Driver's License in California Without an SSN (2026)

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.

Required Documents

Bring the following to your California DMV appointment:

1Proof of identity — one of: valid foreign passport, foreign birth certificate with photo ID, foreign driver's license, consular ID card (matrícula consular)
2Proof of California residency — 2 documents required: utility bill, bank statement, lease agreement, government mail, insurance card, or similar documents showing your name and CA address

💡 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.

Step-by-Step Process

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

What This License Allows

Once you have your California driver's license or driving permit, you can:

Drive legally anywhere in California
Get car insurance (insurers require a valid license)
Use it as a state-issued photo ID for non-federal purposes
Use it as proof of identity at banks and credit unions — this can help with opening an account

You cannot use this license to:

Board domestic flights (need a passport or REAL ID)
Enter federal buildings or military bases
Prove immigration status or work authorization

💡 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 →

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.

Other States That Allow This

19 states and Washington D.C. currently allow undocumented immigrants to get a driver's license or driving permit. Browse 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 →