Who qualifies for an AB 60 license, what documents you need, and how to apply.
AB 60 allows Californians who cannot provide proof of legal presence in the United States to get a driver’s license. Here’s exactly who qualifies, what documents you’ll need, and how the application process works from start to finish.
We’re an independent guide — not the DMV. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of the California Department of Motor Vehicles. This guide is for informational purposes only — appointments and applications happen on the DMV’s official systems.
AB 60 is a California law that allows the Department of Motor Vehicles to issue driver’s licenses to applicants who are unable to provide proof that they are legally present in the United States. The law took effect on January 2, 2015.
The goal of the law is straightforward: make sure everyone driving on California roads is trained, tested, and insured. An AB 60 license is a fully legal California driver’s license for driving — it simply carries a different federal designation than a standard license.
Every AB 60 license is marked “Federal Limits Apply.” This means it is valid for driving anywhere in the United States, but it cannot be used as federal identification — for example, to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building that requires ID.
You may qualify for an AB 60 license if you:
There is no age restriction beyond the normal licensing rules — if you’re old enough for a license, you can apply under AB 60. Applicants under 17½ must also complete driver education and driver training, the same as any new teen driver in California.
The DMV publishes an official AB 60 Checklist listing the documents it accepts to verify your identity and California residency. Acceptable documents vary, and the list can change, so always check the current version on dmv.ca.gov before your visit.
In general, you’ll need documents that establish:
Important: Bring original documents, not photocopies — the DMV requires originals. If the DMV cannot verify your documents on the spot, your application may be sent to a Secondary Review process (see section 5), which takes additional time.
Before getting your license, you must pass the DMV knowledge test, the same test every new California driver takes. The good news: the knowledge test is offered in more than 40 languages, including Spanish, and the DMV also provides interpreter services if you need them.
You’ll answer questions about California traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can prepare using the California Driver’s Handbook, which the DMV also publishes in multiple languages.
You can take the knowledge test at a DMV field office. Written tests are generally not given after 4:30 PM, so plan to arrive well before closing time.
No REAL ID under AB 60. Federal law requires proof of legal presence for a REAL ID, so AB 60 applicants receive only the “Federal Limits Apply” license. After May 7, 2025, this card cannot be used for domestic air travel or entry into secure federal facilities.
Renewals: An AB 60 driver’s license renews every 5 years, the same as a standard California license. You can renew online, by mail, or in person depending on your situation.
Fees: License fees change periodically, and published amounts vary across sources — so we won’t quote a number here. Check the DMV’s official fee schedule on dmv.ca.gov for the current application and renewal fees before your visit.
California signed AB 1766 requiring DMV to issue ID cards regardless of immigration status.
No. Federal law requires proof of legal presence for a REAL ID-compliant card. AB 60 licenses are always marked “Federal Limits Apply” and cannot be used for federal identification purposes such as domestic flights or entering secure federal buildings.
No. A Social Security number is not required for an AB 60 application. The application process is designed for people who cannot provide one.
Yes. The California knowledge test is offered in more than 40 languages, including Spanish. The DMV also provides interpreter services and publishes the Driver’s Handbook in multiple languages.
Your application goes through a process called Secondary Review, where DMV staff take additional time to verify your documents. This is a normal part of the AB 60 process — it doesn’t mean your application is denied. Bringing complete, original documents from the official AB 60 Checklist is the best way to avoid delays.
Yes. An AB 60 license is a valid California driver’s license for driving anywhere in the United States. The “Federal Limits Apply” marking only restricts its use as federal identification.
It varies. If your documents verify on the spot and you pass your tests, the process can move quickly — but Secondary Review adds time. Your physical license arrives by mail after approval. Booking an appointment (rather than walking in) saves time at the office.
Yes, but you must complete the same driver education and driver training requirements as any California teen driver, including the required practice hours with a licensed adult.
Book your DMV appointment through the official scheduler — appointments save significant time compared to walking in. Bring your original documents from the AB 60 Checklist.
Book on dmv.ca.govLast verified against dmv.ca.gov: November 2026