Legal FAQs

Criminal and Immigration Background Checks at the Federal Level

Who should get their FBI records?

It is important to obtain your FBI records if you have had any prior contact with law enforcement or immigration authorities. Visit the FBI website for further instructions.

How do I get my FBI records?

To obtain your records, you will have to send your fingerprints, an application, and a small fee to the FBI records request office.

Completing the FBI Record Application Form Be sure to include the address where...

Tips for Traveling with Advance Parole through DACA

If you have decided to travel and received advance parole from USCIS, below are several tips that will help prepare you for the process of going abroad. If you initially entered the United States without authorization and you are not grandfathered under 245-i, traveling on advance parole can help you fix your immigration status through an immediate relative (U.S. citizen parent, spouse, or child) more easily in the future....

Bay Area Food Assistance

Expensify.org: Expensify.org is matching $50 towards SNAP grocery purchases. Find more information here(link is external)

Alameda County Food Bank: If you are in need of food, call the Alameda County Food Bank Helpline at (510) 635-3663. Find more information at...

Criminal History Background Checks at the State Level

The California Department of Justice provides an automated service for criminal history background checks. This background check is not required to submit a DACA application, but may be important to determine your eligibility if you have a criminal record. This background check is recommended if you’ve had any contact with law enforcement in the state of California.

Steps for DACA Applicants

Review relevant information at the California Department of Justice...

How do I get my CA ID Card after my DACA Case is approved?

Once your DACA application has been approved and you receive your Social Security Number (SSN), the DMV may issue you an Identification Card (I.D.). NOTE: You must obtain an SSN before applying for an I.D.

How do I start the process? You can start your application once you have your work permit and Social Security number. Apply for your ID Card right after receiving your work permit and SSN. Your work permit must be valid for 60 days or more from the day you apply for your ID Card. Apply for your ID Card in-person at your local DMV office. To find your local DMV Office and for faster...

How can I get my CA Driver's License after my DACA Case is approved?

If you are over 18 years old, you may apply for a California Driver's License once your DACA application has been granted and you receive your Social Security Number (SSN). If you are under 18, you may apply for a provisional permit. NOTE: You must obtain an SSN before applying for a Driver's License.

How do I start the process?

You can start your application as soon as you have your work permit and your Social Security number.

Your work permit must be valid for 60 days or more from the day you apply.

Apply for your Driver's License in person at your local DMV office (...

How do I get my Social Security Number (SSN) after my DACA Case is approved?

Once your DACA application has been granted and you have received your Employment Authorization Card (I-766), you’re ready to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN). NOTE: You need to obtain an SSN before you can apply for a State ID Card or a Driver's License. The Social Security Administration has published a helpful brochure for DACA recipients, which you can download.

What's the process?

Determine whether you are eligible for an SSN.

Has USCIS granted your DACA application?

Have you received an Employment Authorization Card...