California DMV · Checked against dmv.ca.gov on October 9, 2026
Can I get a California license with an EAD, a pending green card or another pending status?
Yes, with a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD, Form I-766). DMV accepts it for both a REAL ID and a standard license, and the license will usually be a limited-term card that expires when the EAD does. A receipt notice for a pending green card application (I-485) is not on DMV's list of accepted identity documents. DMV accepts an I-797 only in specific cases, such as an approved extension or change of status.
Documents that work while a case is pending
A valid EAD card, an unexpired foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa and an approved I-94, or a foreign passport stamped "Processed for I-551" are all on DMV's lists. DMV's standard (federal non-compliant) list also accepts an I-797 approval notice that shows an approved extension of stay or change of status, or that says a green card is being issued.
What doesn't work by itself
An I-797C receipt showing that USCIS received your I-485 or I-765 is not on DMV's identity document lists. If a receipt is all you have, DMV's pages don't describe a way to use it alone. Wait for the EAD card or approval notice, or ask DMV before booking a visit.
Limited-term licenses
If your document expires less than five years after you apply, your license is limited term and expires with that document. To get a card at all, your legal presence must be valid for at least 60 days from your application date. When you get a new EAD or a green card, bring it to DMV to extend or replace the card.
Social Security number
DMV asks every applicant for a Social Security number. Its standard-license list says that if you are legally present but not eligible for an SSN, you are exempt from that requirement.
If your green card is approved
A valid Permanent Resident Card is an accepted document, and an expired one is accepted together with an I-797 notice. Once you have it, your next license can run full term instead of matching an EAD.
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FAQ
Do I need a REAL ID or a standard license?
Either works for driving. With an EAD, DMV accepts you for both. A REAL ID needs two proofs of residency; a standard license needs one.
My EAD renewal is pending and my card expired. Is it still valid?
USCIS ended automatic EAD extensions for renewals filed on or after October 30, 2025. Extensions granted before that date still stand. DMV's pages don't say how it treats an auto-extended EAD, so bring both the card and the receipt and ask.
What if I can't prove legal presence at all?
California's AB 60 license is for people who can't provide proof of legal presence. It can't be a REAL ID. See DMV's AB 60 page for the documents it accepts.
Official sources
- dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/real-id/what-is-real-id/real-id-info-non-u-s-citizens/ ↗
- dmv.ca.gov/portal/file/federal-non-compliant-dl-id-card-documents-list-pdf/ ↗
- dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/limited-term-for-legal-presence/ ↗
- uscis.gov/newsroom/news-releases/dhs-ends-automatic-extension-of-employment-authorization ↗
- dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/assembly-bill-ab-60-driver-licenses/ ↗