Code B is a restriction that limits you to driving automatic transmission vehicles only

If your driver license has a Code B restriction, you are legally permitted to drive only vehicles with automatic transmissions. You cannot drive a manual (stick shift) vehicle, even if you know how. The restriction appears on your license as a printed code and is enforced the same way any other license condition is — if you are stopped and found driving a manual vehicle, you can be cited for driving outside the scope of your license.

Code B exists because you passed your driving test in an automatic vehicle. Most U.S. states issue this restriction automatically when a test-taker demonstrates competence in an automatic but has not been tested in a manual. It is not a mark against your driving ability — it straightforward reflects what you were tested on.

Key Takeaways

  • Code B appears on your license if you took your driving test in an automatic transmission vehicle and were not tested in a manual.
  • The restriction means you can only legally drive automatic vehicles; driving a manual vehicle with Code B on your license is a violation.
  • You can remove Code B by taking a new driving test in a manual transmission vehicle and passing it.
  • Code B does not affect insurance rates, vehicle registration, or your ability to rent or purchase a vehicle — only what you can legally drive.
  • Some states use different codes or names for the same restriction; check your state's driver license guide to confirm the exact meaning on your license.

How Code B gets on your license

When you take your written and driving tests for a learner's permit or full license, the testing facility notes what type of transmission the test vehicle has. If you pass the test in an automatic vehicle, most states automatically add Code B to your license. You do not request it — it is the default outcome when the test car is automatic.

This happens in nearly all U.S. states, though a few use different codes or label it differently. The European Union and many other countries have a similar system, which is why Code B is familiar to people who learned to drive abroad.

Code B does not expire and does not go away on its own. It remains on your license for as long as you hold that license, unless you take action to remove it.

How to remove Code B from your license

To remove Code B, you must take a new driving test in a manual transmission vehicle and pass it. You do not need to retake the written test — only the road test. Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent agency to schedule a manual transmission driving test.

When you schedule, tell the testing facility that you want to be tested in a manual vehicle. Some DMVs have manual vehicles available for testing; others require you to bring your own. Ask when you call. If you need to bring your own vehicle, it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition.

Once you pass the manual transmission test, the DMV will issue a new license without Code B. The process usually takes a few weeks from test date to receiving your new card in the mail. Your old license remains valid until the new one arrives.

Code B and vehicle rental or purchase

Code B does not prevent you from renting or buying a vehicle with an automatic transmission. You can rent or own any automatic vehicle without restriction. If you want to rent or own a manual vehicle, you will need to remove Code B first — rental companies and private sellers will not knowingly rent or sell you a manual vehicle if your license shows the restriction.

In practice, manual transmissions are rare in the United States, so Code B affects very few people's day-to-day driving. If you never plan to drive a manual vehicle, removing the restriction is not necessary.

Code B and insurance

Code B does not affect your insurance rates, coverage options, or your ability to get insured. Insurance companies do not charge more or less based on transmission type restrictions. Your license restriction is a legal matter between you and the DMV, not an insurance matter.

If you are in an accident while driving a manual vehicle with Code B on your license, your insurance will cover the accident itself, but you may face separate legal consequences for driving outside the scope of your license. The violation is separate from the insurance claim.

Differences between Code B and other license restrictions

Code B is one of many codes that can appear on a U.S. driver license. Other common codes include restrictions on corrective lenses (you must wear glasses or contacts), restrictions on driving at night, restrictions on highway driving, or restrictions on towing. Each code limits your driving in a specific way.

Unlike some restrictions that expire after a set time or after you meet a condition (like a probationary period), Code B remains until you actively remove it by passing a manual transmission test. It is a permanent restriction unless you take the step to change it.

What to do if you are unsure whether you have Code B

Check the back of your physical driver license card. Restriction codes are printed there, usually in a section labeled "Restrictions," "Conditions," or "Codes." If you see "B" listed, you have the restriction. If you cannot find it or are unsure how to read your license, contact your state's DMV — they can confirm what codes are on your record.

You can also check online through your state's DMV website. Most states allow you to view your license record if you log in with your driver license number and date of birth. This is faster than calling and gives you a record you can save.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive a manual vehicle if I have Code B?

No. Driving a manual vehicle with Code B on your license is a violation and can result in a citation. You must remove the restriction first by passing a manual transmission driving test.

Do I need to remove Code B if I only drive automatic vehicles?

No. If you never plan to drive a manual vehicle, you do not need to remove it. Code B only restricts manual vehicles, so it will not affect your daily driving if you stick to automatics.

How much does it cost to take a manual transmission driving test?

The cost varies by state. Most states charge between $10 and $50 for a driving test retest. Contact your state's DMV for the exact fee and whether you can pay online or must pay in person.

Will removing Code B require me to renew my entire license?

No. Once you pass the manual transmission test, the DMV issues a new license card with the restriction removed. You do not need to renew your license or pay a renewal fee — you only pay for the driving test itself.

What if I fail the manual transmission driving test?

You can retake the test. Most states allow you to schedule another test when ready or within a few days. You will pay the test fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it.