California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill on Thursday allowing non-citizens to obtain driver’s licenses in the state, making California the first state in the nation to grant such access. The bill, known as AB 60, will go into effect immediately, providing an estimated 2 million undocumented immigrants with the ability to legally drive on California roads.
The decision to extend driver’s license privileges to non-citizens comes as part of a broader effort by the state government to improve road safety and strengthen immigrant integration. Proponents of the bill argue that allowing non-citizens to have driver’s licenses will make roads safer by ensuring that all drivers are properly trained, insured, and registered. Additionally, the ability to obtain a driver’s license will help undocumented immigrants access basic services, such as healthcare and education, and contribute more fully to their communities.
“This is a historic moment for California, as we take a significant step towards recognizing the contributions and humanity of our immigrant communities,” Governor Newsom said in a press conference announcing the bill’s signing. “By allowing non-citizens to obtain driver’s licenses, we are not only promoting road safety but also fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.”
Under the new law, non-citizens will be required to provide proof of identity and state residency, pass a written and driving test, and provide proof of insurance in order to obtain a driver’s license. The licenses will be marked with a distinctive design to indicate that the holder is a non-citizen and cannot be used as a form of federal identification. Additionally, the law includes strict privacy protections to ensure that the information provided by non-citizen license holders is not shared with immigration authorities.
The decision to grant driver’s licenses to non-citizens has been met with both support and criticism. Supporters argue that the bill will improve road safety, increase driver accountability, and provide undocumented immigrants with greater opportunities to participate in society. Critics, on the other hand, raise concerns about the potential for fraud and abuse, as well as the perceived reward for violating immigration laws.
“We cannot ignore the fact that millions of undocumented immigrants are already driving on California roads without a license,” said State Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia, who authored the bill. “By providing them with a path to legal driver’s licenses, we are promoting public safety and ensuring that all drivers are properly trained and insured.”
The implementation of AB 60 is expected to have a significant impact on California’s immigrant communities, many of whom have long advocated for the right to obtain driver’s licenses. For undocumented immigrants, the ability to legally drive will bring greater mobility, access to jobs, and the freedom to conduct daily activities without fear of being pulled over and facing deportation.
“This is a game-changer for our community,” said Maria Sanchez, an undocumented immigrant and activist in Los Angeles. “Having a driver’s license will allow us to live our lives with more dignity and independence. We are grateful to Governor Newsom and the state legislature for recognizing the importance of this issue.”
While California is the first state to grant non-citizens driver’s licenses, other states, such as Illinois and New Mexico, have similar programs in place. The success of AB 60 in California may serve as a model for other states looking to improve road safety and immigrant integration.
As the implementation of AB 60 begins, state officials are working to ensure a smooth transition and provide information to non-citizens on how to apply for a driver’s license. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has set up special workshops and resources to assist undocumented immigrants in the application process and educate them on their rights and responsibilities as license holders.
“California is leading the way in recognizing the humanity and contributions of all of its residents,” said DMV Director Steve Gordon. “We are committed to ensuring that all drivers, regardless of their immigration status, receive the training and support they need to drive safely and responsibly on our roads.”
With the signing of AB 60, California has taken a bold step towards promoting road safety, strengthening immigrant integration, and fostering a more inclusive society. The decision to grant non-citizens driver’s licenses represents a significant victory for undocumented immigrants and a testament to the state’s commitment to equity and justice for all residents.
