California has long been a leader in progressive policies, especially when it comes to immigration laws. One of the most recent controversial issues in the state has been whether undocumented immigrants should be allowed to obtain driver’s licenses. In 2015, California passed Assembly Bill 60, which allows undocumented immigrants to apply for a driver’s license. This move was met with both support and opposition, with proponents arguing that it would make roads safer and opponents contending that it rewards lawbreakers. As the debate rages on, the question remains: can an undocumented person get a driver’s license in California?
The short answer is yes, thanks to Assembly Bill 60. This law allows undocumented immigrants to apply for a driver’s license if they can provide proof of identity and California residency. This includes items such as a valid passport or consular identification card, proof of residency in the state, and proof of passing the required written and driving tests. The license issued under AB 60 is marked with the phrase “Federal Limits Apply” to indicate that it cannot be used for federal identification purposes.
Despite the controversy surrounding AB 60, its implementation has led to some positive outcomes. Supporters argue that allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses makes roads safer by ensuring that all drivers are trained and insured. It also helps undocumented immigrants to fully participate in society by allowing them to drive legally to work, school, and other important activities. In addition, AB 60 has been a financial boon for the state, as the fees paid by undocumented immigrants for driver’s licenses have brought in millions of dollars in revenue.
However, opponents of AB 60 have raised valid concerns about its potential drawbacks. For one, they argue that allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses rewards illegal behavior and encourages further illegal immigration. They also worry that the licenses issued under AB 60 could be used for nefarious purposes, such as obtaining other forms of identification or engaging in criminal activity. Finally, opponents of AB 60 point out that the law does not address the root causes of illegal immigration and may even exacerbate the problem by creating a perceived incentive for undocumented immigrants to come to California.
In light of these concerns, some California lawmakers have proposed changes to AB 60 or even repealing the law altogether. One such proposal is Senate Bill 217, which would require all driver’s license applicants to provide a social security number or ITIN in order to obtain a license. Proponents of SB 217 argue that this would help to prevent fraud and ensure that only those who are eligible for driver’s licenses receive them. However, opponents of the bill argue that it would effectively undo the progress made by AB 60 and disproportionately harm undocumented immigrants who do not have a social security number or ITIN.
As the debate over AB 60 continues, it is clear that the issue of whether undocumented immigrants should be allowed to obtain driver’s licenses is far from settled. Supporters and opponents alike make valid points, and the outcome of this debate will have far-reaching implications for California residents and undocumented immigrants alike. In the meantime, undocumented immigrants in California can continue to apply for driver’s licenses under AB 60, knowing that they have the legal right to do so.
