DMV prepares for flood of undocumented drivers license applications

FRESNO, Calif. -- The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is getting ready to be flooded with new driver license applications. On January second, undocumented residents will be eligible for licenses.

The DMV is hiring more people and expanding it's hours at many locations to deal with an estimated 1.5 million new drivers license applications they expect to receive because of AB-60. The law will allow the undocumented to get a California driver license. The hope is by allowing the undocumented to get a license, they will be better drivers and get insurance.

"We know people are out there driving and we want to make sure our roads are safer, that people are insured, so that if an accident happens, they stay and we exchange insurance and everyone moves along," said Jessica Gonzalez, DMV spokesperson.

For the undocumented getting a license means they can avoid getting their cars impounded and paying big fines for driving without a license. But to get a license the undocumented will actually have to get documents. The Mexican Consulate in Fresno is seeing a surge in those needing official Mexican identification so they can get a California license.

"The Mexican documents are the only documents that will be accepted without any further proof or validation," said Santiago Cortes, Mexican Consular Officer.

However the real challenge will be passing the test. For those from Mexico who can't read or write in English or Spanish, or who speak a native dialect -- getting a license will be a challenge.

"And see if there is a way to go around not taking the test , written test or at least have interpreters in the indigenous language while the individuals take the test or find other strategies so they can at least pass the test get a drivers license and drive safely on the roads," said Leoncio Vasquez, Centro Binacional Executive Director.

Outreach efforts are underway through the consulate and other organizations. To accommodate those able to take the test, the DMV will extend its Saturday hours at some locations. They are adding hundreds of new employees, and allowing anyone who needs a driver license for the first time to make appointments up to 90 days in advance -- starting December first.

Getting a first time license requires an appointment. The license for undocumented will look like a regular license but the words federal limits apply. Meaning its only a valid id for driving in California.