A linear regulator having an input node receiving an unregulated voltage, an output node providing a regulated voltage, a voltage regulator, a bias circuit, and a current control device. The voltage regulator has an input terminal, a reference terminal, and an output terminal which forms the output node of the linear regulator circuit. The bias circuit has a first terminal coupled to the output terminal of the voltage regulator and a second terminal. The current control device has a first current electrode which forms the input node of the linear regulator circuit, a second current electrode coupled to the input of the voltage regulator, and a control electrode coupled to the second terminal of the bias circuit. The bias circuit develops a voltage sufficient to drive the control terminal of the current control device and to operate the voltage regulator.