What Restriction Codes Are and Why They Appear on Your License

A restriction code is a letter or number printed on your driver's license that tells law enforcement and other officials what you are not allowed to do while driving. It is not a punishment — it is a condition that lets you hold a license when you otherwise might not be able to. Common reasons for restrictions include vision problems that require corrective lenses, a medical condition that needs monitoring, or a conviction that limits where or when you can drive.

Restriction codes appear in a specific section of your license, usually labeled "Restrictions" or "Conditions." Each state uses its own code system, so a code that means one thing in California might mean something different in Texas. The code itself is just shorthand; the actual rule is printed on the back of your license or in your state's driver handbook.

You must follow every restriction on your license. Driving without following a restriction — for example, driving without the corrective lenses your license requires — is a violation and can result in a ticket, points on your record, or license suspension.

Key Takeaways

  • Restriction codes are letters or numbers that specify what you cannot do while driving, and they appear in a dedicated section of your physical license.
  • Each state has its own code system, so you must check your state's handbook or the back of your license to understand what your specific codes mean.
  • Common restrictions include corrective lenses, automatic transmission only, daylight driving only, and no highway driving.
  • Violating a restriction on your license counts as a traffic violation and can lead to fines, points, or suspension.
  • Some restrictions are temporary and expire on a set date; others remain until you pass a new test or medical exam.

The Most Common Restriction Codes and What They Mean

The restrictions you see most often across all states relate to vision and vehicle type. A corrective lenses restriction (often coded as "B" or "C") means you must wear glasses or contact lenses every time you drive. This is the single most common restriction. If you fail a vision test at the DMV but can pass it with corrective lenses, you will receive this code.

An automatic transmission only restriction (often coded as "A" or "AT") means you can only drive vehicles with automatic transmissions, not manual (stick shift) vehicles. You receive this restriction if you took your driving test in an automatic vehicle or if you have a physical condition that makes operating a manual transmission unsafe.

A daylight driving only restriction (often coded as "D") limits you to driving during daylight hours — typically sunrise to sunset. This restriction is common for older drivers or those with vision conditions that worsen in low light. Some states specify exact times, such as 5 a.m. to 8 p.m.

A no highway driving restriction (often coded as "N") means you cannot drive on interstate highways or limited-access roads. You may be restricted to local roads and state highways only. This restriction sometimes appears for drivers with certain medical conditions or after specific traffic violations.

Medical and Age-Related Restrictions

If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive safely, your state's DMV may issue a medical restriction. These restrictions vary widely depending on the condition and the state. For example, some states restrict drivers with seizure disorders to daylight driving only, or require them to carry a medical alert card while driving.

Older drivers sometimes receive restrictions after failing a vision or cognitive screening. A state may issue a restriction requiring you to renew your license more frequently — every two years instead of five, for instance — so your condition can be monitored. Some states also restrict drivers over a certain age to daylight driving or local roads only.

If you believe a medical restriction is unfair or no longer necessary, you can request a medical review or retest through your state's DMV. The process varies by state, but typically involves a doctor's statement or a new medical exam.

Restrictions Related to Convictions and Violations

Certain traffic convictions result in restrictions rather than outright suspension. For example, a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI) may result in a restriction requiring an ignition interlock device — a breathalyzer installed in your vehicle that prevents the engine from starting if alcohol is detected on your breath.

Some states also issue restrictions that limit you to driving only to and from work, school, or medical appointments after certain violations. These are sometimes called "work-only" or "essential purpose" restrictions. The restriction remains in place for a set period, after which you can petition to have it removed.

If you are unsure whether a restriction on your license is related to a conviction, check the paperwork you received from the court or DMV when the restriction was issued. That document will explain the reason and the duration.

How Restrictions Appear on Your Physical License

On your actual driver's license card, restrictions are printed in a specific location — usually on the back or in a dedicated field on the front. The format depends on your state. Some states print the full restriction code and a brief description; others print only the code and require you to look up the meaning in your state's handbook.

Your state's DMV handbook — available online and at any DMV office — contains a complete list of all restriction codes used in your state and what each one means. If you receive a license with a code you do not recognize, that handbook is the fastest way to find out what it means and what you must do to follow it.

If you lose your license or it is damaged and you cannot read the restrictions, you can request a replacement at your DMV. You can also call your state's DMV customer service line and provide your license number; they can tell you what restrictions are on your record.

Temporary Restrictions vs. Permanent Restrictions

Some restrictions are temporary and expire on a specific date printed on your license. For example, a restriction issued because you failed a vision test might expire once you turn 18 and can retake the test, or it might expire after one year if you pass a medical exam. When a temporary restriction expires, it is automatically removed from your record — you do not need to do anything.

Other restrictions are permanent or remain until you meet a specific condition. For example, a corrective lenses restriction stays on your license for life unless you have vision correction surgery and pass a new vision test at the DMV. An ignition interlock restriction remains until the court or DMV officially removes it, which usually happens after you complete a DUI program or serve a waiting period.

Check your license to see if an expiration date is listed next to your restriction. If you are unsure whether a restriction is temporary or permanent, contact your state's DMV directly.

What Happens If You Violate a Restriction

Driving in violation of a restriction on your license is a traffic violation. The consequences depend on the restriction and your state's laws, but typically include a fine, points added to your driving record, and possible license suspension.

For example, if your license requires corrective lenses and you are caught driving without them, you may receive a ticket for "driving with a suspended or restricted license" or a similar charge. If your license restricts you to daylight driving and you are stopped at night, you face the same type of violation. These violations can result in fines ranging from $100 to $500 or more, depending on your state and whether you have prior violations.

If you accumulate too many points from restriction violations, your license may be suspended entirely. It is important to take restrictions seriously and follow them every time you drive.

How to Remove or Modify a Restriction

The process for removing a restriction depends on the reason it was issued. If the restriction is temporary and has an expiration date, it will be removed automatically. If it is permanent or has no expiration date, you will need to take action.

For vision-related restrictions, you can schedule a vision test at your state's DMV. If you pass, the restriction can be removed. For medical restrictions, you may need a doctor's statement confirming that your condition no longer affects your driving ability, or you may need to pass a medical exam administered by the DMV. For restrictions related to convictions, you will need to complete the required program (such as a DUI education course) or wait out the restriction period, then petition the court or DMV to have it removed.

Contact your state's DMV to find out the exact process for your specific restriction. They can tell you what documents or tests you need and how to schedule an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with a restriction code on my license?

Yes, you can drive with a restriction code — that is the whole point of the code. It allows you to hold a license while following specific conditions. You must follow every restriction listed on your license every time you drive. Violating a restriction is a traffic violation.

What does it mean if my license has multiple restriction codes?

It means you have multiple conditions that affect your driving. For example, you might have a corrective lenses restriction and a daylight driving only restriction. You must follow all of them. Check your license and your state's handbook to understand what each code means.

Can a restriction be removed before its expiration date?

It depends on the reason for the restriction. Some restrictions can be removed early if you pass a test or provide medical documentation. Others must remain until the expiration date or until you complete a required program. Contact your state's DMV to ask about early removal for your specific restriction.

Will a restriction show up on my driving record when I explore for insurance?

Restrictions themselves do not typically appear on your driving record in a way that affects insurance rates. However, the reason for the restriction — such as a DUI conviction — will show up and may increase your insurance costs. Be honest with your insurance company about any restrictions on your license.

What if I do not understand the restriction code on my license?

Look up the code in your state's driver handbook, which is available online and at any DMV office. The handbook contains a complete list of all restriction codes and their meanings. You can also call your state's DMV customer service line and ask them to explain the code.