REST is a restriction code that limits when and how you can drive
REST on your Florida driver's license means you have a restriction — a rule about the conditions under which you are allowed to drive. It is not a ban on driving itself. The specific restriction depends on what code follows REST on your license. Florida uses letter codes after REST to tell you exactly what you cannot do or when you cannot drive.
The most common REST restriction is REST (D), which means you can only drive during daylight hours — typically sunrise to sunset. Other REST codes limit you to driving with corrective lenses, automatic transmission only, or with an ignition interlock device if you have a DUI conviction. When you look at your physical license card, you will see REST listed under "Restrictions" along with the letter code that explains which rule applies to you.
Understanding your specific restriction matters because violating it — driving outside the allowed conditions — is a traffic violation. It can result in a ticket, points on your record, or license suspension, even if you are otherwise a safe driver.
Key Takeaways
- REST on your Florida license means you have a driving restriction, not a complete ban on driving.
- The letter code after REST (such as D for daylight only) tells you the exact condition or limitation that applies to you.
- Violating your restriction by driving outside its conditions is a traffic violation with real consequences.
- Restrictions are assigned based on your age, vision, medical condition, or prior driving violations.
- You can request removal of a restriction once the reason for it no longer applies.
Common REST restriction codes and what they mean
Florida uses specific letter codes to identify each type of restriction. REST (D) is the most common: it means daylight driving only, and you cannot drive between sunset and sunrise. This restriction is often given to new drivers under 18, drivers with certain vision problems, or older drivers whose eyesight is limited in low light.
REST (E) means you must wear corrective lenses — glasses or contact lenses — every time you drive. If you took your vision test while wearing them, the DMV will add this restriction to your license. Driving without your lenses when REST (E) is on your license is a violation.
Other common codes include REST (A) for automatic transmission only (you cannot drive a manual transmission vehicle), REST (B) for an ignition interlock device (required after certain DUI convictions), and REST (C) for vehicles with power steering. Some restrictions are temporary and expire on a set date; others remain until you request their removal and meet the conditions to have them lifted.
Why you might have a REST restriction
Restrictions are placed on your license for safety reasons based on your individual situation. If you are a new driver under 18, Florida may add a daylight-only restriction to reduce your risk during the hours when teen crashes are most common. If your vision test showed you need correction to drive safely, REST (E) ensures you always have your glasses or contacts with you.
Medical conditions can also result in restrictions. If you have a condition that affects your ability to operate a manual transmission or requires you to drive an automatic, that will be noted. A DUI conviction will add an ignition interlock restriction, which requires a device that prevents the car from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath.
Age-related restrictions are common too. Older drivers may receive daylight-only restrictions if their vision or reaction time is slower at night, even if they pass the standard vision test. The restriction is meant to keep you and others safe by limiting your driving to conditions where you can perform best.
How to check what restrictions are on your license
Your Florida driver's license card shows all restrictions in a section labeled "Restrictions" near the bottom. Look for the word REST followed by a letter in parentheses. If your license shows no restrictions, this section will be blank or say "None."
You can also check your restrictions online through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) website by logging into your driver record. Your record will list every restriction code and, in many cases, the expiration date if the restriction is temporary. If you are unsure what a code means, you can call your local DMV office or visit in person to ask.
Keep in mind that restrictions on your license are legally binding. If a police officer stops you and your license shows REST (D) but you are driving after dark, you can be cited for violating your restriction, regardless of whether you were driving safely.
How to request removal of a REST restriction
If your restriction was temporary — such as a daylight-only rule that expired on a specific date — you may be able to remove it by renewing your license or visiting a DMV office. Bring your current license and proof that the reason for the restriction no longer applies. For example, if REST (E) was added because you failed a vision test without correction, you can bring a current eye exam showing you now pass without glasses.
For restrictions tied to age (such as those given to drivers under 18), the restriction automatically lifts when you reach the age threshold, usually 18 or 21. You do not need to do anything; your next renewal will show the restriction removed.
If you want to remove a restriction before it expires or before your renewal date, visit your local DMV office. You may need to retake a vision test, provide a medical evaluation, or show documentation that the condition has changed. Some restrictions, like those from a DUI conviction, require you to complete a program or meet specific legal requirements before they can be removed.
What happens if you violate your restriction
Driving in violation of a REST restriction is a traffic violation. If you are stopped while driving outside your restriction's conditions — for example, driving after sunset with REST (D) on your license — you can receive a citation. This violation adds points to your driving record and can increase your insurance rates.
Multiple violations can lead to license suspension or revocation. A single violation may result in a fine and points; repeated violations show a pattern of unsafe driving and give the DMV grounds to suspend your license. If you are involved in a crash while violating your restriction, the violation can be used against you in an insurance claim or lawsuit.
The safest approach is to follow your restrictions exactly as written. If a restriction makes it difficult for you to drive when you need to, work with the DMV to have it removed or modified rather than ignoring it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with REST (D) if it is twilight or dusk?
No. REST (D) means daylight hours only, which is typically defined as sunrise to sunset. Twilight and dusk fall outside this window. If you are unsure whether it is still legal to drive, it is safer to stop driving before sunset. The exact times change throughout the year, so you may want to check sunrise and sunset times for your area.
What if I forgot my glasses and I have REST (E) on my license?
You should not drive. REST (E) requires corrective lenses every time you operate a vehicle. Driving without them is a violation, even if you think you can see well enough. If you are already out and realize you forgot your glasses, find another way to get home or wait until you have them.
Does a REST restriction mean I failed my driving test?
No. Restrictions are not a sign of failure. They are safety measures based on your individual circumstances — your age, vision, medical history, or prior violations. Many safe, responsible drivers have restrictions. A restriction straightforward means you have a condition that requires you to follow specific rules while driving.
Will my REST restriction show up on my insurance?
Your insurance company can see your restrictions through your driving record. Some restrictions, like those from a DUI, may affect your rates. Others, like a daylight-only restriction, typically do not. If you are concerned, contact your insurance agent and ask how your specific restriction affects your policy.
Can I get my restriction removed before the expiration date?
It depends on the reason for the restriction. If it was based on a temporary condition that has improved — such as vision that is now corrected — you may be able to remove it by visiting the DMV with proof. If it is tied to your age, you must wait until you reach the required age. Contact your local DMV office to ask what documentation you need to request early removal.