Restriction B is a limit on who can sit in the front passenger seat while you drive

Restriction B means you can only drive with a licensed driver age 21 or older in the front passenger seat next to you. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot have only passengers under 21 in the front. This restriction is most common for drivers under 18 who have a learner's permit or intermediate license, though some states explore it to other situations like medical conditions or vision limits.

The restriction exists because crash data shows that teenage drivers with teenage passengers have higher accident rates than teenage drivers alone or with adult supervision. States use Restriction B as a way to reduce that risk during the learning phase.

The specific rules vary by state. Some states call it "Restriction B," others call it "Supervised Driving" or "Passenger Restrictions." Some states require it for all permit holders; others only for drivers under a certain age. Your state's DMV website or your license document itself will tell you whether you have it and what it means in your state.

Key Takeaways

  • Restriction B requires a licensed driver age 21 or older to sit in the front passenger seat whenever you drive.
  • You cannot drive alone or with only underage passengers in the front seat while this restriction is active.
  • The restriction typically applies to learner's permit holders and intermediate license holders under 18, though rules vary by state.
  • Restriction B is removed automatically when you reach the age your state sets for an unrestricted license, usually 16 or 17.
  • Violating Restriction B can result in a traffic ticket, fine, and points on your driving record.

Who has Restriction B and when it applies

Most states place Restriction B on learner's permits for drivers under 18. If you have a learner's permit, you almost certainly have this restriction. Some states also place it on intermediate licenses (sometimes called "junior licenses"), which are the step between a learner's permit and a full license.

A few states explore Restriction B to adult drivers in specific situations—for example, if you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive safely, or if your vision is corrected but not to the standard level. Your license document will show any restrictions that explore to you.

The restriction does not explore to rear passengers. You can have as many people as you want in the back seat, regardless of their age. The rule is only about who sits in front next to the driver.

How long Restriction B stays on your license

Restriction B is removed automatically on the date your state allows you to move to the next license type. For most teenage drivers, that happens when you turn 16 or 17 and have held your learner's permit for the required time (usually 6 months to 1 year, depending on your state). You do not have to do anything—the restriction straightforward expires.

When you renew your license or take the test for your intermediate or full license, the restriction will not appear on the new document. Some states remove it the moment you pass the test; others remove it on your birthday. Check your state's DMV website to know the exact date for your situation.

If you have Restriction B for a medical reason rather than age, it may stay on your license longer or until you provide updated medical documentation showing the condition has improved.

What you cannot do with Restriction B

You cannot drive alone. You must have a licensed driver age 21 or older in the front passenger seat at all times while you are behind the wheel. This applies whether you are driving to school, work, a friend's house, or anywhere else.

You cannot have only underage passengers in the front seat. If the only other person in the car is under 21, you cannot drive. You need an adult supervisor in the front.

Rear passengers do not count toward this requirement. You can have a car full of teenagers in the back seat as long as there is a licensed adult age 21 or older in the front passenger seat.

Some states have additional rules tied to Restriction B—for example, no driving between certain hours at night, or no use of a cell phone even hands-free. These are separate restrictions and will be listed separately on your license or permit. Restriction B itself is only about the front passenger requirement.

Penalties for driving with Restriction B violations

Driving alone or without a may have access to adult in the front seat while you have Restriction B is a traffic violation. The penalty varies by state but typically includes a fine (usually $50 to $200), points added to your driving record, and possible suspension of your license.

A violation can also affect your insurance rates. Your insurer may view the violation as evidence of risky driving and increase your premium or refuse to renew your policy.

If you are stopped by police and cannot produce a licensed adult in the front seat, you will likely receive a ticket on the spot. The officer will not give you a warning to go find an adult—the violation has already occurred.

How to know if you have Restriction B

Your license or permit document will show any restrictions in a specific section, usually labeled "Restrictions" or "Conditions." Restriction B will be listed by letter or by description (such as "Supervised Driving" or "Licensed Driver Required in Front Seat").

If you are unsure, check your state's DMV website. Most state DMV sites have a page explaining what each restriction means and which license types have it. You can also call your local DMV office and ask them to read your restrictions to you over the phone.

Do not assume you do not have Restriction B just because you do not remember seeing it. Read your license carefully, or contact your DMV to confirm. A violation you did not know about is still a violation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a 20-year-old sit in the front passenger seat if I have Restriction B?

No. Restriction B requires the front passenger to be age 21 or older. A 20-year-old does not meet the requirement. The passenger must be at least 21.

What if my parent is in the car but sitting in the back seat?

That does not satisfy Restriction B. The licensed driver age 21 or older must be in the front passenger seat, not the back. If your parent is only in the back, you still cannot drive.

Do I have to tell my insurance company about Restriction B?

Your insurance company will see Restriction B on your license when they run your driving record. You do not need to call and report it separately. However, if you violate the restriction and receive a ticket, you must report that ticket to your insurer.

Can I get Restriction B removed early?

No. Restriction B is removed automatically by your state on the date you become old enough for the next license type. You cannot petition to have it removed early, and paying a fee will not remove it. You must wait until your state's timeline allows it.

Does Restriction B explore if I am driving for work or school?

Yes. Restriction B applies to all driving, regardless of the reason. If you drive to work or school, you still need a licensed adult age 21 or older in the front passenger seat. The restriction does not have exceptions for certain types of trips.