5DD is a vision restriction that limits when and where you can drive

The code 5DD on your Florida driver's license means you can only drive during daylight hours — sunrise to sunset. It is a vision restriction, not a suspension or revocation. You are still licensed to drive, but only under specific conditions related to your eyesight.

This restriction appears on your license when the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) determines that your vision is safe enough for daytime driving but not safe enough for night driving. Common reasons include cataracts, reduced peripheral vision, or other eye conditions that make it harder to see in low light.

If you drive outside daylight hours with a 5DD restriction, you are breaking the law. A law enforcement officer can cite you for violating your license restrictions, which carries a fine and points on your driving record.

Key Takeaways

  • 5DD means you can drive only between sunrise and sunset; driving at night violates your license restrictions.
  • The restriction is placed on your license after a vision test shows you are unsafe for night driving but safe for day driving.
  • You can request a vision retest through DHSMV if your eyesight improves or if you believe the restriction was placed in error.
  • Violating a 5DD restriction results in a traffic citation, fine, and points added to your driving record.

How you get a 5DD restriction

A 5DD restriction is usually placed on your license during a vision screening at the DHSMV office. This happens most often when you renew your license and the vision test shows a problem. The examiner will measure your visual acuity and may test your peripheral vision, depth perception, or ability to see in dim light.

You can also receive a 5DD restriction if you are involved in a crash and DHSMV determines that poor vision played a role. In that case, you may be required to take a vision retest before you can keep your license.

Some people get the restriction after an eye doctor reports a vision problem to DHSMV. Florida law allows eye care professionals to report conditions that may make driving unsafe, and DHSMV can then require you to take a vision test.

What counts as daylight hours under 5DD

Daylight hours mean from sunrise to sunset in your location on that day. You cannot use a fixed time like 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. — the actual sunrise and sunset times change throughout the year and vary slightly by where you are in Florida.

If you are unsure whether it is safe to drive at a particular time, check a sunrise-sunset table for your county or use a weather app that shows the exact times. Driving even 15 minutes after sunset violates your restriction, so it is safer to stop driving well before the sun goes down.

The restriction applies every day, including weekends and holidays. There is no exception for emergencies — if you need to drive at night, you must first have the restriction removed.

How to request removal of a 5DD restriction

If your vision has improved or if you believe the restriction was placed in error, you can request a vision retest. Contact your local DHSMV office and ask to schedule a vision screening. You will take the same test you took when the restriction was placed.

Before you go, consider visiting an eye doctor. If you have had surgery, gotten new glasses or contacts, or made other changes to correct your vision, bring documentation from your eye care provider. DHSMV may accept a letter from your doctor stating that your vision now meets the standard for unrestricted driving.

If you pass the retest, DHSMV will remove the 5DD code from your license. If you do not pass, the restriction stays in place. You can request another retest after a reasonable time has passed — usually at least 90 days — if you have made changes to your vision correction.

The difference between 5DD and other vision restrictions

Florida uses several vision restriction codes, and 5DD is one of the less severe ones. Other codes include 5DE (corrective lenses required), 5DF (outside mirrors required), and 5DG (automatic transmission only). A 5DD restriction means your vision itself is the issue, not your ability to use corrective devices or operate the vehicle.

Some restrictions can be combined. For example, you might have both 5DE (must wear glasses) and 5DD (daylight only), meaning you must wear your corrective lenses and can only drive during the day.

If you are unsure what your restrictions mean, look at the back of your license. All restrictions are listed there with their codes. You can also call your local DHSMV office or check the DHSMV website for a full list of restriction codes and what they require.

What happens if you drive with a 5DD violation

Driving outside daylight hours when you have a 5DD restriction is a traffic violation. An officer who stops you can issue a citation for violating your license restrictions. The fine varies but typically ranges from $50 to $150, and you will receive points on your driving record.

If you are in a crash while driving at night with a 5DD restriction, the violation can be used against you in insurance claims or legal proceedings. Your insurance company may deny coverage if they determine you were breaking the law at the time of the crash.

Repeated violations can lead to license suspension or revocation. DHSMV tracks violations, and a pattern of breaking your restrictions may result in losing your license entirely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive at dusk or dawn with a 5DD restriction?

No. You can only drive between sunrise and sunset. Dusk (after sunset) and dawn (before sunrise) are not permitted. If you are unsure of the exact time, check a sunrise-sunset app for your location to be safe.

Will a 5DD restriction show up on my insurance?

Your insurance company can see your license restrictions through DHSMV records. Whether it affects your rates depends on your insurer's policy. Some companies charge more for restricted drivers; others do not. Contact your agent to ask.

How long does a 5DD restriction last?

A 5DD restriction stays on your license until you request and pass a vision retest, or until your license expires and you renew it. If your vision has not improved by the time you renew, the restriction will be placed on your new license as well.

Can I get a 5DD restriction removed without a retest?

No. You must pass a vision screening to have the restriction removed. However, if an eye doctor has corrected your vision through surgery or new glasses, bring that documentation to your retest — it may help you pass.

What if I need to drive at night for work?

You will need to have the 5DD restriction removed through a vision retest. If you cannot pass the retest, you may not legally drive at night. Some people in this situation explore other transportation options or change jobs to accommodate the restriction.