Restriction G stops you from driving without corrective lenses

Restriction G on a Texas driver's license means you must wear eyeglasses or contact lenses every time you drive. If you fail the vision test during your license exam or renewal, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will add this restriction to your license. You cannot legally drive without your corrective lenses, even for a short trip.

The restriction appears on the front of your license as a letter code. When an officer pulls you over, they can see it when ready. Driving without your required corrective lenses when Restriction G is on your license is a violation and can result in a ticket, fine, or other penalties depending on the circumstances.

This restriction is common and does not affect your ability to work as a driver or hold most jobs. Many people drive with Restriction G throughout their entire driving lives. The key is remembering to put on your glasses or contacts before you get behind the wheel.

Key Takeaways

  • Restriction G requires you to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses whenever you drive, and it appears on the front of your license.
  • You receive Restriction G if you fail the vision screening during your license exam or renewal with the Texas DPS.
  • Driving without your corrective lenses when Restriction G is on your license is illegal and can result in a traffic citation.
  • You can remove Restriction G by passing a vision test without corrective lenses at your next renewal or by visiting a DPS office for a vision retest.

How you get Restriction G on your Texas license

During your license exam or renewal, a DPS employee will test your vision using a standard eye chart. If you cannot read the required line on the chart without corrective lenses, or if your vision with corrective lenses does not meet the minimum standard, the examiner will place Restriction G on your license.

Texas law requires that drivers have vision of at least 20/40 in each eye, or 20/40 in one eye and 20/60 in the other, with or without correction. If you need glasses or contacts to meet that standard, you will get Restriction G. The restriction is automatic — you do not have a choice, and the DPS does not ask your permission.

You may also receive Restriction G if you have a medical condition that affects your vision, such as cataracts or macular degeneration, even if you can pass the test with corrective lenses. In these cases, the restriction protects both you and other drivers on the road.

What happens if you drive without your corrective lenses

Driving without your required corrective lenses when Restriction G is on your license is a traffic violation. An officer who stops you can cite you for this offense. The penalty varies but typically includes a fine of $100 to $200, though the exact amount depends on the officer's discretion and local court policy.

Beyond the fine, a violation can add points to your driving record, which may increase your insurance rates. If you cause an accident while driving without your corrective lenses, your insurance company may deny your claim or reduce your coverage, leaving you responsible for damages. In serious cases, you could face additional charges.

The safest approach is straightforward: keep your glasses or contacts with you and put them on before you start driving. If you forget them at home, it is better to turn around than to risk a ticket or an accident.

How to remove Restriction G from your license

The easiest way to remove Restriction G is to pass a vision test without corrective lenses at your next license renewal. When you renew your license, the DPS will test your vision again. If you can now read the required line on the eye chart without glasses or contacts, the examiner will remove the restriction.

You do not have to wait for your renewal date. You can visit any DPS office and request a vision retest at any time. There is no fee for the retest, and it takes only a few minutes. If you pass, the examiner will issue you a new license without Restriction G on the spot or mail it to you within a few days, depending on the office.

Keep in mind that your vision may change over time. If you have had eye surgery, started wearing a different prescription, or believe your vision has improved, a retest is worth your time. Bring your current license and be prepared to show your identity.

Restriction G and employment as a commercial or professional driver

Restriction G does not prevent you from holding a commercial driver's license (CDL) or working as a professional driver. However, if you need corrective lenses to meet the vision standard for a CDL, the restriction will appear on your commercial license as well, and you must wear your lenses while driving commercially.

Some employers may have their own vision policies that are stricter than Texas law. Before you take a job that requires a CDL or involves driving, ask the employer whether they have vision requirements beyond what the state requires. Most do not, but it is worth confirming.

If you drive for rideshare, delivery, or other gig work, Restriction G does not disqualify you. You straightforward need to follow the restriction and wear your corrective lenses every time you drive for work.

What to do if you disagree with the vision test result

If you believe the vision test was wrong or that you should have passed without corrective lenses, you have options. You can request that the examiner retest you on the same day, though this is at the examiner's discretion. You can also visit a different DPS office and ask for another test.

If you have had recent eye surgery or a change in your prescription, bring documentation from your eye doctor. Some DPS offices will consider a letter from an optometrist or ophthalmologist stating that your vision meets the legal standard. This is not may provide to override the test result, but it may help your case.

If you are unhappy with the outcome, you can file a complaint with the Texas DPS or contact your state representative. However, the fastest path forward is usually to get a new eye exam from your own eye doctor, update your prescription if needed, and then return to the DPS for a retest.

Restriction G and your insurance rates

Having Restriction G on your license does not automatically raise your insurance rates. Insurance companies care more about your driving record — accidents, tickets, and claims — than about the restrictions on your license. However, if you receive a ticket for driving without your corrective lenses, that ticket will affect your rates.

When you shop for insurance, you do not need to disclose Restriction G separately. Your license information is part of your driving record, and insurers will see it. If you have a clean driving record aside from the restriction, your rates should be standard for your age, location, and vehicle.

The best way to keep your rates low is to follow the restriction, wear your corrective lenses, and avoid traffic violations. A single ticket for driving without your lenses can cost you more in higher insurance premiums over the next three to five years than the fine itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear sunglasses instead of regular glasses if I have Restriction G?

Yes, as long as your sunglasses have your corrective prescription in them. If your sunglasses are just tinted and do not correct your vision, they do not satisfy Restriction G. Prescription sunglasses are a valid option and many people use them while driving.

What if I lose my glasses while I am out and need to drive home?

Technically, driving without your corrective lenses when Restriction G is on your license is illegal. However, if you are stopped and explain that you lost your glasses, an officer may use discretion. The safest choice is to call someone for a ride, use a rideshare service, or wait until you can get a replacement pair.

Does Restriction G appear on my license record that employers see?

Restriction G appears on your actual license card and on your driving record. Most employers who run a background check will see your driving record, including restrictions. However, Restriction G alone does not disqualify you from most jobs — only jobs with specific vision requirements beyond the legal standard.

How often do I need to retest to remove Restriction G?

You do not need to retest on a schedule. You can retest whenever you want at any DPS office, and there is no fee. Many people retest at their renewal date. If your vision has improved or you have had corrective surgery, you can request a retest when ready.

Can I get a temporary license without Restriction G while I wait for eye surgery?

No. Texas does not issue temporary licenses that override restrictions. If you are having eye surgery that you believe will improve your vision enough to remove Restriction G, plan the surgery around your renewal date if possible, or retest after recovery. Until then, you must follow the restriction.