AB 60: Key Questions about California’s New Driver’s License Law for Immigrants

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AB 60, California’s new Safe and Responsible Driver Act went into effect on January 1, 2015. It is a joyous time particularly for the state’s large undocumented immigrant population.

Now immigrants who can prove they are California residents and also have certain required documents can apply for a learner’s permit. After passing a driving test, they will receive a valid California driver’s license for the normal fee of $33. It is important to note that an AB 60 driver’s license cannot be used as identification for travel purposes other than driving a vehicle.

For a detailed list of the documentation required by the California DMV, please go to AB60 Eligibility Guidelines.

Visit AB 60 Driver License Implementation for general information from the California DMV about the application process.

Frequently Asked Questions about Safe and Responsible Driver Act

  1. Will I qualify for an AB 60 license if I have prior immigration violations or a prior order of deportation?

 You can still qualify for an AB 60 license, however getting a license could put you at risk if ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) is already looking for you due to a criminal offense or a recent deportation order. ICE has the right to ask the California Department of Motor Vehicles for information about you.

  1. Will I qualify for an AB 60 license if I previously received a California driver’s license using a fake name or social security number?

In your situation, you’re taking a big risk applying for an AB 60 license. Even though there are advocacy groups working to get the California Department of Motor Vehicles to relax its position, the department still pursues fraud cases very aggressively because they see them as a security risk. Do not apply with the DMV until you seek legal advice from an experienced immigration law firm like Nalbandian Law in the Los Angeles area.

  1. Will I qualify for an AB 60 license if I have a license from another state but never lived there?

If you used accurate information about yourself and the other state didn’t require a social security number, you shouldn’t have a problem applying for California’s AB 60 license. On the other hand, if you used any false information when you applied for a driver’s license in another state such as a fake name, social security number or something that identified you as a security concern, there’s a chance that California DMV could find out about it and begin an investigation. Don’t take an unnecessary chance; seek legal advice before you apply.

  1. If I have a deportation order but haven’t left the United States, will it place me at risk if I apply for an AB 60 license? 

You may be placing yourself at greater risk especially if you have a recent deportation order and if ICE is already looking for you. ICE has the right to ask the DMV for information about you. Once again, in your situation, it’s wise to consult an expert immigration attorney like Sassoun A. Nalbandian at Nalbandian Law before you apply for an AB-60 driver’s license.

Mr. Nalbandian explained, “We may be able to file motions to reopen our clients’ deportation cases to give them the opportunity to then apply for their driver’s licenses without the fear of detention and/or deportation.”

Schedule a Consultation Today!

Call Nalbandian Law at (818) 244-0310 or contact us online for a personal consultation with one of our experienced immigration lawyers about the new AB 60 driver’s license law and how it affects you.

*Approval rates do not guarantee future approval of your petition. No attorney can ethically guarantee any outcome. Always consult with a licensed, competent immigration attorney such as the experienced immigration attorneys at Nalbandian Law before filing your case.