What a Restricted License Is and Who Gets One
A restricted driver's license is a license that allows you to drive, but only under specific conditions set by your state's DMV. The restrictions appear on your license itself and limit when, where, or how you can drive. Common restrictions include driving only during daylight hours, driving only to work or school, requiring an ignition interlock device, or driving only with a licensed adult in the car.
You may receive a restricted license in several situations: as a teenager before you turn 18, after a DUI or DWI conviction, after losing your license and needing to rebuild driving privileges, or because a medical condition requires monitoring. Some states also issue restricted licenses to people who fail the vision test but can drive safely with corrective lenses, or to drivers with physical disabilities who use hand controls.
The specific restrictions and the process to obtain one vary significantly by state. A restriction that works in one state may not exist in another, and the rules for earning an unrestricted license differ too.
Key Takeaways
- Restricted licenses are issued by your state DMV and the restrictions are printed directly on your license card.
- Teen drivers, people with DUI convictions, and drivers with medical or physical conditions are the most common groups who receive restricted licenses.
- Each state defines its own restrictions and the conditions under which you can remove them.
- You cannot ignore a restriction on your license — driving outside the restriction is a separate violation and can result in fines, points, or license suspension.
Restricted Licenses for Teen Drivers
Most states issue a graduated driver's license (GDL) to teenagers, which is a form of restricted license. The GDL typically has two or three stages: a learner's permit stage (where you must have a licensed adult in the car), an intermediate or provisional stage (where you have restrictions on passengers, curfews, or phone use), and then a full unrestricted license.
The age at which you move through each stage depends on your state. Some states allow you to move to the next stage after holding your current license for a set number of months (often 6 to 12 months), while others require you to reach a certain age. A few states require you to pass a driver's education course or maintain a clean driving record to advance.
Common GDL restrictions include no driving between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., no passengers under 21 (except family members), no use of a cell phone while driving, and mandatory seatbelt use. Your state's DMV website lists the exact restrictions for your age and stage.
Restricted Licenses After a DUI or DWI Conviction
After a DUI or DWI conviction, your license is typically suspended for a set period. Many states offer a hardship license or work permit during the suspension period, which is a restricted license that allows you to drive to work, school, medical appointments, or court-ordered programs like alcohol education classes.
To request a hardship license, you must file a petition with the DMV or the court (depending on your state) and often must show proof of financial hardship or that you need to drive for essential purposes. Some states require you to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle before you can drive at all, even on a hardship license. An IID is a breathalyzer connected to your car's ignition that prevents the engine from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath.
The cost of an IID varies by state and provider, typically ranging from $60 to $150 per month for installation, calibration, and monitoring. You are responsible for paying this cost. The length of time you must use an IID depends on your conviction and your state's laws, but it often ranges from 6 months to several years.
Restricted Licenses for Medical or Physical Conditions
If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive safely — such as vision loss, hearing loss, or limited mobility — your state's DMV may issue a license with restrictions that allow you to drive under certain conditions. Common medical restrictions include corrective lenses required, hearing aid required, hand controls required, or left foot accelerator required.
To obtain a medically restricted license, you typically must pass a functional driving evaluation or provide a medical report from your doctor stating what restrictions are necessary. Some states require you to renew your license more frequently (every 2 or 3 years instead of 5 or 8) so the DMV can verify that your condition has not worsened.
If you use adaptive equipment like hand controls or a left foot accelerator, you must have that equipment installed in your vehicle before you drive. You are responsible for the cost of installation and maintenance.
How to Request or Challenge a Restriction
If you are issued a restricted license and believe the restriction is incorrect or no longer necessary, you can request a review. The process varies by state. For medical restrictions, you may need to provide updated medical documentation showing that your condition has improved. For teen restrictions, you typically must wait until you reach the age or time requirement set by your state's GDL law.
For DUI-related restrictions, you may be able to petition the court or DMV to remove the restriction early if you have maintained a clean driving record and completed all required programs. Some states allow you to request a hearing before a DMV officer or judge to challenge the restriction.
Contact your state's DMV directly to learn the specific process for your situation. Many states allow you to submit a request online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office.
What Happens If You Violate a Restriction
Driving outside the terms of your restriction is a separate traffic violation, even if you are driving safely and legally in all other ways. For example, if your license says you can only drive during daylight hours and you drive at night, you can be cited for violating the restriction.
Penalties for violating a restriction vary by state but typically include a fine (often $100 to $500), points added to your driving record, and possible license suspension. If you violate a restriction multiple times, your license may be suspended or revoked entirely. A violation may also extend the length of time you must keep the restriction in place.
If you are unsure what your restrictions are, check your license card or your state's DMV website. If a restriction makes it impossible for you to meet your daily needs, contact your DMV to discuss whether you can request a modification or removal.
Removing a Restriction From Your License
The process to remove a restriction depends on the type of restriction and your state's rules. For teen drivers, restrictions are typically removed automatically when you reach the required age or complete the required time period — you do not need to do anything. Your next license renewal will be issued without the restriction.
For medical restrictions, you may need to provide updated medical documentation and pass a vision or functional driving test. For DUI-related restrictions, you typically must complete the suspension period and any court-ordered programs, maintain a clean driving record, and sometimes pay a reinstatement fee before your license is fully restored.
Some states allow you to remove restrictions early by petitioning the court or DMV. Check your state's DMV website or contact your local DMV office to learn the exact timeline and requirements for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive outside my restriction if I have a good reason?
No. A restriction on your license is a legal requirement, not a guideline. Driving outside the restriction is a violation regardless of the reason. If you believe your restriction is too limiting, contact your DMV to request a modification or removal through the proper process.
Do I need to tell my insurance company about my restricted license?
Yes. You must disclose your restricted license to your insurance company when you purchase or renew your policy. Failing to disclose it may void your coverage if you are in an accident. Some insurers may charge a higher premium for drivers with restrictions.
How long does it take to remove a restriction?
The timeline depends on the type of restriction. Teen GDL restrictions are removed automatically after you meet your state's age and time requirements, which typically takes 6 months to 2 years. DUI-related restrictions require you to complete the suspension period and any court programs, which can take 1 to 5 years. Medical restrictions may be removed once you provide updated documentation showing your condition has improved.
What if I move to a different state with a restricted license?
You must obtain a license from your new state. Some restrictions (like teen GDL restrictions) may not transfer, and your new state may issue you a different type of restricted license based on its own laws. Contact your new state's DMV to learn what you need to do.
Can I get a restricted license if I have never had a license before?
Yes, if you meet the conditions for a restricted license in your state. Teen drivers receive restricted licenses as part of the GDL process. If you are an adult seeking a restricted license due to a medical condition or other reason, contact your state's DMV to learn whether you can obtain one and what documentation you need to provide.