Undocumented immigrants to seek California driver licenses

SAN JOSE, Calif. -- Starting today, undocumented immigrants will be able to sign up for California drivers licenses.

Applicants are being told they must make an appointment online before coming in because so many people are expected to apply. Still, DMVs across the state are preparing for long lines. DMVs have called in 900 additional staffers and some field offices will be open Saturday to deal with all the new paperwork.

The program is designed to make the roads safer and to make life easier for immigrants. Now they can get access to auto insurance. This is a huge relief for many undocumented immigrants who haven't been able to apply for a driver's license in more than 20 years -- when the state started requiring proof of legal residency.

"It's exciting to think that you're not going to be afraid when you see a cop behind you and thinking about it if it happens, what's going to happen? How am I going to feed my family? It's more important to feed my family than to pay a ticket." said undocumented immigrant Diego Colli.

More than 1 million immigrants in the state of California are expected to flood DMVs over the next couple years. Critics are concerned about the ability to identify foreign applicants.

Advocates are applauding this change, saying it will make life easier for undocumented immigrants for everyday tasks like taking kids to school.