Legal Services

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...

Legal FAQs

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...

Pandemic Unemployment Assistance in California

As part of the federal CARES Act, the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program helps unemployed Californians who are business owners, self-employed, independent contractors, have limited work history, and others not usually eligible for regular state UI benefits who are out of business or services are significantly reduced as a direct result of the pandemic. The provisions of the program include:

Up to 39 weeks of benefits starting with weeks of unemployment beginning February 2, 2020, through the week ending December 26, 2020, depending on when you became...

Unemployment Insurance Benefits in California

You can apply for Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits online at the State of California Employment Development Department (EDD) website(link is external). UI benefits are a government program that will provide unemployed workers with cash benefits (about 60% of wages) if they are eligible. If your claim is approved, a payment is made weekly on a Visa card that is mailed to you.

Only the EDD...

The Worker's Guide: Your Rights During the Coronavirus (COVID-19)

The guide to workers’ rights during the COVID-19 outbreak was prepared by Centro Legal de La Raza, Legal Aid at Work, and Bet Tzedek. This guide answers frequently-asked-questions about unemployment, reduced hours, reduced pay, government benefits, and more. You can find more information at Legal Aid at Work’s website here. Additionally,...

CARES Act Stimulus Checks

Undocumented and many mixed-status households will not receive cash assistance. However, DACA and TPS recipients may qualify for a stimulus check if they meet certain requirements (including meeting the “substantial presence test(link is external)“). Cash assistance is determined by your income. It also requires having a social security number. To receive a...

Oakland Undocumented Relief Fund for Workers

Undocumented workers who live or work in Oakland are eligible to apply for a $500 relief grant from the Oakland Undocumented Relief (OUR) Fund, created by Centro Legal de La Raza. The fund was created to provide critical support to undocumented workers in Oakland who have lost their jobs and income as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the aggressive public health measures necessary to combat the spread of this disease. To apply for a relief grant, visit the Centro...