A restriction code limits what you can do while driving, not whether you can drive

A restriction on your Texas driver's license is a condition that limits how or when you can drive. It appears as a letter code on the front or back of your license and means you must follow that rule every time you get behind the wheel. Unlike a suspension or revocation, a restriction lets you keep your license — but only under certain conditions.

The most common restriction is Restriction B, which means you must wear corrective lenses (glasses or contacts) while driving. Other restrictions might require you to use an ignition interlock device, drive only during daylight hours, or use an automatic transmission vehicle. If you drive without following your restriction, you can be cited for a violation even if you're otherwise driving legally.

Restrictions are added to your license for different reasons: some come from your medical history, some from your driving record, and some from the type of license you hold. Understanding what your restriction means and why it's there helps you stay legal and safe on the road.

Key Takeaways

  • A restriction code on your Texas license is a condition you must follow every time you drive, shown as a letter (like B, D, or E) on your license card.
  • Restriction B (corrective lenses) is the most common and means you must wear glasses or contacts while driving.
  • Other restrictions may require an ignition interlock device, daylight-only driving, or an automatic transmission vehicle.
  • Violating a restriction can result in a traffic citation even if you are otherwise driving safely and legally.
  • You can request removal of a restriction through the Texas Department of Public Safety if circumstances change, such as vision correction or completion of a required program.

Common Restriction Codes and What They Mean

Texas uses letter codes to identify restrictions. Restriction B requires corrective lenses and is by far the most common — it's added when your vision test shows you need glasses or contacts to drive safely. Restriction D requires an ignition interlock device, a machine that tests your breath for alcohol before the engine will start. This restriction is typically ordered after a DWI conviction.

Restriction E limits you to automatic transmission vehicles only, usually given to drivers with physical disabilities that make manual transmission unsafe. Restriction F restricts you to daylight driving only (typically sunrise to sunset), sometimes given to older drivers or those with certain vision conditions. Restriction H means you must wear a hearing aid while driving, added when your hearing test shows you need one.

Less common restrictions include Restriction L (which limits you to vehicles with power steering and power brakes) and Restriction M (which requires an outside mirror on the left side of the vehicle). Your license card will show which restrictions explore to you, and the Texas Department of Public Safety website lists the full set of codes if you want to understand any restriction not listed here.

How Restrictions Get Added to Your License

Restrictions are added during the licensing process, usually based on information you provide or tests you take. When you take your vision test at the Department of Public Safety office, if you need corrective lenses to read the eye chart clearly, Restriction B is automatically added to your license. You don't have to request it — it's a safety requirement.

Other restrictions come from your driving history or court orders. If you're convicted of DWI, the court may order an ignition interlock device, which triggers Restriction D on your license. If you report a physical disability on your license process, the examiner may add a restriction like E (automatic only) or L (power steering and brakes). Some restrictions also come from medical reports — for example, if your doctor reports that you have a hearing condition, the Department of Public Safety may add Restriction H.

When you renew your license, existing restrictions usually carry over unless you request removal and meet the requirements to have them lifted. The Department of Public Safety will notify you if a restriction is being added or removed during renewal.

Driving With a Restriction: What You Must Do

If you have a restriction, you must follow it every single time you drive. This is not optional, and police officers can cite you for violating a restriction just as they would for speeding or running a red light. The violation goes on your driving record and can affect your insurance rates.

For Restriction B (corrective lenses), you must have your glasses or contacts with you and wear them whenever you're driving. For Restriction D (ignition interlock), you must use the device as installed — it will prevent your car from starting if you don't blow into it or if it detects alcohol. For Restriction E (automatic transmission), you cannot drive a manual transmission vehicle, even if you know how. For Restriction F (daylight only), you cannot drive after sunset or before sunrise, regardless of the reason.

If you forget your restriction or lose your license, you should not drive. Carry your license with you so an officer can see your restriction if you're pulled over. If you're unsure whether you can do something (like drive a rental car with a manual transmission), contact the Department of Public Safety before you drive.

Removing a Restriction From Your License

Some restrictions can be removed if your situation changes. The process depends on the type of restriction. For Restriction B (corrective lenses), you can request removal if you've had vision correction surgery (like LASIK) and your vision now meets the standard without glasses or contacts. You'll need to pass a new vision test at the Department of Public Safety office.

For Restriction D (ignition interlock), removal depends on your court order. Most DWI sentences require the device for a set period — typically six months to two years. Once that period ends and you've complied with all requirements, you can petition the court to remove the restriction, and the Department of Public Safety will update your license once the court order is lifted.

For other restrictions like E, F, H, or L, removal usually requires medical documentation showing your condition has improved or changed. For example, if you have Restriction F (daylight only) due to a vision condition, you may be able to have it removed if your eye doctor confirms your vision has improved. Contact the Department of Public Safety to ask what documentation you need for your specific restriction.

Restrictions vs. Suspensions and Revocations

It's important to understand the difference between a restriction and a suspension or revocation, because they are very different consequences. A restriction lets you keep your license and drive, but only under certain conditions. A suspension temporarily takes away your driving privilege — you cannot drive at all until the suspension period ends and you meet any reinstatement requirements. A revocation is permanent removal of your license, and you must reapply and pass all tests again to get a new one.

Suspensions and revocations typically result from serious violations like multiple DWI convictions, driving with a suspended license, or accumulating too many points on your driving record. A restriction, by contrast, is a condition that allows you to drive safely given your circumstances. If you're unsure whether you have a restriction, suspension, or revocation, you can check your driving record through the Texas Department of Public Safety website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive without my glasses if I have Restriction B?

No. Restriction B means you must wear corrective lenses every time you drive. Driving without them is a violation, even if you think you can see well enough. Always carry your glasses or contacts with you when you drive.

What happens if I get pulled over and I'm violating my restriction?

You can be cited for violating the restriction, which is a traffic violation. It goes on your driving record, may result in a fine, and can increase your insurance rates. Repeated violations can lead to license suspension.

Do I have to tell my insurance company about my restriction?

You should check your insurance policy. Some restrictions (like ignition interlock) may affect your rates or coverage. It's best to inform your insurer so there are no issues if you need to file a claim.

Can I remove a restriction myself, or do I have to go through the Department of Public Safety?

You cannot remove a restriction yourself. You must contact the Department of Public Safety, provide any required documentation (like a new vision test or medical report), and meet the criteria for removal. The department will update your license once you may have access to.

If I move to another state, does my Texas restriction transfer?

Your Texas restriction applies only to your Texas license. When you get a license in another state, that state will conduct its own tests and set its own restrictions based on your condition at that time. You'll need to inform the new state of any medical or physical conditions that might result in restrictions.