A "G" restriction limits you to driving with a licensed adult in the front seat
A "G" restriction on a Texas driver's license means you must have a licensed driver age 21 or older sitting next to you in the front seat whenever you drive. You cannot drive alone, and the supervising driver must have a valid license — it does not have to be a Texas license, but it must be current and valid. This restriction is most common for new drivers under 18 who have earned their license through the graduated licensing system.
The restriction appears on the front of your license card and stays in place until you turn 18, unless you meet the conditions to have it removed earlier. During this time, you can drive to school, work, or other destinations, but never without that licensed adult present in the front passenger seat.
Key Takeaways
- A "G" restriction requires a licensed driver age 21 or older to sit in the front seat whenever you drive.
- The restriction applies to drivers under 18 who received their license through Texas's graduated licensing program.
- You can have the restriction removed at age 18, or earlier if you complete an approved driver education course before age 18.
- The supervising driver must have a valid license from any state, but it must be current and not suspended.
Who gets a "G" restriction and why
Texas issues a "G" restriction to drivers who pass their road test and receive a Class D license before turning 18. This is part of Texas's graduated licensing system, which gives new young drivers more experience under supervision before they drive independently. The restriction is designed to reduce crashes among teenage drivers by requiring a responsible adult in the vehicle.
If you are 18 or older when you pass your road test, you do not receive a "G" restriction — your license will be unrestricted from the start. The restriction only applies to those who earned their license as a minor.
How to remove the "G" restriction before age 18
You can have the "G" restriction removed before you turn 18 if you complete an approved driver education course. Texas recognizes courses offered by public schools, private driving schools, and online providers that meet state standards. Once you finish the course, you receive a certificate of completion.
Take your certificate to a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office along with your current license and proof of identity. A DPS employee will issue you a new license without the "G" restriction. There is a fee for the replacement license, which varies but is typically under $30. This process usually takes a few minutes at the office.
If you do not complete a driver education course, the restriction automatically lifts on your 18th birthday. You do not need to do anything — your license will be valid without the restriction once you turn 18.
What you can and cannot do with a "G" restriction
With a "G" restriction, you can drive to school, work, medical appointments, and other destinations during any time of day. You can drive on highways, city streets, and rural roads. The restriction does not limit where you go or when you go — it only requires that a licensed adult be in the front seat.
You cannot drive alone under any circumstances while the restriction is active. This includes short trips to a nearby store, driving to pick up a friend, or any solo driving. If you are pulled over without a supervising driver in the front seat, you can be cited for violating the restriction, which may result in a fine or other penalties.
The supervising driver must be in the front passenger seat, not in the back. They must also be actively present — they cannot be asleep or incapacitated. The licensed driver does not have to be a parent or guardian; any valid licensed driver age 21 or older meets the requirement.
What happens if you drive alone with a "G" restriction
Driving alone while a "G" restriction is in place is a violation of Texas traffic law. If a police officer stops you and you are the only person in the vehicle, you can receive a citation. The penalty is typically a fine, though the exact amount depends on the officer and the court.
A violation may also affect your driving record and could impact your insurance rates. If you accumulate violations, your license could be suspended. It is important to follow the restriction until it is removed or until you turn 18.
The supervising driver's role and requirements
The adult in the front seat does not have to actively supervise or teach you — they straightforward need to be present and hold a valid license. They can be a parent, guardian, older sibling, relative, or any other licensed adult. The license must be from any U.S. state or territory and must not be suspended, revoked, or expired.
If the supervising driver's license is suspended or revoked, they cannot legally supervise you, and you should not drive. Before getting in the car with a supervising driver you do not know well, it is reasonable to ask to see their license to confirm it is valid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with a "G" restriction if the supervising driver is in the back seat?
No. The licensed driver must be in the front passenger seat. A supervising driver in the back seat does not satisfy the restriction. The restriction specifically requires a licensed driver age 21 or older in the front seat next to you.
Does the supervising driver have to be from Texas?
No. The supervising driver's license can be from any U.S. state or territory. It must be valid and current, but it does not have to be a Texas license. Military licenses and licenses from other countries are not accepted.
What if I turn 18 before I remove the "G" restriction?
The restriction automatically lifts on your 18th birthday. You do not need to visit a DPS office or take any action. Your license becomes unrestricted at that moment, and you can drive alone legally from that point forward.
Can I get the "G" restriction removed if I did not take a driver education course?
No. The only way to remove the restriction before age 18 is to complete an approved driver education course. Otherwise, you must wait until your 18th birthday, when the restriction automatically expires.
Does a "G" restriction affect my ability to get car insurance?
A "G" restriction itself does not prevent you from getting insurance, but some insurers may charge higher rates for drivers under 18. The restriction shows that you are a new driver, which is a factor insurers consider. Shop around with different companies to find the best rate.