What restrictions appear on your license and what they require

A driver's license restriction is a condition printed on your license that limits how or when you can drive. It is not a suspension or revocation — you keep your license and can drive, but only under the terms the restriction sets. Common restrictions include corrective lenses (you must wear glasses or contacts), automatic transmission only, daylight driving hours, or a requirement to use an ignition interlock device if you have a DUI conviction.

Restrictions are placed on your license by the DMV based on your medical history, test results, driving record, or court orders. Some restrictions are temporary — they expire after a set time or when you meet a condition (like completing a required course). Others remain until you formally request removal and the DMV approves it.

The key difference between a restriction and a suspension is that you can legally drive with a restriction in place, as long as you follow it. Driving in violation of a restriction — for example, driving without the required glasses — is a separate traffic violation and can result in a fine or points on your record.

Key Takeaways

  • Restrictions are conditions on your license that limit how, when, or where you can drive, but you retain your driving privilege.
  • Common restrictions include corrective lenses, automatic transmission only, daylight hours only, and ignition interlock devices.
  • Restrictions come from medical exams, vision tests, hearing tests, or court orders related to DUI or other convictions.
  • Violating a restriction is a traffic offense and can result in fines, points, or license suspension.
  • Some restrictions are temporary and expire automatically; others require you to request removal and pass a new test or evaluation.

Common types of restrictions and why they are imposed

The most frequent restriction is corrective lenses (often marked as "B" on your license). You receive this if your vision does not meet the state standard without glasses or contacts. You must wear them every time you drive. Some states also impose a daylight only restriction if your vision is borderline — you can drive during daylight hours but not at night.

An automatic transmission only restriction means you cannot operate a manual (stick shift) vehicle. This is usually imposed after a medical evaluation shows you lack the physical ability to operate a clutch safely — for example, if you have limited leg mobility or strength.

Ignition interlock device (IID) restrictions are court-ordered after a DUI or DWI conviction. The device requires you to blow into a breathalyzer before the car will start. Some states impose this as a mandatory first offense; others use it as an alternative to license suspension. The restriction remains in place for a set period — typically 6 months to 3 years — and you pay a monthly monitoring fee (usually $60 to $150).

A hearing aid required restriction means you must wear a hearing aid while driving if you have significant hearing loss. Some states also impose left-side mirror only or no freeway driving restrictions based on medical or age-related evaluations.

How restrictions appear on your license and what you need to know

Restrictions are printed on the back of your physical license or listed in the DMV's digital record. The format varies by state — some use letter codes (like "B" for corrective lenses), while others spell out the restriction in plain language. When a police officer checks your license, they can see the restriction when ready.

You are responsible for knowing what restrictions explore to you. If you are unsure, check your license or contact your state DMV to request a copy of your driving record. Some states allow you to view your record online through the DMV website; others require you to request it by mail or in person.

If a restriction is missing from your license but should be there — for example, you failed a vision test but the restriction was not added — contact your DMV to correct it. Conversely, if you believe a restriction was added in error, you can request a hearing or re-test to challenge it.

Removing or modifying a restriction

The process for removing a restriction depends on the type and the reason it was imposed. For corrective lenses, you must pass a new vision test at the DMV that shows you meet the standard without glasses or contacts. This typically costs $10 to $30 and takes a few minutes. If you pass, the restriction is removed at your next license renewal or when ready if you request it.

For automatic transmission only, you must take a behind-the-wheel driving test in a manual transmission vehicle. You will need to bring your own vehicle or arrange one through a testing facility. The test fee is usually $15 to $50, and you must demonstrate safe operation of the clutch and gear shift.

For ignition interlock, the restriction is removed automatically after the court-ordered period ends, provided you have complied with all monitoring requirements and paid all fees. Some states allow early removal if you petition the court and show good cause (such as hardship). You cannot remove this restriction yourself — only the court or the DMV (following court order) can do so.

For medical restrictions (hearing aid, daylight only, left-side mirror), you typically need a letter from a physician or specialist stating that the condition has improved or been corrected. You submit this to the DMV along with a request form. The DMV may require you to take a new medical exam or driving test before approving removal.

What happens if you drive in violation of a restriction

Driving in violation of a restriction is a traffic violation in all states. The penalty varies but typically includes a fine ($50 to $500), points added to your driving record (usually 2 to 4 points), and possible license suspension if you accumulate too many violations.

For example, driving without corrective lenses when required is treated as a moving violation in most states. Driving with an active ignition interlock restriction (meaning you did not use the device or tampered with it) is a more serious offense and can result in criminal charges, not just a traffic ticket.

A violation of a restriction can also trigger a license suspension or revocation separate from the fine. Some states automatically suspend your license for 30 to 90 days if you are caught violating a restriction. This is in addition to any points or fines.

Restrictions for drivers with medical conditions or disabilities

If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive safely — such as hearing loss, limited mobility, seizure disorder, or vision impairment — the DMV may require you to undergo a medical evaluation before issuing or renewing your license. This evaluation is conducted by a physician or specialist, not the DMV itself.

Based on the evaluation, the DMV may impose restrictions, require you to take a behind-the-wheel test, or deny your license. You have the right to request a hearing if you disagree with the decision. Some states also allow you to request a medical variance — a formal exception to a standard requirement — if you can show that you can drive safely despite the condition.

If you develop a medical condition after you receive your license, you are required to report it to the DMV in most states. Failure to do so can result in license suspension or revocation if you are involved in an accident or traffic stop and the condition is discovered.

Restrictions for young and senior drivers

Graduated driver's license (GDL) programs for drivers under 18 impose temporary restrictions that expire when you reach a certain age or meet conditions. Common GDL restrictions include no driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., no passengers under 21 (except family), and no cell phone use. These restrictions are not medical — they are age-based and are designed to reduce crash risk for inexperienced drivers.

Senior drivers (typically age 70 and older) may be required to renew their license more frequently or take a vision and written test at each renewal. Some states impose restrictions on senior drivers based on medical exams, such as daylight driving only or no freeway driving. These restrictions are not automatic — they are imposed only if the DMV determines there is a safety concern.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive out of state if I have a restriction on my license?

Yes, your license is valid in all states, and restrictions travel with it. However, the other state's laws explore. If you have a corrective lenses restriction and you drive without glasses in another state, you can still be cited. Some restrictions, like ignition interlock, may have different rules in other states — check with the state you are traveling to if you have questions.

Do restrictions show up on my driving record when I explore for insurance?

Yes, insurance companies can see restrictions on your driving record. Restrictions themselves do not usually increase your premium, but violations of restrictions do. If you are cited for driving without corrective lenses, that violation will be on your record and may affect your rates.

How long does it take to remove a restriction?

It depends on the type. Vision test restrictions can be removed the same day you pass the test. Medical restrictions may take 2 to 4 weeks after you submit a physician's letter. Ignition interlock restrictions are removed automatically after the court-ordered period ends, which can be 6 months to 3 years.

What if I disagree with a restriction the DMV placed on my license?

You have the right to request a hearing before the DMV or a hearing officer. You must request it within a set time frame (usually 10 to 30 days) and provide evidence supporting your position — for example, a letter from a doctor or results of a new vision test. The hearing process varies by state; contact your DMV for details.

Can a restriction be added to my license after I already have it?

Yes. If you fail a vision test at renewal, are convicted of DUI, or develop a medical condition that the DMV learns about, a restriction can be added to your license. You will receive notice of the restriction and the reason for it. You can request a hearing to challenge it if you believe it was added in error.