Obtaining a driver’s license in California is a rite of passage for many residents, allowing them the freedom to travel on the state’s roads and highways. However, for those who do not have a Social Security Number (SSN), the process can be a bit trickier.
In the United States, a Social Security Number is typically required to obtain a driver’s license. However, in California, there is a way for individuals without an SSN to still apply for and receive a driver’s license.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offers an alternative for those who do not have an SSN. This alternative is known as an AB 60 driver’s license, named after Assembly Bill 60, which was signed into law in 2013.
Under AB 60, individuals who are unable to provide proof of legal presence in the United States can still apply for a California driver’s license. This includes undocumented immigrants, individuals with temporary legal status, and others who may not have an SSN.
To apply for an AB 60 driver’s license, applicants must provide a list of documents to prove their identity and California residency. These documents may include a foreign passport, a consular identification card, a birth certificate, and proof of residency such as a utility bill or rental agreement.
Applicants must also pass a written knowledge test and a driving skills test to demonstrate their ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.
Once approved, AB 60 driver’s licenses are valid for five years and can be used for driving purposes only. They cannot be used as a form of identification for federal purposes, such as boarding an airplane or entering federal buildings.
Despite the limitations of an AB 60 driver’s license, it has been a game-changer for many individuals in California who previously faced barriers to obtaining a driver’s license.
According to the California DMV, over one million AB 60 driver’s licenses have been issued since the program began in January 2015. This has not only allowed individuals to legally drive in the state but has also improved road safety by ensuring that all drivers on the road are licensed and insured.
The AB 60 driver’s license has also had a positive impact on the economy, as it allows individuals to travel to work, school, and other essential locations without fear of being pulled over and cited for driving without a license. This, in turn, has increased access to job opportunities and improved the overall quality of life for many individuals in California.
Despite the success of the AB 60 program, there have been some challenges along the way. Some critics argue that allowing individuals without an SSN to obtain a driver’s license encourages illegal immigration and undermines the rule of law.
However, supporters of the program maintain that it is a common-sense solution that benefits both individuals and the broader community. They argue that licensing all drivers, regardless of their immigration status, makes the roads safer for everyone and contributes to a more inclusive and equitable society.
Moving forward, the California DMV continues to work to improve the AB 60 program and make it more accessible to individuals who may not have traditional forms of identification. This includes expanding outreach efforts to educate applicants about the requirements and process for obtaining an AB 60 driver’s license.
Ultimately, the AB 60 driver’s license has been a lifeline for many individuals in California who do not have an SSN but still need to drive for work, school, or other essential purposes. By providing a pathway to legal driving privileges, the program has empowered countless individuals to participate fully in their communities and contribute to the state’s economy.
