Restriction A is a condition on your Missouri license that limits you to driving only vehicles with an automatic transmission
If your Missouri driver's license shows Restriction A, you are legally permitted to drive only cars, trucks, or motorcycles equipped with automatic transmissions. You cannot operate any vehicle with a manual (stick shift) transmission, even if you know how to drive one. The restriction appears on the front of your physical license card and in the Missouri driver record system.
This restriction is placed on your license during the testing and licensing process, usually because you took your driving test in an automatic vehicle. It remains on your license until you formally request its removal by retesting in a manual transmission vehicle.
Restriction A is one of several conditions Missouri places on licenses. Others include restrictions for corrective lenses, hearing aids, or vehicle modifications. Unlike some restrictions that are permanent safety measures, Restriction A can be removed at any time you choose to demonstrate manual transmission competency.
Key Takeaways
- Restriction A means you can only legally drive automatic transmission vehicles; driving a manual transmission vehicle with this restriction is a violation.
- The restriction is placed on your license if you passed your driving test in an automatic vehicle.
- You can remove Restriction A by scheduling a retest with the Missouri Department of Revenue and passing the driving test in a manual transmission vehicle.
- The restriction appears on both your physical license card and your electronic driving record, so rental companies and law enforcement can see it.
- Removing the restriction costs the same as a standard driving test and takes one appointment at your local Missouri license office.
How Restriction A Gets Placed on Your License
When you take your Missouri driving test, the examiner notes what type of transmission the test vehicle has. If you test in an automatic transmission vehicle, the examiner marks your record with Restriction A. This happens regardless of whether you requested an automatic vehicle or straightforward showed up in one.
The restriction is not a judgment about your driving ability. It is a legal record that you demonstrated competency only in automatic vehicles during your test. Missouri law treats manual and automatic transmissions as different skill sets, so the state restricts you to the type you were tested in.
If you initially received your license in another state without this restriction, and then moved to Missouri and renewed your license here, Restriction A may or may not transfer depending on what your original state's record shows. When Missouri processes an out-of-state renewal, it typically honors the restrictions from your previous license.
What You Cannot Do With Restriction A
You cannot legally operate any vehicle with a manual transmission while Restriction A is on your license. This includes personal vehicles you own, rental cars, borrowed vehicles, or commercial vehicles. Law enforcement can cite you for driving a manual transmission vehicle in violation of your restriction.
The restriction applies to all manual transmission vehicles, regardless of size or type. A manual transmission motorcycle, truck, or compact car all fall under the same restriction. If you are caught driving a manual vehicle, you face a traffic violation that can result in a fine, points on your record, or both.
Rental car companies check your license restrictions before handing over keys. If you try to rent a manual transmission vehicle with Restriction A on your license, the company will refuse to rent to you. Some companies may not even offer manual vehicles anymore, but those that do will verify your license permits it.
How to Remove Restriction A From Your License
To remove Restriction A, you must schedule a driving test appointment with the Missouri Department of Revenue and pass the test in a manual transmission vehicle. You do not need to retake the written test or vision test—only the driving portion. The examiner will test you on the same road skills as the original test, but in a manual vehicle.
Contact your local Missouri license office to schedule the appointment. You will need to bring your current license, proof of insurance, and a manual transmission vehicle. The vehicle must be registered and insured in someone's name (yours or someone else's), and the owner or a licensed driver must accompany you if the vehicle is not registered to you.
The fee for a retest is the same as the fee for an initial driving test. As of the most recent update, Missouri charges a single fee for all driving tests, but confirm the current amount with your local office when you call to schedule. Once you pass the manual transmission test, the examiner removes Restriction A from your record when ready, and your new license card will be issued without the restriction.
Timeline and What to Expect at Your Appointment
Schedule your retest appointment at least one week in advance. Walk-in tests are not may provide, and many offices have long wait times. When you call, tell the office you are requesting a retest to remove Restriction A and that you will bring a manual transmission vehicle.
Arrive at your appointment 10 to 15 minutes early with your current license, proof of insurance, and the manual vehicle. The examiner will conduct a standard driving test, typically lasting 15 to 20 minutes. The test covers the same skills as your original test: lane changes, turns, parking, stopping, and response to traffic conditions.
If you pass, the examiner will process the restriction removal on the spot. You will receive a temporary license document valid for 30 days while your new physical card is printed and mailed to you. The new card will arrive within 7 to 10 business days and will show no Restriction A.
What Happens If You Fail the Manual Transmission Test
If you do not pass the manual transmission test on your first attempt, you can schedule another retest. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test. You will pay the test fee again for each attempt.
Between attempts, practice manual transmission driving with someone who is comfortable teaching you. Many driving schools in Missouri offer manual transmission instruction if you want professional help. Practicing on the same roads where your test will take place can also help you prepare.
Restriction A remains on your license until you pass the manual transmission test. You can continue driving automatic vehicles without penalty while you prepare for your retest.
Restriction A and Insurance, Employment, and Rentals
Your auto insurance company does not charge more or less based on Restriction A. The restriction is a licensing condition, not a safety rating. Your insurer cares about your driving record and claims history, not what transmission types you are licensed for.
Some employers who hire commercial drivers or delivery drivers may ask whether you have manual transmission restrictions. If the job requires driving manual vehicles, you would need to remove the restriction before being hired. Most standard jobs do not care about transmission restrictions.
Rental car companies will see Restriction A on your license when they scan it. If you want to rent a manual transmission vehicle, you must have the restriction removed first. Most rental companies have fewer manual vehicles available than they did 10 years ago, so this may not affect your ability to rent in practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive a manual transmission vehicle if I have Restriction A?
No. Driving a manual transmission vehicle with Restriction A on your license is a traffic violation. You are legally restricted to automatic transmission vehicles only. If you are caught, you can be cited and fined.
Do I have to remove Restriction A?
No. Restriction A is not a safety issue, and you do not have to remove it. If you never plan to drive a manual vehicle, you can keep the restriction on your license indefinitely. Removing it is optional and only necessary if you want to drive manual vehicles.
How much does it cost to remove Restriction A?
The cost is the same as a standard Missouri driving test. Contact your local license office for the current fee amount, as it may vary slightly. You pay only once, even if you need multiple attempts to pass the manual transmission test.
Will removing Restriction A affect my driving record or insurance?
No. Removing the restriction does not change your driving record or insurance rates. It is straightforward a notation on your license that you have demonstrated competency in manual transmission vehicles.
What if I move out of Missouri with Restriction A on my license?
When you transfer your license to another state, that state will see Restriction A on your Missouri record. Some states honor out-of-state restrictions, while others do not. Contact your new state's DMV to find out whether the restriction will transfer or whether you need to remove it before moving.