California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill into law allowing undocumented immigrants to obtain driver’s licenses, making the state the largest in the country to grant this privilege to individuals living in the U.S. without legal status.
The bill, known as AB 60, was passed by the California State Legislature in 2013, but it took six years for it to be fully implemented due to legal challenges and bureaucratic hurdles. Now, undocumented immigrants in California can apply for a driver’s license without revealing their immigration status, as long as they can provide proof of identity and residency in the state.
The decision to grant driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants has been met with mixed reactions from various sectors of society. Supporters of the bill argue that it will make roads safer by ensuring that all drivers on the road have passed a driving test and have the necessary skills to operate a vehicle safely. They also believe that it will help integrate undocumented immigrants into society by allowing them to drive to work, school, and other essential services.
On the other hand, opponents of the bill fear that granting driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants will encourage illegal immigration and lead to potential security risks. They argue that undocumented immigrants should not be rewarded with the privilege of driving on public roads when they have violated immigration laws.
Despite the controversy surrounding the issue, many undocumented immigrants in California are grateful for the opportunity to obtain a driver’s license. For them, having a valid form of identification opens up a world of possibilities, allowing them to drive legally, apply for auto insurance, and access various services that require identification.
Maria Torres, an undocumented immigrant living in Los Angeles, expressed her gratitude for the new law. “Having a driver’s license means everything to me. It gives me the freedom to drive to work, take my kids to school, and live a more independent life,” she said. “I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders.”
To obtain a driver’s license under AB 60, undocumented immigrants must provide proof of identity through a foreign passport or consular identification card, as well as proof of residency in California. They must also pass a written exam, vision test, and driving test, just like any other applicant for a driver’s license.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has been working to process a large number of applications from undocumented immigrants seeking driver’s licenses. The DMV has opened new offices, extended hours, and hired additional staff to accommodate the increased demand for services.
Despite the challenges of implementing the new law, the DMV is committed to ensuring that all eligible applicants receive their driver’s licenses in a timely manner. Licenses issued under AB 60 are marked with the phrase “Federal Limits Apply,” indicating that they cannot be used as federal identification or for certain purposes such as boarding a plane.
As more undocumented immigrants in California obtain driver’s licenses, the state is likely to see a positive impact on road safety and community integration. With the ability to drive legally, undocumented immigrants can contribute more effectively to the economy, access essential services, and participate more fully in society.
Governor Newsom’s decision to sign AB 60 into law reflects California’s commitment to inclusivity and respect for immigrant communities. By granting driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants, the state is sending a powerful message that all residents, regardless of immigration status, deserve the chance to thrive and succeed.
In the coming years, the implementation of AB 60 is expected to have a transformative impact on the lives of undocumented immigrants in California. With the ability to drive legally, access essential services, and fully participate in society, these individuals will have more opportunities to build a brighter future for themselves and their families.
