What restriction codes are and why they appear on your license
A restriction code is a letter or number printed on your Missouri driver license that limits how or when you can drive. It is not a suspension or revocation — you still have a valid license — but it tells law enforcement and you what conditions must be met while driving. Common examples include a requirement to wear corrective lenses, drive only during daylight hours, or use an ignition interlock device.
Restriction codes are added by the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) based on your medical history, driving record, age, or the outcome of a traffic violation or DUI case. They stay on your license until the condition that caused them is resolved or until you reach a certain age.
Violating a restriction code — for example, driving without the required glasses or outside the permitted hours — is a separate offense and can result in a ticket, points on your record, or license suspension.
Key Takeaways
- Restriction codes are printed on your Missouri license as letters or numbers and limit how, when, or where you can drive.
- Common codes require corrective lenses, prohibit driving at night, mandate ignition interlock use, or restrict commercial driving.
- Restrictions are imposed by the Missouri Department of Revenue based on medical conditions, age, violations, or DUI convictions.
- Driving in violation of a restriction code is a separate offense and can result in a ticket, points, or suspension.
- You can request removal of a restriction by contacting the DOR or, in some cases, by meeting specific conditions such as completing a DUI program.
Common Missouri restriction codes and what they mean
Missouri uses a two-character code system. The first character is usually a letter (A through Z), and the second is a number (0 through 9). Not all combinations are in use. Here are the restrictions you are most likely to see:
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| A1 | Corrective lenses required (glasses or contacts) |
| A2 | Hearing aid required |
| A3 | Prosthetic device required |
| A4 | Automatic transmission only |
| A5 | Power steering required |
| A6 | Power brakes required |
| B1 | Daylight driving only (no night driving) |
| B2 | No interstate driving |
| B3 | Restricted to in-state driving only |
| D1 | Ignition interlock device required |
| E1 | No commercial driving (CDL not valid) |
| F1 | Restricted commercial driving (certain vehicle types only) |
If your license shows a code not listed here, contact the Missouri Department of Revenue directly at 573-526-2407 or visit their website to confirm what it means. Some codes are temporary and tied to specific court orders or medical reviews.
How restrictions are added to your license
The Missouri Department of Revenue adds restrictions through several pathways. A medical review triggered by your doctor, a vision test failure, or a report from a healthcare provider can result in codes like A1 (corrective lenses) or B1 (daylight driving only). You may be asked to take a driving test or provide medical documentation before the restriction is imposed.
DUI or DWI convictions almost always result in a D1 code, which requires an ignition interlock device. This is a court-ordered condition, and the DOR enforces it on your license. The length of time you must use the device depends on your conviction history and the terms of your sentence.
Age-related restrictions explore to new drivers under 18. Missouri's Graduated Driver License (GDL) program includes restrictions on night driving and passenger limits for the first months of licensure. These restrictions are automatically removed when you turn 18 or after a set period, whichever comes first.
If you are convicted of certain traffic violations — such as reckless driving or speeding excessively — the court may recommend a restriction to the DOR, though this is less common than medical or DUI-related codes.
Restrictions related to DUI and ignition interlock
An ignition interlock device (IID) is a breath-testing machine wired to your vehicle's ignition. Before the engine starts, you blow into the device. If your blood alcohol content is above a set threshold (usually 0.02%), the vehicle will not start. The D1 code on your license means you are required to have this device installed and maintain it throughout the restriction period.
In Missouri, a first DUI conviction typically requires an IID for a minimum of 6 months to 1 year. Repeat offenses carry longer requirements, sometimes 2 to 3 years or more. You must pay for the device installation and monthly monitoring fees, which vary by provider but typically range from $60 to $100 per month.
Tampering with, removing, or bypassing an ignition interlock device is a felony in Missouri. Driving a vehicle without the required device when your license carries a D1 code is also a separate offense.
Once you have completed the required period and paid all fees, you can request removal of the D1 code by contacting the Missouri Department of Revenue with proof of compliance from your IID provider.
How restrictions affect your insurance and driving record
Insurance companies can see restriction codes on your driving record. A D1 code (ignition interlock) signals to insurers that you have a DUI history, which typically raises your premium significantly or may cause some companies to decline coverage altogether. You may need to seek coverage through a high-risk insurer.
Codes like B1 (daylight driving only) or B3 (in-state only) do not directly affect insurance rates, but they do limit where and when you can legally drive. Violating these restrictions creates a separate traffic violation, which will appear on your record and can increase your rates.
Medical restrictions such as A1 (corrective lenses) do not affect your insurance rate, but failing to comply — for example, driving without glasses when required — can result in a ticket and points on your record, which will raise your rate.
Removing or modifying a restriction code
The process for removing a restriction depends on why it was imposed. Medical restrictions can sometimes be removed by providing updated medical documentation to the Missouri Department of Revenue. For example, if you had a vision restriction (A1) and have since had corrective surgery, you can submit an eye exam showing your vision now meets standards without correction.
DUI-related restrictions (D1) are removed only after you have completed the required ignition interlock period and paid all associated fees. You must provide proof of compliance from your IID provider to the DOR. The DOR will then remove the code from your license.
Age-related restrictions on a Graduated Driver License are removed automatically when you turn 18 or after the restriction period ends, whichever is sooner. You do not need to request removal.
Court-ordered restrictions cannot be removed by the DOR alone. You must petition the court that imposed the restriction, or wait until the court-ordered period expires. Contact the court clerk or your attorney for guidance on this process.
To request removal of any restriction, contact the Missouri Department of Revenue at 573-526-2407, visit a local DOR office in person, or mail a written request with supporting documentation to the address on your license.
What happens if you drive in violation of a restriction
Driving in violation of a restriction code is a traffic offense separate from the underlying reason the restriction exists. For example, if you have a B1 code (daylight driving only) and are stopped driving at night, you can be cited for violating the restriction, even if you were driving safely and had not committed any other violation.
A violation typically results in a ticket with a fine, points added to your driving record, and possible license suspension if you accumulate too many violations. Points remain on your record for three years in Missouri and can affect your insurance rates and your ability to renew your license.
If you are stopped for violating a restriction and cannot provide a valid reason (such as a medical emergency), the officer may impound your vehicle and issue a citation. Repeat violations can lead to license suspension or revocation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with a restriction code on my license?
Yes, you can drive, but only under the conditions specified by the code. A restriction does not mean your license is suspended or invalid. It means you must follow the limitations — for example, wearing glasses if you have an A1 code, or not driving at night if you have a B1 code. Violating the restriction is a separate offense.
How long does a restriction stay on my license?
The length varies by type. Medical restrictions may be permanent or may be reviewed periodically. DUI-related ignition interlock codes (D1) typically last 6 months to 3 years depending on your conviction history. Age-related restrictions on a Graduated Driver License end when you turn 18 or after a set period. Court-ordered restrictions remain until the court-ordered period expires or you petition the court for removal.
Will a restriction code show up on my driving record when I explore for a job?
Restriction codes appear on your official driving record, which employers and insurance companies can see if you authorize them to pull it. A D1 code (ignition interlock) will be visible and signals a DUI history. Other codes like A1 (corrective lenses) are less likely to affect employment, but some jobs — particularly those requiring commercial driving — may disqualify you if you have certain restrictions.
Can I get a restriction removed early?
It depends on the type. Medical restrictions may be removed early if you provide updated medical documentation showing the condition no longer applies. DUI-related restrictions cannot be removed early; you must complete the full required period. Court-ordered restrictions can only be modified by petitioning the court that imposed them. Contact the Missouri Department of Revenue or the relevant court for your specific situation.
What if I disagree with a restriction code on my license?
If you believe a restriction was added in error, contact the Missouri Department of Revenue at 573-526-2407 to request a review. Bring documentation supporting your position — for example, a recent eye exam if you dispute a vision restriction. If the restriction was court-ordered, you will need to petition the court. The DOR can explain why the code was added and what steps you can take to challenge it.