California Driver's License Application: AB 60 Program

What is AB 60?

AB 60 is a law which allows California residents to obtain a driving license, even if they cannot provide evidence of their right to reside in the United States.

Why get a CA driving license?

You need a driving license to operate a vehicle on public roads in California. Driving without a valid driver’s license is a serious offense which will incur serious punishments. For instance, you may be arrested or ticketed if caught operating a vehicle without a valid CA license. Furthermore, your vehicle may be taken off you and impounded. A California driving license is also useful in that it can serve as identification (though is not a valid form of federal identification).

Do AB 60 licenses look different to ordinary licenses?

For the most part, AB 60 licenses look exactly like regular driving licenses. However, the back of the card will include the statement “not valid for official federal purposes” and the front of the card will also read “Federal Limits Apply”.

Why does an AB 60 license say “Federal Limits Apply”?

This statement means that federal officials and law enforcement agencies are not legally bound to accept your AB 60 license as a valid form of identification.

Who needs an AB 60 driver’s license?

You will need to apply for an AB 60 driver’s license if you wish to drive on California roads but cannot evidence your legal status in the United States. All CA residents aged 16 and over are eligible to apply.

Does holding an AB 60 license mean I am illegally present in the United States?

No. An AB 60 license simply means you are unable to show proof of your right to reside in the country. It is not necessary for you to be unlawfully present in the United States.

Will information from my license application be shared with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)?

The information you provide on your application may lawfully be shared with ICE if they make a request to the DMV as the result of an active investigation. However, none of the information you share will be passed on automatically and ICE have not indicated that they will make requests.

How do I qualify for an AB 60 license in California?

You must be a resident of California and meet the DMV requirements for holding a driver’s license. This will involve:

• Completing driver’s education (minors only)
• Passing the CA DMV written test
• Passing a vision test
• Passing a behind-the-wheel driving test

Can I take the CA DMV written test in another language?

Yes. The test is available in Spanish, Russian, Mandarin and several other languages besides English. Contact your local DMV office to find out if they offer the written test in your preferred language.

How do I prepare for the DMV written test?

Study for the exam by learning about rules of the road and road signs with the California driver’s handbook. Taking an approved driver’s education course (like the one we provide) is also a smart way to prepare for the assessment.

Is the CA driver’s handbook available in other languages?

Yes. The handbook is available in several other languages besides English, including Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Armenian and Punjabi. You can also request a copy suitable for people with visual impairments.

What documentation do I need for an AB 60 license?

You must provide evidence that you reside in California (such as a rental agreement, mortgage bills or utility bills), plus proof of identity (such as a passport or a California ID card). A complete list of documentation which can support your application can be found here on the DMV website.

How do I apply for a CA AB 60 license?

You must complete the following steps when applying for a California driving license:

1. Complete a driver’s license application form (online or at a DMV office)
2. Study in preparation for the DMV written test
3. Attend a DMV office, where you will:
   • Present your documents
   • Pay a non-refundable application fee
   • Have a thumb print taken
   • Pass a vision test
   • Have a photograph taken
   • Pass the DMV written test
4. Book and pass the road skills test

Note that applicants who are under 18 years old must also provide a Certificate of Completion from a state-approved driver’s education course.

Do I need a Social Security Number for an AB 60 license?

No. There is an option to provide a Social Security Number on the license application form but this is only because the same form is used for regular license applications too.

Do I need to make an appointment to apply for an AB 60 license?

Yes. Make an appointment to visit the DMV online at www.dmv.ca.gov or by calling 1-800-777-0133.

How much does an AB 60 driving license cost?

The fee for an AB 60 license is $38 (the same as a regular driver’s license).

Do I need to complete driver’s ed to get an AB 60 license?

Applicants who are under 18 years old must demonstrate that they have completed driver’s education in order to qualify for a California driving license. This does not apply to adult applicants, though completing driver’s ed can be useful in preparation for the general knowledge and road skills tests.

Besides a driving license, do I need anything else to drive legally?

Yes. You will also need auto insurance or proof of financial responsibility (proof that you can cover costs in the event of an accident or collision for which you are at fault). In addition, you must register your vehicle with the CA DMV. Registration must be updated annually.