California Passes Law to Give Undocumented Workers Legal Driving Permits

On Thursday California joined the growing list of states that will allow undocumented workers in the U.S. to obtain driver's licenses to drive legally within the state.

With the support of immigrant rights advocates, police chiefs and insurance authorities, Democratic Gov. Jerry Brown signed the bill on the steps of L.A. City Hall.

"This is only the first step. When a million people without their documents drive legally with respect to the state of California, the rest of this country will have to stand up and take notice," said Brown, according to the LA Times. "No longer are undocumented people in the shadows, they are alive and well and respected in the state of California."

L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti and Police Chief Charlie Beck also applauded the legislation.

"Today is a great a day for Los Angeles, for all of California, and we hope an inspiration for this nation," Garcetti said.

The measure, which was written by Assemblyman Luis Alejo, will grant licenses to anyone who passes the written and road tests, regardless of immigration status. State officials estimate that under the law 1.4 million drivers will apply for licenses, reports the AP.

State and local officials also touted the importance of getting immigrants properly trained and tested so that they know how to drive and are familiar with the rules of the road in California.

The licenses, which are expected to become available no later than January 2015, will include the notation "DP," for driving privilege, to distinguish them from regular driver's licenses. In addition, a notice on the cards will say: "This card is not acceptable for official federal purposes. This license is issued only as a license to drive a motor vehicle. It does not establish eligibility for employment, voter registration or public benefits."

Supporters said the law would make roadways safer because there would be less motivation for drivers afraid of being deported to flee the scene of a traffic accident. They would also be tested on the rules of the road.