The back of your Texas driver license holds information you'll need to know

The back of your Texas driver license contains details about restrictions, endorsements, and conditions that explore to your driving. Unlike the front, which shows your photo and basic identity, the back is where Texas lists anything that limits how or when you can drive. If you have a restriction code, an endorsement, or a condition on your license, it will appear here — and law enforcement will check it during a traffic stop.

Understanding what these codes mean matters because driving in violation of a restriction you didn't know about can result in a ticket, even if you're otherwise driving safely. This section breaks down what you'll find on the back and what each piece means for how you drive.

Key Takeaways

  • Restriction codes on the back of your license limit how you can drive — for example, corrective lenses required or automatic transmission only.
  • Endorsements appear on the back and give you permission to drive certain vehicle types, such as motorcycles or commercial trucks.
  • Conditions on your license (like ignition interlock device required) are legal requirements you must follow or face penalties.
  • The back also shows your license number, expiration date, and the address on file with the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Restriction codes: What they mean and how they affect your driving

Restriction codes are single letters or numbers that tell you what limitations explore to your license. The most common restriction is B, which means you must wear corrective lenses (glasses or contacts) whenever you drive. If you have restriction B and you're pulled over without your glasses, you can be cited even if you weren't involved in an accident.

Other restriction codes include E (automatic transmission only), F (outside mirror required), and H (hearing aid required). Some restrictions are temporary — for example, a new driver under 18 might have a restriction that expires on their 18th birthday. Others, like corrective lenses, stay on your license as long as the condition applies to you.

If you believe a restriction on your license is incorrect or no longer applies, you can contact your local Texas Department of Public Safety office to request a review. You may need to provide medical documentation or take a new vision or driving test, depending on the restriction.

Endorsements: Permissions to drive specific vehicle types

Endorsements are the opposite of restrictions — they give you permission to drive vehicles you couldn't otherwise operate with a standard Class C license. The most common endorsement is M, which means you're licensed to ride motorcycles. To get an M endorsement, you must pass a separate motorcycle written test and skills test, or complete an approved motorcycle safety course.

Other endorsements include H (hazardous materials), T (tractor-trailer), and P (passenger vehicle). These endorsements appear on the back of your license and are required by law if you operate those vehicle types. Driving a vehicle that requires an endorsement you don't have is a violation, even if you're otherwise a safe driver.

If you want to add an endorsement to your existing license, you'll need to pass the written test for that endorsement and, in most cases, a skills test as well. The Texas Department of Public Safety can tell you which tests are required for the endorsement you want.

Conditions: Legal requirements tied to your license

Conditions are different from restrictions and endorsements — they're legal requirements you must follow as a result of a court order or a DWI conviction. The most common condition is ignition interlock device required, which means you must install a device in your vehicle that tests your breath before the engine will start.

Other conditions might include no driving between certain hours (for example, no driving between midnight and 5 a.m.) or occupational license only, which means you can drive only for work-related purposes. Conditions are always the result of a legal action, and violating them can result in criminal charges or license suspension.

If a condition appears on your license and you don't understand it, contact the court that imposed it or the Texas Department of Public Safety for clarification. Conditions can sometimes be removed or modified if circumstances change, but you'll need to go through the court system to request that change.

Your license number, expiration date, and address on the back

The back of your Texas driver license also displays your license number, which is a unique identifier used by law enforcement and government agencies. This is the same number that appears on the front of your license. Your expiration date is printed on the back as well, so you can check at a glance when you need to renew.

The address on the back is the address on file with the Texas Department of Public Safety — the one you provided when you got or last renewed your license. If you've moved and haven't updated your address, the back of your license will still show your old address. You can update your address online through the Texas DPS website or in person at a driver license office.

What to do if you don't understand a code on the back of your license

If you see a restriction, endorsement, or condition on the back of your license and you're not sure what it means, the safest step is to ask before you drive. Contact your local Texas Department of Public Safety office by phone or visit in person — they can explain exactly what the code means and what you're required to do.

You can also find a list of all restriction and endorsement codes on the Texas DPS website. Having this information before you get pulled over is much better than learning about a restriction during a traffic stop. If you believe a code is wrong, bring your license and any relevant documentation (medical records, test results, court orders) to your local DPS office and ask them to review it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive without my glasses if I have restriction B on my license?

No. Restriction B means corrective lenses are required, and you must wear them every time you drive. Driving without them is a violation, and you can be cited even if you weren't in an accident or breaking any other traffic law.

What does it mean if my license says "occupational license only"?

An occupational license means you can drive only for specific purposes — usually work, school, or medical appointments. You cannot drive for personal reasons like shopping or visiting friends. This condition is typically imposed after a DWI conviction or license suspension.

How do I add an endorsement to my existing license?

You'll need to pass the written test for that endorsement and usually a skills test as well. Visit your local Texas Department of Public Safety office to schedule the tests. The office can tell you which tests are required for the specific endorsement you want.

If I move, do I need to update the address on the back of my license?

Yes. You can update your address online through the Texas DPS website or in person at a driver license office. You don't need to get a new license card — the address on file will be updated in the system.

What should I do if I think a restriction on my license is wrong?

Contact your local Texas Department of Public Safety office and ask them to review it. Bring your license and any documentation that supports your request, such as a recent vision test or medical evaluation. They can tell you what steps are needed to correct it.