The back of your driver's license holds information the front doesn't show
The back of your driver's license contains details that identify you, restrict how you can drive, and tell law enforcement what you're legally allowed to do behind the wheel. Unlike the front, which shows your photo and basic identity, the back lists medical conditions, restrictions on your driving privileges, and endorsements that say you can operate certain vehicle types. Understanding what's printed there helps you know the rules you're bound by and what to do if something changes.
Every state formats the back differently, but the core information is the same. You'll find your full address, your signature, and a series of codes that mean specific things to police officers and licensing officials. Some of these codes are restrictions — meaning you cannot drive without them in place. Others are endorsements — meaning you've passed extra tests to drive certain vehicles.
Key Takeaways
- The back of your license lists your address, signature, and a series of letter and number codes that describe restrictions and endorsements.
- Restriction codes (usually marked with an "R" followed by a number) limit how you can drive — for example, corrective lenses required or automatic transmission only.
- Endorsement codes (usually marked with an "E" followed by a letter) show you've passed tests to operate motorcycles, commercial vehicles, or other vehicle types.
- If your medical condition changes or you get corrective surgery, you must report it to your DMV so your license can be updated.
- You are legally required to follow every restriction on your license; driving without required corrective lenses or in violation of a transmission restriction is a violation.
Common restriction codes and what they mean
Restriction codes appear on your license when the DMV determines you can drive, but only under certain conditions. The most common restriction is corrective lenses — if you need glasses or contacts to see well enough to drive safely, your license will carry this restriction. You must wear your corrective lenses every time you drive, and you must have them with you in the vehicle.
Other frequent restrictions include automatic transmission only (you cannot drive a manual transmission vehicle), daylight driving only (you cannot drive at night), or a requirement to use an outside mirror on both sides of the vehicle. Some states add restrictions for hearing impairment or for drivers who have had seizures. A few states restrict certain drivers to vehicles with power steering or power brakes. Each restriction exists because the DMV has determined you can drive safely, but only within those limits.
If you violate a restriction — for example, driving at night when your license says daylight only — you can be cited by police. The violation may result in a fine, points on your driving record, or both. If you believe a restriction on your license is no longer necessary (for example, you had corrective eye surgery), contact your DMV to request a vision test or medical evaluation. Once you pass, the restriction can be removed.
Endorsement codes and what they allow you to do
Endorsements are the opposite of restrictions: they expand what you're allowed to drive. An endorsement means you've passed additional testing beyond the standard written and road tests. The most common endorsement is for motorcycles — if your license shows an "M" endorsement, you've passed a motorcycle safety course and a separate riding test, and you're legally allowed to operate a motorcycle.
Commercial driver's license (CDL) endorsements appear on the back of a CDL and indicate what type of commercial vehicle you can operate. A "T" endorsement allows you to drive double or triple trailers. An "H" endorsement allows you to carry hazardous materials. A "P" endorsement allows you to carry passengers. You cannot legally operate a vehicle that requires an endorsement you don't have, even if you own the vehicle or a friend asks you to drive it.
If you want to add an endorsement to your license, you must contact your DMV, study the material specific to that endorsement, and pass both a written test and a practical driving test. The process varies by state and by endorsement type. Some endorsements require classroom instruction or a safety course before you can test.
Medical conditions and how they affect your license
When you renew your driver's license, the DMV asks whether you have any medical conditions that could affect your ability to drive safely. These include seizure disorders, heart conditions, diabetes, sleep apnea, vision problems, and certain medications that cause drowsiness. You are required to answer honestly. If you have a condition that could impair your driving, the DMV may require a medical evaluation from your doctor before renewing your license.
If your doctor determines that your condition makes driving unsafe, your license may not be renewed, or it may be renewed with restrictions. If you develop a medical condition after you receive your license, you should report it to your DMV. Some states require you to do so by law; others recommend it. Reporting a condition does not automatically mean your license will be suspended — it means the DMV will evaluate whether you can still drive safely.
If you have had surgery or your condition has improved (for example, you had cataract surgery and no longer need corrective lenses), you can request that your license be updated. Bring documentation from your doctor showing the change in your condition, and the DMV will issue a new license without the restriction.
How to read the codes on your license back
Each state uses its own code system, so the codes on a California license will not mean the same thing as codes on a Texas license. The best way to understand your codes is to visit your state's DMV website and look for a key or legend that explains what each code means. Most state DMV sites have a downloadable or printable guide to license codes.
Restriction codes are usually marked with an "R" followed by a number (R01, R02, R03, and so on). Endorsement codes are usually marked with a letter (M for motorcycle, P for passenger, T for trailer, and so on). Some states also use condition codes or medical codes to flag specific health concerns. If you see a code on your license and you're not sure what it means, call your state DMV or visit their website — they can tell you exactly what that code requires or allows.
What to do if your license back has an error
If you notice that your license lists a restriction you don't have, or is missing an endorsement you earned, contact your DMV when ready. Errors can happen during the printing process or if information was entered incorrectly when you renewed. You'll need to bring proof of the correction — for example, if a restriction should be removed, bring a letter from your doctor or proof of corrective surgery.
The DMV will issue a corrected license at no charge if the error was their mistake. If you need the correction urgently (for example, you're about to start a job that requires an endorsement), ask whether the DMV can issue a temporary license or a document stating the correction while your new license is being printed. Processing times vary by state, but most corrected licenses arrive within two to four weeks.
Changes to your license back during renewal
When you renew your driver's license, the DMV will review your medical history and driving record. If your vision has changed, if you've developed a new medical condition, or if you've completed training for a new endorsement, your renewed license may look different on the back. The DMV will notify you of any changes before your new license is issued, so you'll know what to expect.
If you disagree with a restriction the DMV wants to add, you have the right to request a hearing or a medical review. Contact your state DMV to learn about the process in your state. You may be able to provide additional medical documentation or take a test to show that the restriction is not necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to wear my glasses if my license says corrective lenses required?
Yes. If your license has a corrective lenses restriction, you must wear your glasses or contacts every time you drive. You must also have them with you in the vehicle. Driving without them is a violation, even if you think you can see well enough without them.
What happens if I drive a manual transmission car when my license says automatic only?
You can be cited by police for violating a license restriction. This is a traffic violation that may result in a fine and points on your driving record. If you need to drive a manual transmission vehicle, contact your DMV to request a test in a manual transmission car to have the restriction removed.
Can I get a motorcycle endorsement if I've never ridden a motorcycle before?
Yes. Most states require you to complete a motorcycle safety course, pass a written test about motorcycle rules and safety, and pass a riding test. Some states waive the riding test if you complete an approved safety course. Contact your state DMV for the specific requirements and a list of approved courses.
If I have a medical condition, will my license automatically be suspended?
No. Having a medical condition does not automatically mean your license will be suspended. The DMV will evaluate whether the condition affects your ability to drive safely. Many people with medical conditions drive safely with restrictions or medication management. Your doctor's input is part of the evaluation.
How long does it take to get a corrected license if there's an error on the back?
Processing times vary by state, but most corrected licenses are issued within two to four weeks. If you need the correction urgently, ask your DMV whether they can issue a temporary document or temporary license while your corrected license is being printed.