What "Rest Ab" Means on Your Driver's License

Rest Ab is a medical restriction code, not a license type

Rest Ab on your driver's license means you must wear corrective lenses (glasses or contact lenses) every time you drive. The code stands for "Restriction: Corrective Lenses Required." It appears in the restrictions section of your license, usually near the bottom or on the back, and does not change your license class or driving privileges — it only specifies that you cannot legally drive without correction.

This restriction is issued when your vision test at the DMV shows you need correction to meet the minimum vision standard for driving. Most states require 20/40 vision or better (with correction if needed) to hold any driver's license. If you pass the vision test only while wearing glasses or contacts, the DMV will add this restriction to your license.

The restriction applies every time you get behind the wheel, whether you are driving locally or across state lines. Driving without the required correction when this restriction is on your license is a violation and can result in a traffic citation, even if your uncorrected vision would technically allow you to see the road.

Key Takeaways

Rest Ab means you must wear glasses or contact lenses whenever you drive, and this requirement is legally binding.
The restriction appears on your license document itself and is added based on your vision test results at the DMV.
You can remove this restriction by passing a vision test without correction, or by passing with a different form of correction that the DMV accepts.
Driving without the required correction when Rest Ab is on your license is a traffic violation in all states.
Rest Ab does not affect your ability to renew your license or change your address — it only governs how you must correct your vision while driving.

How the restriction gets added to your license

When you take your vision test at the DMV, the examiner tests your vision both with and without correction. If you fail the uncorrected test but pass when wearing glasses or contacts, the examiner will note this and add the Rest Ab restriction to your license. You will see this code printed on your physical license card.

The restriction is added automatically — you do not have to request it or sign a separate form. It becomes part of your license record the moment the DMV issues your license. If you renew your license and take another vision test, the restriction will remain unless you pass the vision test without correction.

What happens if you drive without the required correction

Driving without glasses or contacts when Rest Ab is on your license is a moving violation. A police officer who stops you can cite you for violating the restriction, even if you were not involved in an accident and your driving was otherwise safe. The citation goes on your driving record and can result in fines, points on your license, or both, depending on your state.

In some states, this violation can also be used against you in an accident claim. If you are in a crash and the other party's insurance discovers you were driving without required correction, they may deny your claim or use the violation to argue you were negligent. Insurance companies also review your driving record when setting rates, so this violation can increase your premiums.

How to remove Rest Ab from your license

To remove this restriction, you must pass a vision test without the correction that triggered the restriction in the first place. If you originally failed without glasses but passed with them, you would need to pass the uncorrected test. This usually means visiting your DMV, requesting a vision retest, and paying a retest fee (which varies by state, typically between $10 and $30).

Some states allow you to request a retest at your next renewal without paying an extra fee. Check your state DMV's website or call your local office to learn whether you can bundle a vision retest with your renewal or whether you need to schedule a separate appointment. Bring your current license and be prepared to show that your vision has improved — for example, if you had LASIK or PRK surgery, bring documentation from your eye doctor.

If you have had corrective eye surgery, you may be able to remove the restriction sooner than your renewal date. Some states allow you to submit a letter from your ophthalmologist or optometrist confirming that your corrected vision now meets the standard, and the DMV will update your license without requiring an in-person retest. Ask your eye doctor whether they can provide this documentation.

Rest Ab versus other vision-related restrictions

Rest Ab is the most common vision restriction, but some states use different codes for similar requirements. Some DMVs use "Corrective Lenses" or "Vision Correction Required" instead of Rest Ab. A few states add a separate code if you must wear only certain types of correction — for example, some older licenses specified "Corrective Lenses: Daylight Only" if the examiner believed your vision was too poor for night driving.

Other restrictions you might see on a license include "Outside Mirrors" (if your vehicle must have special mirrors), "Automatic Transmission Only" (if you cannot operate a manual transmission), or "Hearing Aid Required" (if you use a hearing aid). Rest Ab is purely about vision correction and does not restrict what type of vehicle you can drive or when you can drive.

What to do if you think Rest Ab was added by mistake

If you believe the restriction was added in error — for example, if you passed the vision test without correction — contact your DMV when ready. Request a copy of your vision test results from the date your license was issued. The DMV keeps records of every vision test, including the date, the examiner's name, and whether you passed with or without correction.

If the records show you passed without correction, the DMV made an error and should remove the restriction at no cost. You may need to visit in person or submit a written request with your license number and the date of the test. Some states allow you to dispute the restriction online through their DMV portal; check your state's website for the procedure.

Rest Ab and license renewal

When you renew your driver's license, you will take another vision test. If you still need correction to pass, the Rest Ab restriction will remain on your new license. If you have had corrective surgery or your vision has improved, you can request a retest at the time of renewal, and the restriction will be removed if you pass without correction.

Some states require you to take a vision test every time you renew; others only require it every few renewals. Check your state's renewal rules to know whether you will be tested at your next renewal. If you know your vision has improved, you can contact the DMV before your renewal date and ask whether you can take an early retest to remove the restriction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with contacts instead of glasses if Rest Ab is on my license?

Yes. Rest Ab means you must wear corrective lenses — either glasses or contacts. The restriction does not specify which type. As long as you are wearing some form of vision correction, you are complying with the restriction. Make sure your contacts prescription is current and that you can see clearly before driving.

Will Rest Ab show up on a background check or insurance form?

Rest Ab appears on your driving record and your physical license, so insurance companies and employers who request your driving record will see it. It is not a criminal matter and does not affect employment background checks, but it may be noted by your insurance company when they review your license.

What if I lost my glasses and need to drive?

You should not drive without the required correction. If you have lost your glasses, contact your eye doctor for an emergency replacement or temporary pair. If you wear contacts, keep a backup pair or glasses in your vehicle. Driving without correction when the restriction is on your license is a violation, even in an emergency.

Do I have to tell my insurance company about Rest Ab?

You do not need to report it separately — your insurance company will see it when they pull your driving record. However, if they ask about restrictions on your license during the process process, you should disclose it. Failing to disclose a known restriction could affect your coverage if you are in an accident.

Can I get a commercial driver's license if I have Rest Ab?

You can hold a commercial driver's license with a vision correction restriction, but you must meet the vision standard for commercial driving, which is often stricter than for regular licenses. You will need to pass a vision test for the commercial license, and if you need correction, the restriction will appear on that license as well.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.