Q: What is AB 60?
A: AB 60 stands for Assembly Bill 60, which Governor Jerry Brown signed into law in 2013. The bill requires the department of Motor Vehicle or DMV to issue an original driver license to California resident who is eligible for a driver’s license, even though they are unable to submit satisfactory proof of legal presence in the United States.
Q: Do AB 60 applicants have to take written test and driving test?
A: Yes. According to information on the DMV’s website, AB 60 applicants must take and pass the written test and driving test the same as regular driver license applicants.
Q: Can I have my interpreter help me in the driving test?
A: Unfortunately, No. According to information on the DMV’s website, AB 60 applicants must show the ability to respond to driving instructions that are given in English.
Q: Is DMV ready for implementation of the AB 60?
A: Our office went to a meeting with DMV director’s representative to discuss AB 60 and its readiness, and was told that DMV hired up to 800 additional Field Officers to accept and process the application. The DMV is also opening 4 more processing centers in southern CA in anticipation of AB 60. The locations of these centers will be Lompoc, Stanton, Granada Hills, and San Jose.
Q: How does AB 60 driver’s license look?
A: AB 60 driver license will have a different look than regular driver license. It will have “FEDERAL LIMITS APPLY” on the front of the license, and a statement “NOT VALID FOR OFFICIAL FEDERAL PURPOSES” on the back of the license.
Q: Now that I have a driver’s license, can I apply for a job as a driver position?
A: It is very important to understand that AB 60 driver license is NOT a work authorization. DMV can give applicants permission to drive as NON-commercial driver’s licenses (this means Class C: Cars, Class M1/M2: Motorcycles, and Class A or B: Some RVs or trailers), but it does not give authorization to work. You must have a legal status that allows you to work legally in the U.S. or receive an Employment Authorization Document in order to receive employment.
Q: Well, if I cannot use that to apply for a job as a driver, what is the purpose of AB 60 driver’s license?
A: AB 60 driver’s license is a proof that you are allowed to drive and a proof of your identification. If you are pulled over or government officers ask for your identification, you can show them your AB 60 driver’s license.
Q: In what circumstances that I cannot use AB 60 driver’s license?
A: AB 60 driver’s license cannot be used for federal purposes such as to gain access to federal properties or to receive security clearance.
Summary: AB 60 driver’s license will benefit several thousand undocumented immigrants. Now they are able to drive to work, run errands, go to grocery store, pick up their children without fear of being pulled over for driving without a license and then being sent to immigration authorities for deportation. It will also keep other drivers safe, ensuring that all drivers must pass the DMV’s written test and driving test and must have car insurance.
** Information above is intended for general public information and not legal advice. You should consult with your attorney for your specific answer to your situation.
