Driver's licenses and identification cards.

Added an entirely new section amending Vehicle Code Section 12801.9 to require the DMV to issue driver's licenses and identification cards to applicants who cannot submit proof of federal immigration authorization, provided they prove identity and California residency.

The bill title was expanded from 'relating to vehicles' to 'relating to vehicles. the Department of Motor Vehicles.' reflecting the new DMV licensing provisions.

Expedited the deadline for the DMV to begin issuing identification cards to eligible undocumented applicants from July 1, 2027 to January 15, 2026, a reduction of approximately 18 months.

Added a detailed list of acceptable documents for proving identity and residency, including consular IDs, foreign passports, birth certificates, utility bills, marriage licenses, foreign electoral photo cards, asylum application forms (I-589), school transcripts, I-20/DS-2019 forms, property deeds, property tax bills, and income tax returns.

Added anti-discrimination provisions making it illegal for businesses (Unruh Civil Rights Act), employers (Fair Employment and Housing Act), and state or local government entities to discriminate against a person because they hold or present a license or ID card issued under this section.

Added a prohibition on peace officers detaining or arresting a person solely on the belief that they are an unlicensed driver, unless the officer has reasonable cause to believe the driver is under 16 years of age.

Added privacy protections stating that applicant information is not a public record, is exempt from the Public Records Act, and that documents provided by applicants cannot be disclosed except in response to a criminal subpoena, court order, or certified urgent health/safety need. Explicitly states that immigration enforcement does not constitute an urgent health or safety need.

Added a provision stating that a license or ID card issued under this section shall not be used as evidence of an individual's citizenship or immigration status for any purpose.

Added authorization for the DMV to charge an additional fee (on top of standard fees) to offset administrative costs of implementing the program, applicable only until June 30, 2030. The fiscal committee note changed from 'no' to 'yes' reflecting new budgetary impact.

Added a sunset provision making the section inoperative if a court of appellate jurisdiction enjoins or finds unconstitutional the underlying act that authorized these licenses and ID cards.