Concerns rise as DMV prepares to issue licenses to undocumented immigrants

As the Department of Motor Vehicles gears up to issue driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants, there are a number of concerns about how the program will work.

Starting next January, 1.4 million people will be able to apply for a license.

The federal government wants the cards to be slightly different from the standard-issue cards, and that is creating some anxiety among some immigrants.

"It is hard for the community to understand how this wouldn't open opportunities for enforcement agencies to discriminate," said Sandy Valenciano, a member of the California Immigrant Youth Justice Alliance. "There is a percentage that will not apply due to fear."

Cost is another concern.

Right now, immigrants will need two pieces of identification, including a passport, to get a license.

A public hearing on the regulations will be held next week in Oakland.