Can Undocumented Immigrants Get A Driver’s License In California?
Can Undocumented Immigrants Get A Driver’s License In California?
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As of January 2015, it is possible to process a license for undocumented immigrants in the state of California, which is known as an AB60 special license and does not require a social security number; this legal advance in people’s migratory paths was consolidated through the “Safe and Responsible Drivers Law.” This law answers the question, can undocumented immigrants get a driver’s license in California, affirmatively.
Before the entry into force of the driver’s license in California for undocumented immigrants, there was fear among drivers because problems with the police and the seizure of their vehicles were persistent since they were behind the wheel only with the license of their country of origin, which is not valid in California.
According to LAist News, there has been a significant decline in the number of immigrants applying for AB60 driver licenses. In the fiscal year 2014-15, a total of 396,859 immigrants applied for these licenses. However, by the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022, this number had plummeted to just 68,426. This stark decrease highlights changing trends and potential barriers faced by immigrants in obtaining ab60 drivers license over the years.
Key Takeaways
- As of January 2015, it is possible for undocumented immigrants to obtain a license in California. This special license, known as the “AB60,” does not require a social security number and allows immigrants without legal status to drive vehicles in the state.
- To obtain an AB60 license, you must schedule an appointment with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), provide proof of identity and residency, pay the appropriate fee, and pass theoretical knowledge and driving skills tests.
- The AB60 license is not valid for federal purposes, such as voting or accessing specific jobs or public benefits. Additionally, it does not protect against discrimination by federal agencies or enforcement of the laws of other states. It is always advisable to have legal advice in situations related to immigration.
What are the requirements for obtaining a driver’s license in California?
Since the entry into force of the driver’s license in California for undocumented AB60, a process must be followed for its processing.
If you ask, “Where can I get a driver’s license without social security ID for undocumented immigrants in California in 2024?” The answer is that an appointment must be scheduled with the Department of Motor Vehicles DMV, which can be requested online or by phone at 1-800-777-0133.
It is important to consider that:
- You must meet all California driver’s license requirements, which you can review here.
- Evidence must be provided that demonstrates identity and residence in California.
- The fee provided for requesting a license for undocumented immigrants must be canceled.
- It is an essential requirement to present and pass a theoretical knowledge test.
- You also need to take and pass a driving skills test.
If you are wondering, Can undocumented immigrants get a driver’s license in California? the answer is yes, by following the AB60 process. Due compliance with this process will bring you closer to having your undocumented license in your hands.
AB60 License vs. Regular Driver’s License: Understanding the Differences
In California, an AB60 driver’s license is specifically for undocumented immigrants, allowing them to legally drive within the state by providing foreign passports, consular IDs, and proof of California residency. Unlike regular licenses, AB60 licenses are marked with “Federal Limits Apply,” meaning they cannot be used for federal purposes such as boarding flights or entering federal buildings. Regular driver’s licenses, available to U.S. citizens and lawful residents, require proof of lawful presence like a U.S. birth certificate or passport and can be REAL ID compliant, making them valid for federal identification. Both licenses require passing written and driving tests and carrying auto insurance, but AB60 licenses offer confidentiality protections for immigration status.
What is the license for undocumented immigrants not used for?
It is essential to know that the AB60 license for undocumented immigrants is not valid for federal purposes. Even in its design, the upper right corner indicates the phrase “Federal limits apply,” although the rest of the format looks like a regular license. For those wondering, can undocumented immigrants get a driver’s license in California, the answer is yes; however, this document comes with specific limitations. This means that undocumented migrants who have this document cannot:
- Register to vote.
- Be eligible for a specific job.
- Opt for certain public benefits.
It also does not protect against discrimination by federal law enforcement agencies or enforcement of the laws of other states. If you ask
Simply put, the license for undocumented immigrants is legal permission for foreigners without social security to drive a motor vehicle in the jurisdiction of California, so it should not be shown at any time to a federal officer in the middle of a legal procedure.
If you or a family member have a matter to manage with the authorities, remember that it is always better to have a lawyer specializing in immigration matters to help you manage the situation; we are at your disposal at Kannan Law.
If I am a migrant without legal status, is it safe to have a driver’s license for undocumented immigrants?
Since the law was enacted in 2015, it is safe to have a license for undocumented immigrants unless you are processing an application from the Immigration Service (ICE). At the time of processing the license, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) must record your fingerprints, and ICE has access to that database. Therefore, we reiterate that at Kannan Law, we are at your service to advise you in this situation. If you are asking, “can undocumented immigrants get a driver’s license in California,” the answer is yes, through the AB60 program.
In this sense, displaying an AB60 license means that no encounter with an officer should result in an arrest for unlawful presence. That is to say, the license for undocumented immigrants prevents them from being discriminated against due to their immigration status. It protects them from being used as a basis for any investigation.
However, you should always keep in mind that you can be arrested for any event that a person with legal status can be arrested for, such as being caught driving under the influence of alcohol, and your license can be suspended.
Can an illegal immigrant get a driver’s license in California?
Yes, undocumented immigrants can obtain a driver’s license in California. Under California’s AB 60 law, which was enacted in 2015, undocumented individuals can apply for a driver’s license for undocumented in California, provided they meet all other requirements, such as passing written and driving tests. The AB 60 license is intended to ensure that all drivers are tested, licensed, and insured, improving road safety for everyone. The license is marked to indicate that it is not acceptable for federal purposes, such as boarding an airplane or entering federal buildings. Can undocumented immigrants get a driver’s license in California? Yes, they can, and the process includes submitting proof of identity and California residency.
What are the consequences of driving without a license in California?
Driving without a license in California is illegal and carries substantial repercussions. If you’re stopped by law enforcement, you may face fines ranging from a few hundred dollars to $1,000. Additionally, your vehicle can be impounded, causing further inconvenience and expense. For first-time offenders, there is also the risk of jail time, potentially up to six months.
These penalties can escalate with repeated offenses, leading to even higher fines and longer jail sentences. Moreover, driving without a license can severely impact your driving record, making it more difficult and costly to obtain insurance in the future. It’s important to understand that the legal and financial consequences can extend far beyond the initial incident.
Operating a vehicle without a valid license also puts others at risk, as it often means the driver has yet to undergo the necessary training and testing to ensure they can drive safely. This increases the likelihood of accidents and injuries on the road. To address this issue, many are asking, “Can undocumented immigrants get a driver’s license in California?” Understanding the licensing options available for all residents can help mitigate some of these risks. To delve deeper into this topic, you can consult here.
Summary
As of January 2015, undocumented immigrants in California can obtain a driver’s license under the AB60 law. This special license, known as the “AB60” license, does not require a social security number, making it accessible for undocumented individuals. Applicants must provide proof of identity and California residency. However, the AB60 license is not valid for federal purposes, such as registering to vote, obtaining specific jobs, or qualifying for public benefits. The AB60 license also cannot be used to board airplanes or enter federal buildings.
The introduction of the AB60 license aims to improve road safety by ensuring all drivers are properly tested and licensed. It allows undocumented immigrants to legally drive, purchase car insurance, and reduces the fear of deportation during traffic stops. This initiative is part of California’s broader efforts to integrate undocumented immigrants into society and enhance public safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the AB60 license, and how do you obtain it?
The AB60 license is for individuals who cannot demonstrate legal presence in the United States but meet California DMV requirements and can provide proof of identity and residency in that state.
- To obtain it, you must follow these steps:
- Complete the license or identification (DL/ID) application.
- Study for the theoretical knowledge exam.
- Visit a DMV office to present proof of identity and residency, pay the fee, and take tests.
- Pass the knowledge test and, if necessary, the practical driving test [1].
What limitations does the AB60 license have?
- The AB60 license is valid for driving and as a state ID but is not a federal ID.
- It cannot be used for specific federal purposes, such as entering restricted parts of federal buildings.
- It does not grant the right to work, vote, or receive additional benefits [2].
How many people have obtained the AB60 license?
According to the Department of Motor Vehicles figures, more than 1,274,262 undocumented immigrants in California have processed their AB60 undocumented license, and more than 896,920 have renewed their licenses [3].