State Legislation Directly Impacting Undocumented Immigrants

Bill Name Title Description Who qualifies? Resources

Non-resident Tuition Exemption (In State Tuition)

 Exempts individuals from out-of-state tuition fees for certain nonresident students (including U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and undocumented individuals) who have attended, graduated, or achieved the equivalent from a California school. 
  • Attend three full years of high school in CA or the equivalent for a GED
  • Graduate from a CA high school, obtain a Certificate of Completion or a GED in CA
  • Not possess a valid nonimmigrant visa (unless a T or a U)
Expansion of AB 540 Expands AB 540 to include students who graduate early from high school with 3 years of HS credit.
  • Students who meet the AB 540 requirements, and
  • have obtained a high school diploma either by attending a CA high school or an accelerated learning program
CA Dream Act First Bill Students who meet the in-state tuition requirements are able to apply for and receive scholarships from non-state funds.
  • AB-540 qualifying students
CA Dream Act Second Bill Allows students that meet the in-state tuition requirements to apply for state financial aid at CA public colleges and universities.
  • AB-540 qualifying students
CA DREAM Loan Program Undocumented students attending a UC or CSU campus may receive a loan of up to $4,000 each academic year with a cap of $20,000 total.
  • AB-540 qualifying students
  • Those who have the qualifying income  
Professional Licenses This bill prohibits any of the 40 licensing boards under the California Department of Consumer Affairs from denying licensure to an applicant based on their citizenship status or immigration status.
  • Anyone eligible to apply for a license after completing their education
Driver License Implementation This bill requires the Department of Motor Vehicles to issue driver licenses to an applicant who is unable to prove legal presence in the US.
  • Any undocumented individual who is able to pass all driver license requirements