Code B is a restricted license category that limits what you can drive and where you can drive it

A Code B driver's license is a restricted license issued in some states that permits you to drive only automatic transmission vehicles. The restriction appears on your license as a code or condition, and you are legally prohibited from operating a manual transmission (stick shift) vehicle. If you drive a manual transmission car while holding a Code B license, you can be cited for driving outside the scope of your license.

Code B exists because some drivers—typically those who learned to drive on automatic transmissions only, or who have physical limitations that make manual transmission operation unsafe—have not demonstrated competency with manual transmissions. The restriction protects both the driver and other road users by ensuring that only drivers trained on that vehicle type operate it.

Not all states use the Code B designation. Some states use different codes or labels for the same restriction, and some do not issue this restriction at all. The specific rules, how you receive the restriction, and whether you can remove it vary significantly by state.

Key Takeaways

  • Code B restricts you to automatic transmission vehicles only; driving a manual transmission car with this code on your license is a violation.
  • The restriction is typically placed on your license when you pass your driving test in an automatic transmission vehicle and do not demonstrate manual transmission skills.
  • Not all states use Code B; some use different codes, and some do not issue transmission restrictions at all.
  • You can usually remove Code B by passing a driving test in a manual transmission vehicle in the same state that issued your license.
  • If you move to a state that does not recognize Code B, your new license may not carry the restriction, though rules vary by state.

How Code B appears on your license and what it means legally

When Code B is printed on your license, it typically appears in a restrictions or conditions section, often labeled "Restrictions" or "Conditions." The exact format depends on your state's license design. Some states print it as "Code B," others as "Automatic Transmission Only," and some use abbreviations like "AT" or "Auto Trans."

The restriction is legally binding. If a police officer stops you and you are driving a manual transmission vehicle, the officer can cite you for violating your license restrictions. This is treated as a separate offense from driving without a valid license—you have a valid license, but you are operating outside its scope. The citation can result in a fine, points on your driving record, or both, depending on your state's traffic laws.

Insurance companies may also note the restriction. If you cause an accident while driving a manual transmission vehicle with Code B on your license, your insurer may deny your claim or use the violation as grounds to cancel your policy, since you were operating outside the terms of your license.

Which states issue Code B and how the restriction is applied

Code B is most commonly issued in states that follow the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) standardized license codes. States that use this system include California, Texas, Florida, New York, and many others. However, not every state that uses AAMVA codes applies Code B in the same way, and some states have phased out the restriction or explore it inconsistently.

The restriction is usually placed on your license in one of two ways. First, if you take your driving test (the behind-the-wheel portion) in an automatic transmission vehicle, many states automatically add Code B to your license. You are not asked whether you want the restriction—it is applied because you demonstrated competency only in an automatic. Second, some states place Code B on your license if you request it, though this is less common.

A few states—including some in the Northeast and Midwest—do not issue Code B at all, even if you test in an automatic transmission vehicle. In those states, passing your test in any vehicle type grants you an unrestricted license. If you move from a state that issues Code B to one that does not, your new license will not carry the restriction.

How to remove Code B from your license

To remove Code B, you must pass a driving test in a manual transmission vehicle in the state that issued your license. You cannot remove the restriction by taking a test in another state and then transferring your license. The process typically involves scheduling a new driving test appointment with your state's DMV or equivalent agency, just as you would for an initial license.

On test day, you must bring a manual transmission vehicle to the testing location. The examiner will evaluate your ability to operate the clutch, shift gears, and control the vehicle safely. The test covers the same road skills and safety rules as your original test, but the examiner will specifically assess your manual transmission competency. If you pass, Code B is removed from your license, usually on the same day or within a few business days.

Some states charge a fee for the restriction removal test, while others do not. Fees vary by state and typically range from $10 to $50. Contact your state DMV before scheduling to confirm the fee and whether you need to bring any documents beyond your current license and the manual transmission vehicle.

What happens if you move to another state with Code B on your license

When you move and transfer your license to a new state, the new state's DMV will review your current license and decide whether to carry forward the Code B restriction. The outcome depends on whether the new state recognizes and uses Code B in its licensing system.

If you move to a state that uses Code B, the restriction will typically transfer to your new license automatically. You will not need to take another test; the new state honors the restriction from your previous license. If you move to a state that does not use Code B or does not recognize it, your new license will not carry the restriction, even though your old license did. In this case, you are no longer legally bound by the automatic transmission limitation.

If you move to a state that does use Code B but you want to remove the restriction before transferring your license, you can take the manual transmission test in your current state first, remove Code B, and then transfer your license. This ensures the restriction does not appear on your new license.

Code B and international driving permits or licenses

If you hold a Code B license and plan to rent a car or drive in another country, the restriction may or may not be recognized. Most car rental agencies in the United States will honor Code B and will not rent you a manual transmission vehicle if your license carries the restriction. However, rental policies vary by company and location.

Outside the United States, Code B from a U.S. license is generally not recognized. International driving permits (IDPs) issued by the American Automobile Association (AAA) do not transfer restrictions from your U.S. license. If you obtain an IDP, it will not show Code B, and you may be able to rent a manual transmission vehicle abroad. However, if you cause an accident or are stopped by police while driving a manual transmission vehicle, your U.S. insurance and legal liability are still governed by your Code B restriction.

Common mistakes and misconceptions about Code B

One frequent misunderstanding is that Code B is optional or that you can request it removed without taking a test. Code B is a legal restriction on your license, not a preference. You cannot straightforward ask the DMV to remove it; you must pass a driving test in a manual transmission vehicle to remove it.

Another mistake is assuming that Code B will not appear on your license if you test in an automatic. In states that issue Code B, the restriction is applied automatically when you pass your test in an automatic transmission vehicle. You do not opt in; it is the default outcome.

Some drivers also mistakenly believe that Code B disappears when they renew their license. The restriction remains on your license through every renewal until you formally remove it by passing the manual transmission test. Renewing your license does not change the restriction status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive a manual transmission car if I have Code B on my license?

No. Code B legally restricts you to automatic transmission vehicles only. Driving a manual transmission vehicle with Code B on your license is a violation and can result in a citation, fine, and points on your driving record. The restriction is enforceable by law enforcement.

Do I have to take a full driving test to remove Code B, or just a manual transmission portion?

Most states require a full driving test, including the written portion and the road test, when you remove Code B. However, some states may waive the written test if you are straightforward removing a restriction from an existing license. Contact your state DMV to confirm what is required before you schedule your test.

What if I inherited a car with a manual transmission and I have Code B?

You cannot legally drive that car with Code B on your license. You would need to either remove Code B by passing a manual transmission test, or arrange for someone else to drive the vehicle. Driving it yourself would be a violation of your license restrictions.

If I get Code B removed, will it show on my driving record?

The removal of Code B itself does not appear as a violation on your record. However, if you were cited for driving a manual transmission vehicle while Code B was active, that citation will remain on your record even after you remove the restriction.

Does Code B affect my insurance rates?

Code B itself does not typically affect your insurance rates. However, if you violate the restriction and receive a citation, that citation can increase your rates. Additionally, if you cause an accident while driving outside your license restrictions, your insurer may deny coverage or use it as grounds for cancellation.