Introduction to AB 60 and Why It Matters
California Assembly Bill 60, commonly called AB 60, is a state law that allows eligible immigrants who are present in the United States without lawful status to apply for a driver’s license. Enacted in 2015, the law aims to improve road safety by ensuring drivers understand traffic rules, carry insurance, and can identify themselves to law enforcement when necessary. AB 60 does not provide legal status or a path to citizenship, but it does give eligible applicants a California driver’s license marked with the federal restriction code “44,” indicating the license is not valid for federal purposes. This guide explains who qualifies, what documents are needed, how to apply, and how AB 60 interacts with driving, insurance, and federal considerations.
Who Is Eligible for a License Under AB 60
To qualify for a license under AB 60, you must meet several criteria established by California law. You must be physically present in California, meet standard driver’s license requirements such as identity and residency, and affirm that you meet the medical and vision standards. Importantly, you must not already hold a valid driver’s license from another U.S. state or country. The law is intended for individuals who cannot prove lawful presence, so if you have lawful status or other qualifying credentials, you will typically apply through the standard process rather than AB 60. It is designed for people who otherwise could not obtain a license because of immigration status, not for those with alternative pathways to licensing.
Key Eligibility Checklist
- You are currently in California and reside in the state.
- You do not hold any other valid U.S. driver’s license.
- You can pass the knowledge and driving tests or qualify for a test waiver.
- You meet medical and vision requirements.
- You were born before January 1, 2015, to be eligible under AB 60’s original effective date provisions.
Documents You Need to Apply Under AB 60
When applying for an AB 60 license, you will provide identity, California residency, and ineligibility for a federal-compliant license documents. Acceptable documents are categorized to make verification possible even when applicants do not have standard proof such as a Social Security Number. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) accepts a range of documents, including consular identification, foreign passports, and sworn statements when original records are unavailable. Understanding what you can present helps reduce delays and supports a smoother application process.
Acceptable Document Categories
| Document Category | Accepted Examples | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | Foreign passport, Consular ID (CID), birth certificate | Must show name and photo when possible |
| California Residency | Rental agreement, utility bill, bank statement | Dated within 10 days of application |
| Ineligibility for a Federal License | Signed declaration, sworn statement | No Social Security Number or proof of ineligibility needed |
The Application Process Step by Step
Applying for an AB 60 license follows the same general steps as a standard California driver’s license, with adjustments to reflect the eligibility pathway. You must complete the application form, pass the required tests, pay the application fee, and provide all necessary documents. If you are not yet ready to test, you may still obtain a learner’s permit to study and practice driving. Fees vary by location and are subject to change, so it is best to confirm current amounts with the California DMV before visiting. The entire process can often be completed in a single visit if you have prepared documents and passed the tests.
Steps to Obtain Your AB 60 License
- Confirm you meet AB 60 eligibility and are not eligible for a federal-compliant license.
- Gather identity, residency, and ineligibility documents as listed by the DMV.
- Complete the Driver’s License Application (Form DL-44) online or in person.
- Pass the knowledge test, and pass or schedule the driving test.
- Pay the application fee and submit your documents.
- Receive a temporary paper license if your photo license is not issued immediately.
How AB 60 Affects Driving Privileges and Restrictions
An AB 60 license grants many of the same driving privileges as a standard California driver’s license, including the ability to drive legally on California roads, carry the license as identification, and use it to rent a vehicle when permitted by the rental company. However, there is an important federal restriction noted on the license: the code “44.” This indicates that the license is not valid for federal purposes, such as boarding airplanes or accessing certain federal facilities. You must follow all standard traffic laws, maintain insurance, and renew your license according to California timelines. Law enforcement officers can verify the validity of your license, and you may be asked for additional documentation if your status is questioned.
AB 60, Car Insurance, and Financial Responsibility
Holding an AB 60 license does not prevent you from obtaining car insurance, but it may affect which providers are willing to write a policy and how premiums are calculated. Insurers can see that your license has a federal restriction, and some choose to decline coverage because of perceived risk or compliance concerns. It is wise to contact multiple insurance companies in advance and ask about their underwriting policies for AB 60 license holders. When you secure coverage, policy terms and legal financial responsibility requirements remain the same: you must carry proof of insurance and be financially responsible for damages or injuries you cause. Safe driving, continuous coverage, and higher deductibles can help manage costs over time.
Renewal, Replacement, and Long-Term Considerations
Renewing an AB 60 license follows the same general rules as renewing any California driver’s license, including the renewal timeframe and eligibility for online or mail options. Because the license contains the federal restriction code “44,” you should be prepared to present eligible documents again if needed and to acknowledge that the restriction will remain unless laws or personal circumstances change. AB 60 does not provide a pathway to federal work authorization or lawful immigration status, and it does not shield holders from federal immigration enforcement. If your personal situation changes, for example if you obtain lawful status or become eligible for a federal-compliant license, you should update your driving credentials accordingly. Staying informed through official California DMV channels helps ensure you maintain valid and appropriate licensing over time.
Common Questions and Misunderstandings
Many people have questions about what AB 60 does and does not do. It does not protect you from deportation or immigration enforcement, nor does it automatically lead to lawful status. The program is limited to driver licensing and does not expand to other benefits such as employment eligibility or federal identification. Some applicants worry that having an AB 60 license will automatically result in higher insurance premiums or denial of coverage, which is not universally true; outcomes vary by insurer and individual risk factors. Understanding these boundaries helps you use the law as intended while avoiding misinformation. When in doubt, verify details with the California DMV or an immigration legal expert for guidance specific to your situation.
Conclusion: Using AB 60 to Drive Safely and Legally
California AB 60 is a practical option for eligible residents who need a driver’s license to operate a vehicle lawfully and carry out daily activities. By knowing the eligibility rules, document requirements, application steps, and limitations, you can make informed decisions and drive with greater confidence. The law supports road safety and responsibility while acknowledging the unique circumstances of certain immigrants. As with any legal process, keeping your information current, maintaining proper insurance, and relying on official sources will help you navigate the system effectively over time.