driving test like any other applicant.
  • An AB 60 license is valid for driving in California but cannot be used as federal identification for boarding planes or entering federal buildings.

What Documents You Need to Bring

To explore for an AB 60 license, the California Department of Motor Vehicles requires you to bring proof of identity and proof that you live in California. You do not need to show a Social Security number or proof of citizenship.

For identity, you can use a foreign passport, a consular identification card (such as a Mexican matricula consular), a foreign driver's license, or certain other documents issued by your country of origin. The DMV maintains a list of acceptable documents on its website.

For proof of California residency, bring documents showing your name and a California address — such as a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.

The Testing and Licensing Process

Once you submit your documents, you will take the written test covering California traffic laws and road signs. You can take this test in multiple languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and others. Study materials are free on the DMV website.

After passing the written test, you will take a vision test at the DMV office. If you pass, you will schedule a behind-the-wheel driving test with a DMV examiner. This test covers basic driving skills, parking, and your ability to follow traffic laws. You must bring a vehicle and a person with a valid license to supervise.

Once you pass all three tests, you pay the license fee — currently around $39 for a four-year license, though fees change — and receive your AB 60 license. The license is valid for four years.

What an AB 60 License Can and Cannot Do

An AB 60 license is valid for driving in California. You can use it to rent a car, prove your identity to police during a traffic stop, and satisfy California's requirement to carry a license while driving. Insurance companies will write policies for drivers with AB 60 licenses.

However, an AB 60 license cannot be used as federal identification. You cannot use it to board a domestic airplane, enter a federal courthouse, or access a federal building. If you need to fly within the United States, you would need a passport or other federal ID.

Some private businesses — such as banks or retailers — may or may not accept an AB 60 license as identification depending on their own policies. It is always worth asking if you are unsure.

Where to explore and How Long It Takes

You explore at any California DMV office. You can make an appointment online through the DMV website, which is faster than walking in without one. Appointments often have shorter wait times, though availability varies by location and season.

The entire process — from submitting documents to passing all tests — typically takes several visits over a few weeks. Your written test results are usually available the same day. The behind-the-wheel test can be scheduled weeks out depending on your local DMV's availability.

Once you pass all tests and pay the fee, you receive your license when ready or within a few days, depending on whether the DMV prints it on-site or mails it to you.

Renewing Your AB 60 License

When your AB 60 license expires after four years, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person at a DMV office. Renewal by mail or online is simpler than the initial process — you do not retake the written or driving tests unless the DMV asks you to.

For renewal, you will need to provide updated proof of California residency if you have moved. If your identity documents have expired, you may need to bring new ones, depending on what the DMV requests.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not bring expired documents as proof of identity. The DMV accepts expired foreign passports and consular IDs, but check the DMV's current list to be sure your specific document is acceptable.

Do not assume your proof of residency is recent enough. Documents must be dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill from six months ago will not work. Bring multiple documents if you are unsure whether one meets the requirement.

Do not skip studying for the written test. Many people fail on their first attempt. The DMV provides free study guides in multiple languages on its website — use them before you go in.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. An AB 60 license is not federal identification and cannot be used to board a domestic flight. You would need a passport, passport card, or other federal ID. Some states issue REAL ID-compliant licenses that can be used for flights, but California's AB 60 license is not one of them.

Will getting an AB 60 license affect my immigration case?

Getting a driver's license is not an immigration action and does not report you to immigration authorities. However, you should speak with an immigration attorney about your specific situation if you have concerns about any government interaction.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test. There is no limit to how many times you can take it, though you must pay the test fee each time. Many people pass on their second or third attempt. You can practice with a licensed driver and try again.

Do I need a Social Security number to get an AB 60 license?

No. You do not need to provide a Social Security number. If you have one, the DMV may ask for it, but it is not required to get an AB 60 license.

Can I get an AB 60 license if I live outside California?

No. You must be a California resident to get a California driver's license, including an AB 60 license. You need to show proof of a California address dated within the last 60 days.