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Quick Answer

Yes — California allows undocumented immigrants and ITIN holders to get a standard driver's license under AB 60 (2015). No SSN or proof of legal status required. To apply:

  1. Pass the written knowledge test at a California DMV office.
  2. Bring identity documents (foreign passport or Consular ID + 2 proofs of California residency).
  3. Pass the behind-the-wheel driving test.

The license is valid for driving throughout California but is not accepted as federal ID — not valid for domestic flights or federal buildings.

Can You Get a Driver's License in California Without an SSN?

Yes. California allows residents to obtain a driver's license (or driving permit) regardless of immigration status under AB 60 (2015). You do not need a Social Security Number or proof of legal U.S. presence to apply.

California was one of the first large states to pass this law. The AB 60 license is the most common license held by ITIN holders in the U.S. It is valid for driving anywhere in California and most other states, but cannot be used to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings.

License type

Standard driver's license — not valid as federal ID (REAL ID). This license is valid for driving but cannot be used to board domestic flights, enter federal buildings, or as a federal form of ID. For air travel you will need your passport.

What Documents Do I Need?

Bring 2 categories of document to your California DMV appointment: proof of identity (a valid foreign passport, national ID, or consular ID) and proof of California residency, which generally requires 2 documents such as a utility bill, bank statement, or lease. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.

Tip

Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If your documents are in a language other than English, bring a certified translation.

How Do I Apply Step by Step?

  1. Step 1: Gather your identity document and 2 proofs of CA residency
  2. Step 2: Visit any California DMV office — no appointment required but recommended
  3. Step 3: Complete the DL 44 application form
  4. Step 4: Pass the written knowledge test (available in Spanish and other languages)
  5. Step 5: Have your photo taken and thumbprint recorded
  6. Step 6: Pass the vision exam
  7. Step 7: Schedule and pass the behind-the-wheel driving test
  8. Step 8: Receive your AB 60 license in the mail within 3–4 weeks

What Can I Do With This License?

Once you have your California driver's license or driving permit, you can do 4 main things: drive legally anywhere in California, qualify for car insurance, use it as a state-issued photo ID for non-federal purposes, and present it as proof of identity to open a bank account. It cannot be used for federal purposes such as boarding a domestic flight.

You cannot use this license to:

Next step: build credit

A driver's license is accepted by many banks as a second form of ID alongside your ITIN — making it easier to open an account. See which banks accept ITIN →

What Is the AB 60 Law and Who Does It Cover?

AB 60 is the California Assembly Bill, signed in 2013 and effective January 2, 2015, that allows any California resident to obtain a standard driver's license regardless of immigration status or SSN. It covers undocumented immigrants, visa overstays, and ITIN holders who cannot prove legal U.S. presence.

Since 2015, the California DMV has issued more than 1 million AB 60 licenses, making it the most widely used pathway for ITIN holders to get a state-issued photo ID.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a driver's license in California without a Social Security Number?

Yes. California AB 60 (2015) allows undocumented immigrants and anyone unable to prove legal U.S. presence to get a standard driver's license. You do not need an SSN or ITIN to apply — you need a foreign passport or other accepted identity document and proof of California residency.

Does California require an ITIN for a driver's license?

No. California does not require an ITIN or SSN for a driver's license under AB 60. You can apply using a foreign passport, consular ID card (matrícula consular), or another accepted foreign identity document.

Can I use an AB 60 license to fly or travel?

No. An AB 60 license is not a REAL ID and cannot be used to board domestic flights, enter federal buildings, or access military bases. For domestic air travel you will need a passport. The license is fully valid for driving and as a state ID for everyday purposes.

What is a matrícula consular and does California DMV accept it?

A matrícula consular is an identification card issued by a Mexican consulate to Mexican nationals living abroad. California DMV accepts it as a valid identity document for an AB 60 license application.

Can DACA recipients get a standard driver's license in California?

Yes. DACA recipients in California are eligible for a standard, REAL ID-compliant driver's license rather than an AB 60 license. A valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and DACA-issued Social Security Number satisfy the DMV's proof of authorized presence requirement. Apply at any DMV office with your EAD, Social Security card, and identity documents.

Which Other States Issue Licenses Without an SSN?

Beyond California, 19 states and Washington D.C. currently issue driver's licenses or driving permits to undocumented immigrants without requiring an SSN. Each sets its own document rules, but all accept a foreign passport or consular ID in place of a Social Security Number. Browse the full list by state:

CA CO CT DE HI IL MD MA MN NV NJ NM NY OR RI UT VT VA WA DC

For the complete list with each state's law and requirements, see the full driver's license guide →