AB 60 licenses not valid for federal purposes like boarding flights

Key Takeaways

• AB 60 licenses allow undocumented Californians to drive, but are not valid for federal identification or air travel.
• AB 60 licenses display “federal limits apply” and are not accepted by TSA for boarding domestic flights.
• Other states and federal agencies rarely recognize AB 60 licenses; they are intended for use within California only.

This FAQ is designed to answer common questions about AB 60 licenses issued in California and similar driver’s licenses in other states for undocumented residents. The goal is to help readers understand what these licenses allow, what their limits are, and how they differ from standard or federal ID documents. If you’re an undocumented resident, a family member, or someone assisting immigrants, this FAQ will provide clear details and guidance using official sources. We begin with the most common questions and work through related topics, including differences with federal IDs, valid and invalid uses, and other important considerations.

Most Popular Questions

What is an AB 60 license and who can get one?

An AB 60 license is a special kind of driver’s license offered in California 🇺🇸 to people who cannot prove their legal presence in the United States 🇺🇸. This means undocumented residents, who live in California 🇺🇸 and meet all other requirements to drive, can get a license under AB 60. Many other states have similar licenses, though each state may have different names or rules.

To get an AB 60 license in California 🇺🇸, you do not need a Social Security Number or proof of legal status, but you must:

• Prove your identity using documents allowed by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
• Prove you live in California 🇺🇸
• Pass all driving tests and knowledge exams given to any driver

For details on applying and the documents needed, see the California DMV’s official AB 60 application guide here.

Can I use an AB 60 license to board a plane in the United States 🇺🇸?

No, you cannot use an AB 60 license, or similar licenses for undocumented residents, for federal purposes like boarding an airplane in the United States 🇺🇸. These licenses are not accepted for air travel within the country, even for flights that never leave U.S. borders.

Important Note: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will not accept AB 60 licenses for boarding domestic flights.

Why can’t AB 60 licenses be used for federal purposes?

AB 60 licenses have clear markings that make their limits obvious:

• The front of the card says “federal limits apply.”
• The back of the card says “not acceptable for official federal purposes.”

This is because federal laws, such as the REAL ID Act, set rules for which types of identification are acceptable for things like air travel and entering federal buildings. States created licenses like AB 60 to help people drive, but these are not recognized at the federal level.

What exactly are “federal purposes”?

When it comes to government IDs and driver’s licenses, “federal purposes” means activities and processes regulated by the United States 🇺🇸 government, such as:

• Boarding any domestic or international flight anywhere in the United States 🇺🇸
• Entering secure areas of federal facilities and buildings (like courthouses or military bases)
• Showing identification to federal law enforcement such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

An AB 60 license cannot be used for any of these activities.

What do AB 60 licenses allow me to do?

AB 60 licenses are useful for several important things within California 🇺🇸:

• Legally driving a car or motorcycle if you pass the required exams
• Identifying yourself to state and local government workers, like police officers or at city offices
• Proving you can drive after being pulled over by police in California 🇺🇸
• Opening some types of bank accounts or cashing checks (some, not all, banks may accept this license)
• Interacting with schools, cities, and certain businesses within California 🇺🇸

However, private businesses or other states are not required to accept these licenses as valid ID.

What should I do if I need to fly domestically and I have an AB 60 license?

If you are an undocumented resident and need to fly inside the United States 🇺🇸, you must use a different form of identification accepted by TSA. The most common options include:

• A valid foreign passport (from your home country)
• A U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Document (also called I-766), if you have one

For the most current list, check the TSA’s official page on acceptable IDs for air travel.

Warning: Do not try to board a flight with only an AB 60 license, as TSA will not accept it and may ask for other documentation.

Can I use my AB 60 license to enter federal buildings or facilities?

No, AB 60 licenses, along with similar licenses issued in other states to undocumented residents, cannot be used to enter federal buildings, secure facilities, or any locations that require federally approved identification. If you try to use an AB 60 license to enter a federal courthouse, military base, or other restricted locations, entry will be denied.

What is the REAL ID Act and how does it relate to AB 60 licenses?

The REAL ID Act is a federal law that sets strict standards for state-issued IDs and driver’s licenses, mainly to increase security and reduce fraud. Starting May 7, 2025, everyone boarding a domestic flight or entering some federal buildings must show a REAL ID-compliant license or another approved identification.

AB 60 licenses do not meet these standards because:

• Applicants do not show proof of legal presence in the United States 🇺🇸
• The licenses are clearly labeled that “federal limits apply”

If you have an AB 60 license, you are not eligible to get a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license unless your immigration status changes in the future.

Are there any exceptions to these federal restrictions?

No. The federal government has strict rules and does not make exceptions for AB 60 licenses or similar driver’s licenses issued to undocumented residents. No matter your circumstances, these licenses can never be used for federal identification purposes, including air travel and entry into certain government buildings.

Can I show my AB 60 license to police officers or state officials?

Yes. In California 🇺🇸, you are allowed to present your AB 60 license to state and local law enforcement (like police officers, county sheriffs, highway patrol) as proof of your identity and your legal ability to drive. Officers in California 🇺🇸 must accept AB 60 licenses in all regular traffic stops or incidents.

• By law, police cannot use an AB 60 license to start an investigation of your immigration status.
• State and local agencies in California 🇺🇸 are not allowed to discriminate against anyone based on presenting an AB 60 license.

Can ICE or CBP accept my AB 60 license during immigration enforcement actions?

No, AB 60 licenses are clearly marked as “not acceptable for official federal purposes.” This specifically includes interactions with federal immigration authorities like ICE or Customs and Border Protection. Do not present this license as valid identification if questioned by federal officials.

Will AB 60 licenses be accepted in other states?

Usually, no. AB 60 licenses are meant only for state-level use in California 🇺🇸. Other states may not recognize these licenses as valid, especially for identification. If you drive to another state, check local laws, or consider carrying other forms of ID.

What should I do if a bank, school, or business refuses my AB 60 license?

Many banks, schools, and private businesses in California 🇺🇸 recognize AB 60 licenses as a valid state ID. However, private businesses do not have to accept these licenses if they do not want to. If a bank, school, or company refuses your AB 60 license, ask staff what types of IDs they accept and whether there are alternatives.

What are the main differences between an AB 60 license and other California 🇺🇸 driver’s licenses?

• Standard California Driver’s License: Anyone who qualifies, including U.S. citizens and many legal residents, can get this with proof of legal status. These can be used for federal purposes if REAL ID-compliant.
• AB 60 License: Issued only to people who do not have proof of legal status. Clearly marked “federal limits apply.” Not accepted for federal identification.
• REAL ID License: Available only to U.S. citizens, legal residents, and certain other statuses. Acceptable for federal purposes like boarding flights after May 7, 2025.

Summary Table:

Do other states offer licenses like California’s AB 60 license?

Yes, several other states in the United States 🇺🇸 offer driver’s licenses or permits to undocumented residents. Each state uses different names and has different rules about what these licenses look like. However, all such licenses are marked to show they are not valid for federal purposes.

Will having an AB 60 license affect my immigration case or lead to deportation?

Getting an AB 60 license does not count as a federal immigration benefit and will not by itself impact your immigration status, application for legal status, or lead to deportation. The California DMV does not share AB 60 applications or information with immigration authorities just because someone holds this license.

What should I do if someone discriminates against me for holding an AB 60 license?

In California 🇺🇸, it is against the law for any state or local agency to treat you unfairly just because you have an AB 60 license. If you believe you have been discriminated against, you can contact local legal aid groups or the California DMV for help.

For more information on your rights, you can refer to the ACLU of Southern California’s guide on your rights with an AB 60 license.

Are there any common myths about AB 60 licenses I should know about?

Yes, some people misunderstand or spread myths about these licenses. Here are the facts:

• Myth: AB 60 licenses give you legal status or immigration benefits.
  Fact: No, they only allow you to drive legally in California 🇺🇸.

• Myth: Police can use AB 60 licenses to begin deportation proceedings.
  Fact: No, California 🇺🇸 officers cannot investigate your legal status just because of the license.

• Myth: AB 60 licenses are valid IDs for airport travel.
  Fact: No, they are not accepted for any federal purpose, including flying.

• Myth: Applying for an AB 60 license shares your information with immigration authorities.
  Fact: No, the DMV does not give your details to federal immigration officials just because of AB 60.

Where can I find more help or information?

For the most up-to-date and detailed guidance on AB 60 licenses and similar documents for undocumented residents, you can visit:

• The official California DMV’s AB 60 License page
• The ACLU of Southern California’s Know Your Rights page

As reported by VisaVerge.com, understanding and following all the restrictions around AB 60 licenses helps undocumented residents stay safe and avoid unintended problems with federal or local officials. Always check with state or federal websites if you have questions about acceptable forms of ID for specific uses.

Summary of Key Points:
– AB 60 licenses are for driving in California 🇺🇸 and do not prove legal status.
– They are not valid for any federal purpose, such as boarding flights or entering federal buildings.
– Undocumented residents must use other forms of identification, like a passport, for air travel.
– California 🇺🇸 protects the privacy and rights of AB 60 holders but other states may not.
– Laws and federal rules can change, so always check official resources for the latest information.

For questions specific to your situation, visit the official California DMV website or speak to a lawyer or immigrant support group in your area.

Learn Today

AB 60 License → A California driver’s license for those unable to prove legal presence; not valid for federal identification or air travel.
Federal Purposes → Activities regulated by the U.S. government, like boarding flights or entering federal buildings, requiring specific forms of identification.
REAL ID Act → Federal law setting standards for state-issued IDs required for domestic flights and access to certain federal facilities.
TSA → The Transportation Security Administration; oversees security for U.S. transportation systems, including requiring valid IDs for air travel.
Undocumented Resident → A person living in the U.S. without official immigration status or the required federal documents for lawful presence.

This Article in a Nutshell

California’s AB 60 license helps undocumented residents drive legally, but comes with strict limitations. It cannot be used for federal purposes, like boarding flights or entering federal buildings. Understanding these boundaries ensures safety and avoids misunderstandings. For travel, a different identification, such as a passport, is required instead.
— By VisaVerge.com

Read more:

• REAL ID rules to allow digital driver’s licenses for US flights in 2025
• REAL ID Act set new rules for driver’s licenses after September 11
• Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients can get REAL ID licenses
• AB 60 licenses not valid for boarding US domestic flights under federal rules
• Mobile driver’s licenses must meet REAL ID rules for TSA acceptance in 2025