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Undocumented immigrants can have a California driver’s license as long as they can prove their identity and address . This type of licenses, known as AB 60, are The product of a law that protects this sector of the population, granting it certain privileges, including the possibility of legally operating vehicles in the state. Approved in 2015, the AB 60 are exclusive to those people with a vulnerable immigration status, people who, for one reason or another , have not been able to resolve their legal presence in the country.
Licenses AB 60 cannot be used as a form of identification, in that sense they can only be used for the simple act of driving in the entire state of California . Although they differ from the standard licenses and other Real ID or enhanced licenses , the AB licenses 60 – characterized by having the initials DP ( Driver Permit) instead of DL (Driver License) – are protected by law and cannot represent a reason to discriminate against their carriers . In fact, discrimination related to this form of license is illegal in the United States.
In addition to not being able to be used as a form of identification, AB licenses 60 do not have an equivalent to business licenses (CDL), a form of license governed by the federal government . To apply for an AB driver’s license 60 in California, The requirements are as follows:
1. Be able to prove identity, residence and have 16 years at least. A valid proof of identity is the passport of the country of origin.
2. Schedule a appointment with the California DMV.
3. Sign an affidavit of not having a Social Security number.
4. Provide the documents that prove identity and residence. DMV provides a full list of acceptable options.
5. Complete a identification.
6. Provide proof of having completed a driver education program, if you have less than 18 years.
7. Pass a vision exam and a written exam (knowledge test). In the case of the written exam, the DMV offers many test models in different languages so that the applicant can practice earlier.
8. Allow DMV to take a photo and thumbprint sample.
9. Pay the corresponding fee.
Once the written exam is passed, the applicant can schedule with the DMV a practical exam (proof of driving). This will be the last requirement: if the applicant passes the practical exam, they will be able to obtain an AB license 60.
It is important to note that, like drivers with a standard driver’s license or commercial license, holders of an AB license 60 cannot drive a vehicle that does not have valid registration and insurance in the state of California .
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