Restriction B is a limit on the type of vehicle you can legally drive
Restriction B means your license permits you to drive only vehicles with an automatic transmission. If your license carries this restriction, you cannot legally operate a manual (stick shift) transmission vehicle, even if you know how to drive one. The restriction appears on your physical license card and in your state's driving record system.
Most states impose Restriction B when a driver passes their road test in an automatic vehicle. The logic is straightforward: if you were never tested on manual transmission skills, the state has no record that you can safely operate one. Some states call this "Automatic Transmission Only" instead of Restriction B, but the effect is identical.
Restriction B is one of the least restrictive license conditions. It does not affect your insurance rates, your ability to rent most vehicles, or your legal standing. It straightforward narrows which cars you are permitted to drive.
Key Takeaways
- Restriction B limits you to automatic transmission vehicles only and appears on your physical license card.
- The restriction is usually placed when you pass your road test in an automatic car, since the state has no record of manual transmission competency.
- You can remove Restriction B by passing a road test in a manual transmission vehicle in most states.
- Restriction B does not affect insurance rates or your legal driving status — it only limits which vehicles you can operate.
- If you rent a car, you must rent an automatic; renting a manual while under Restriction B is illegal and could result in a citation.
How Restriction B gets placed on your license
When you take your road test, you choose the type of vehicle you will use. If you take the test in an automatic transmission car, most states automatically add Restriction B to your license. You do not have to request it — the examiner notes the vehicle type, and the restriction is added during the licensing process.
Some states place the restriction only if you specifically request it or if the testing facility has only automatic vehicles available. A few states do not use Restriction B at all and instead require all drivers to be tested on both transmission types or to pass a separate manual transmission test. Check your state's DMV website to confirm whether Restriction B is used in your state and under what circumstances it is applied.
If you took your test in a manual vehicle, your license should not carry Restriction B. If it does, contact your state DMV to request a correction — this is usually a clerical error that can be fixed with a phone call or online form.
Removing Restriction B from your license
To remove Restriction B, you must pass a road test in a manual transmission vehicle. The process varies slightly by state, but the basic steps are the same: schedule a road test appointment, bring a manual car to the test, pass the exam, and the restriction is removed from your record.
You do not need to retake the written test or pay a full licensing fee. Most states charge a reduced fee for a restriction removal test — typically $10 to $30 — and the appointment is usually shorter than a full road test. Some states allow you to remove the restriction by passing a skills test at a DMV office without a full road test, though this varies.
Contact your state DMV directly to learn the exact process, required documents, and fees. Many states now allow you to schedule the test online through their website. You will need to provide your own manual transmission vehicle or arrange to borrow one, since most testing facilities do not supply them.
What you cannot do while under Restriction B
You cannot legally drive a manual transmission vehicle. This includes personal cars, rental vehicles, commercial trucks, or any other vehicle with a stick shift. Driving a manual vehicle while under Restriction B is a traffic violation and can result in a citation, fine, or points on your driving record.
If you rent a car, you must rent an automatic. Rental companies are aware of license restrictions and will not rent you a manual vehicle if your license shows Restriction B. If you attempt to rent a manual anyway and are caught driving it, you face the same violation as driving your own manual car.
Restriction B does not prevent you from driving in other states or from obtaining an out-of-state license. However, if you move to another state, that state may recognize your Restriction B or may have its own rules about manual transmission driving. Check with your new state's DMV if you relocate.
Restriction B and insurance
Restriction B does not affect your car insurance rates or coverage. Insurance companies do not charge more or less based on transmission type restrictions. Your policy remains the same whether you drive an automatic or are restricted to automatics.
If you cause an accident while driving a manual vehicle in violation of Restriction B, your insurance may deny the claim on the grounds that you were driving illegally. This is rare but possible. The violation itself — not the restriction — is what creates the insurance problem.
Restriction B versus other license restrictions
Restriction B is one of many possible license restrictions. Other common ones include corrective lenses (must wear glasses or contacts), daylight driving only, no highway driving, or ignition interlock device required. Unlike restrictions for safety equipment or behavioral conditions, Restriction B is purely about vehicle capability.
Restriction B is also removable, which distinguishes it from some other restrictions. A restriction for corrective lenses stays on your license as long as you need glasses. Restriction B can be removed by passing a test, making it temporary in nature.
If you want to drive manual but have Restriction B
Your only legal option is to pass a road test in a manual vehicle. There is no waiver, exemption, or alternative. Once you pass the test, the restriction is removed and you can drive any transmission type.
If you are nervous about manual transmission driving, consider taking lessons before your test. Many driving schools offer manual transmission instruction specifically for drivers who need to remove Restriction B. A few practice sessions can build confidence and improve your chances of passing the test on the first attempt.
If you have no intention of driving manual vehicles, Restriction B has no practical impact on your life. You can drive automatics legally and indefinitely without removing it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Restriction B show up when a police officer checks my license?
Yes. When an officer runs your license, the restriction appears in their system. However, they will only cite you if you are actually driving a manual vehicle. straightforward having the restriction does not result in a ticket.
Can I remove Restriction B online or by mail?
No. You must pass a road test in person with a manual transmission vehicle. Some states allow you to schedule the test online, but the test itself must be taken at a DMV office with an examiner present.
What if I borrowed a manual car to take my original road test but now have Restriction B?
If you took your test in a manual vehicle, your license should not have Restriction B. Contact your state DMV with proof of your test (your road test receipt or record) and request a correction. This is usually resolved quickly.
Do I need Restriction B removed to get a commercial driver's license?
Requirements vary by state. Some states require a clean license without restrictions, while others allow Restriction B on a commercial license. Check with your state's DMV before pursuing a commercial license if you have Restriction B.
If I move to another state, will Restriction B transfer to my new license?
It depends on the state. Some states recognize restrictions from other states, while others do not. When you get your new state's license, ask the DMV whether your Restriction B will carry over or whether you need to take a new road test.