Class F is a restricted license for people who cannot meet standard vision or medical requirements

A Class F driver's license is issued by some states to people who have vision or medical conditions that prevent them from holding a regular unrestricted license. The restrictions vary by state, but a Class F typically limits where, when, or under what conditions you can drive — for example, daytime only, within a certain distance from home, or with corrective lenses you must wear at all times.

Not all states use the Class F designation. Some call it a restricted license, conditional license, or limited license. The key point is that it allows you to drive legally despite a condition that would normally disqualify you, but with specific rules you must follow every time you drive.

Class F licenses are most common for people with vision problems that are correctable (like needing very strong glasses) or for people with medical conditions that are stable and manageable but still affect driving safety. You do not lose your right to drive — you get a license that reflects your actual abilities.

Key Takeaways

  • A Class F license is a restricted license issued when you have a vision or medical condition that prevents you from meeting standard requirements for an unrestricted license.
  • Restrictions on a Class F license are printed on the license itself and might include daytime driving only, distance limits, or a requirement to wear corrective lenses.
  • You must follow every restriction on your Class F license — driving outside those restrictions can result in a ticket, license suspension, or both.
  • The process to get a Class F license usually involves a medical exam or vision test, a statement from your doctor, and approval from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles.
  • If your condition improves or changes, you can request a re-examination to see if you may have access to for an unrestricted license.

Common reasons you might be issued a Class F license

Vision problems are the most common reason. If your corrected vision (with glasses or contacts) falls below the standard required for an unrestricted license but is still safe enough to drive under certain conditions, your state may issue a Class F with a restriction like "corrective lenses required" or "daylight driving only."

Medical conditions that affect driving ability can also result in a Class F. These include conditions that cause dizziness, seizures that are controlled by medication, hearing loss, or mobility issues. The condition does not have to be permanent — it just has to be stable enough that you can drive safely under the restrictions your state sets.

Some states issue a Class F for people who have had their license suspended or revoked but have completed a rehabilitation program or met other requirements to regain limited driving privileges. In these cases, the Class F is temporary and may be upgraded to an unrestricted license after a set period.

What restrictions typically appear on a Class F license

Restrictions are printed as codes or notes on the back or front of your license. Common ones include:

  • Corrective lenses required: You must wear glasses or contacts every time you drive. Driving without them is a violation.
  • Daylight driving only: You cannot drive between sunset and sunrise.
  • Distance limit: You can only drive within a certain radius of your home, usually 5 to 15 miles.
  • No freeway driving: You are limited to local roads and cannot use interstate highways.
  • Hand controls required: Your vehicle must be equipped with hand controls if you have a mobility limitation.
  • Automatic transmission only: You cannot drive a manual transmission vehicle.

Your specific restrictions depend on your condition and your state's rules. When you receive your Class F license, the DMV will give you a document explaining what each code means and what you must do to comply.

How to request a Class F license

The process starts with your doctor. You will need a medical examination or vision test performed by a licensed healthcare provider. Your doctor will complete a form provided by your state's DMV — this form documents your condition, whether it is stable, and what restrictions would make driving safe for you.

Take that completed form to your local DMV office along with your current license, proof of residency, and any other documents your state requires. You may also need to pass a written test or a behind-the-wheel driving test to show you can drive safely under the proposed restrictions.

Processing time varies by state, but most DMVs will make a decision within two to four weeks. Some states require a medical review board to approve the restrictions before the license is issued. If your request is denied, you have the right to request a hearing or a second opinion.

What happens if you violate a Class F restriction

Driving outside your restrictions — for example, driving at night when your license says daylight only, or driving without required corrective lenses — is a traffic violation. You can be ticketed and fined just as you would for any other traffic offense.

A violation can also trigger a license suspension or revocation. If you are caught driving with a restriction violation, the DMV may suspend your Class F license when ready, which means you lose all driving privileges until the suspension is lifted. This is separate from any fine or court penalty.

Insurance complications can follow too. If you are in an accident while violating a restriction, your insurance company may deny your claim, leaving you liable for all damages. Always follow your restrictions exactly as printed on your license.

Renewing or upgrading a Class F license

A Class F license is renewed the same way as a regular license — by mail, online, or in person, depending on your state. You will need to provide proof of your current medical status. Some states require a new medical exam or doctor's statement at each renewal; others only require one if your condition has changed.

If your condition improves or is resolved, you can request a re-examination to see if you now meet the standards for an unrestricted license. This requires a new medical exam and a request to the DMV. If approved, you will be issued a regular license without restrictions.

If your condition worsens, your state may issue a more restrictive Class F — for example, changing from "daylight driving only" to "no driving." You have the right to request a hearing before a more restrictive license is issued.

Class F license and insurance

You must tell your insurance company that you have a Class F license. Some insurers charge slightly higher premiums for restricted licenses because the underlying condition creates a higher risk profile. Others do not charge more as long as you follow your restrictions.

If you do not disclose your Class F status to your insurer, your policy may be voided if you are in an accident. The insurer can argue that you misrepresented your driving status, which gives them grounds to deny your claim. Always be honest about your license type when you get a quote or renew your policy.

If you are denied coverage or quoted a very high rate because of your Class F license, shop around. Some insurers specialize in high-risk drivers and may offer better rates. You can also ask your state's insurance commissioner's office for a list of insurers that write policies for restricted licenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive someone else's car with a Class F license?

Yes, as long as the car meets your restrictions. If your Class F requires corrective lenses, you must wear them. If it requires an automatic transmission, you cannot drive a manual car. If it limits you to daytime driving, you cannot drive at night. The restrictions follow you, not the vehicle.

What if I need to drive outside my restrictions for an emergency?

Driving outside your restrictions is still a violation, even in an emergency. If you are in a true emergency — a medical crisis, a fire, a serious accident — call 911 instead of driving yourself. If you must drive, document the emergency in writing and contact the DMV afterward to explain. You may still receive a ticket, but the documentation can help if you contest it in court.

Does a Class F license show up on a background check?

A Class F license itself does not appear on a criminal background check. However, if you were issued a Class F because of a suspended or revoked license, that suspension or revocation may show up depending on the type of background check and what the employer or organization is looking for. Always disclose your license status honestly when asked.

Can I get a Class F license if I have been denied a regular license?

Possibly. A Class F is designed for people who do not meet the full standards for an unrestricted license but can still drive safely under restrictions. If you were denied a regular license, ask the DMV whether you can request a medical review for a Class F. The decision depends on your specific condition and your state's rules.

How long does a Class F license last?

Class F licenses are renewed on the same schedule as regular licenses in your state — typically every four to eight years. Some states require more frequent renewals for restricted licenses. Check your license or your state's DMV website to see your renewal date.