What restrictions mean and how they come off
A restriction on your driver's license is a condition that limits how or when you can drive. Common restrictions include corrective lenses (you must wear glasses or contacts), automatic transmission only, daylight driving only, or no highway driving. Restrictions are added when you pass your road test with conditions — for example, if you failed the vision portion but passed with glasses, the restriction stays until you prove you can see well enough without them.
Restrictions come off through one of two paths: you either meet the condition that triggered the restriction, or you request a new road test to show you no longer need it. The exact process depends on your state and the type of restriction. Some restrictions fall off automatically after a set time; others require you to take action.
Key Takeaways
- Most restrictions come off by passing a new road test or by meeting the original condition — for example, passing a vision test without corrective lenses.
- Some states remove restrictions automatically after a certain number of years if you have a clean driving record; others require you to request removal.
- You will need to contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency to find out which restrictions you have and what removes them.
- The cost and timeline for restriction removal vary by state and restriction type, so check your state's DMV website or call your local office before you schedule a test.
How to find out what restrictions you have
Your driver's license itself lists restrictions in a code — usually a letter or number in a specific box on the back or front of the card. These codes vary by state. For example, one state might use "B" for corrective lenses, while another uses "01." The code alone does not tell you what it means.
The fastest way to learn what your restrictions are is to call your state's DMV directly or visit their website and search for "restriction codes." Most states publish a full list online. You can also visit a local DMV office in person and ask a staff member to explain your specific restrictions. Bring your license with you so they can see the codes.
Removing restrictions through a new road test
The most common way to remove a restriction is to pass a new road test without the condition that triggered the original restriction. For example, if you have a corrective lenses restriction, you can take the road test again without glasses or contacts to show you can see well enough to drive safely. If you pass, the restriction comes off your license.
To schedule a road test for restriction removal, contact your state's DMV and tell them you want to test out of a specific restriction. You will need to pay a road test fee — this varies by state but typically ranges from $20 to $100. Some states allow you to test out of multiple restrictions in one road test; others require a separate test for each one. Ask your DMV which applies to you before you book.
Bring the same documents you brought for your original road test: your current license, proof of residency, and proof of insurance. You will drive with an examiner who will assess whether you can safely operate the vehicle without the restriction. If you pass, the restriction is removed when ready or within a few days, depending on how your state processes licenses.
Automatic restriction removal based on time and driving record
Some states automatically remove restrictions after you have held your license for a certain number of years without violations or accidents. For example, a state might remove a daylight-only restriction after three years of clean driving. Other states do not offer automatic removal and require you to request it or test out of it.
Check your state's DMV website or call your local office to find out whether your restrictions fall off automatically. If they do, note the date you became may be able to access for removal and confirm that the restriction has actually been removed from your record — sometimes the removal takes time to process. If your state does not offer automatic removal, you will need to either pass a new road test or submit a written request to your DMV asking them to review your record and consider removing the restriction.
Restrictions that require medical or vision testing
Some restrictions, such as corrective lenses or hearing aid requirements, can only be removed by passing a medical or vision test outside the DMV. You will need to visit an eye doctor, audiologist, or other medical professional, have them perform the test, and bring the results to your DMV.
Your state's DMV will tell you which medical professional can perform the test and what form they need to complete. Some states accept results from any licensed professional; others require a specific form or a test performed at a DMV-approved facility. Call your DMV before you schedule the appointment so you know exactly what to bring and what the test will cost.
What to do if you disagree with a restriction
If you believe a restriction on your license is incorrect or no longer necessary, you have the right to challenge it. The first step is to contact your state's DMV in writing or in person and explain why you think the restriction should be removed. Include any supporting documents — for example, a recent vision test showing you can see 20/40 or better without correction.
Your DMV will review your request and either remove the restriction, ask you to take a new road test, or ask you to provide additional medical documentation. If you disagree with their decision, most states have an appeal process. Ask your DMV what that process is and what important date you have to file an appeal.
Timeline and costs for restriction removal
The cost and timeline depend on your state and the type of restriction. A road test typically costs $20 to $100 and takes one to two weeks to schedule. Medical or vision tests ordered by the DMV may cost $0 to $50, depending on whether your state covers the cost. Processing a restriction removal once you have passed a test usually takes three to seven business days.
If your state offers automatic removal, there is no cost, but you may need to request it in writing or wait for the DMV to process the removal on their own schedule. Call your local DMV office to ask about current wait times and fees in your area, as these vary widely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive without my restriction while I am waiting for it to be removed?
No. You must follow all restrictions on your license until they are officially removed. Driving in violation of a restriction can result in a ticket, fine, or points on your record. Once your restriction is removed and your new license arrives, you can drive without the restriction.
What if I fail the road test to remove my restriction?
If you fail, the restriction stays on your license. You can schedule another road test and try again. There is usually no limit on how many times you can test, but you will pay the road test fee each time. Some people take a few attempts — this is normal.
Do I get a new physical license card when a restriction is removed?
Yes. Once a restriction is removed, your state will issue a new license card with the restriction code removed. Depending on your state, this may arrive in the mail within one to two weeks, or you may be able to pick it up at a DMV office. Until the new card arrives, your current license is still valid.
Can I remove a restriction without taking a road test?
It depends on the restriction and your state. Some restrictions can be removed by passing a medical or vision test instead. Others fall off automatically after a set time. Call your DMV and describe your restriction — they will tell you what options are available to you.
What happens if I move to a different state with restrictions on my license?
Most states honor restrictions from other states when you transfer your license. However, some states may add their own restrictions or require you to pass a new road test. Contact your new state's DMV before you move to find out what will happen to your restrictions.