Restriction B is a limit on when and where you can drive
Restriction B on a Texas driver's license means you can only drive during daylight hours — from sunrise to sunset. You cannot drive at night, and you cannot drive during twilight periods when visibility is reduced. This restriction appears on your license as a code and is legally binding; driving outside those hours is a violation, even if you feel capable of driving safely.
Restriction B is most commonly placed on new drivers who have not yet completed their full licensing progression, or on drivers whose vision or medical condition makes nighttime driving unsafe. Texas uses letter codes to mark restrictions, and B specifically targets time-of-day limits.
Key Takeaways
- Restriction B limits you to driving only between sunrise and sunset; driving before dawn or after dusk is illegal under this restriction.
- New drivers under 18 often receive Restriction B during their first license period to build experience in daylight conditions.
- Drivers with vision problems or certain medical conditions may have Restriction B placed on their license by the Department of Public Safety.
- You can request removal of Restriction B once you meet the requirements — usually by completing a waiting period or passing a vision test.
- Violating Restriction B by driving at night can result in a traffic citation and points on your driving record.
Who gets Restriction B and why
Texas places Restriction B on drivers in two main situations. The first is new drivers under 18 who hold a Class D license (the standard passenger vehicle license for teenagers). During the first six months of holding an unrestricted Class D license, drivers under 18 are limited to daylight driving as part of the graduated licensing system. This gives new drivers time to build experience in conditions where visibility is best and distractions are fewer.
The second group includes drivers of any age whose vision or medical condition makes nighttime driving unsafe. If you have a vision test result that shows reduced night vision, or if you report a medical condition that affects your ability to see in low light, the Department of Public Safety may place Restriction B on your license. This protects both you and other drivers on the road.
How Restriction B appears on your license
When you receive your physical Texas driver's license, Restriction B will be printed on the back in the "Restrictions" section. It will appear as the letter "B" followed by a description: "Daylight driving only" or similar language. Law enforcement can see this restriction when ready when they scan or read your license during a traffic stop.
If you receive a temporary license (a paper document issued while your plastic card is being made), the restriction will be noted there as well. You are responsible for knowing what restrictions are on your license and following them from the moment you receive the license.
How long Restriction B stays on your license
The length of time you carry Restriction B depends on why you received it. If you are a new driver under 18, Restriction B typically remains for six months from the date you received your unrestricted Class D license. After that period, the restriction is automatically removed when you renew or when you request removal at a Texas Department of Public Safety office.
If Restriction B was placed on your license because of a vision or medical issue, it may remain until you pass a new vision test or provide updated medical documentation showing the condition has improved. You can contact your local DPS office to ask what specific requirement you need to meet for removal.
Removing Restriction B from your license
To remove Restriction B, you must first confirm which requirement applies to you. If you are a new driver and the six-month period has passed, you can visit any Texas Department of Public Safety office and request that the restriction be removed. Bring your current license and be prepared to pay a fee for the license update (fees vary but are typically under $30).
If Restriction B is on your license due to vision or medical reasons, you will need to pass a vision test administered by DPS or provide a letter from your eye doctor or physician stating that the condition no longer prevents safe nighttime driving. Once you have passed the test or submitted the medical documentation, you can request removal at a DPS office.
You cannot remove Restriction B by straightforward ignoring it or by claiming you did not know it was there. Driving in violation of the restriction is a traffic offense and can result in a citation.
What happens if you drive with Restriction B at night
Driving outside the daylight hours while Restriction B is on your license is a traffic violation in Texas. If a police officer stops you for driving at night, they will see the restriction on your license and can issue you a citation. The violation typically results in a fine and points added to your driving record, which can increase your insurance rates.
A violation also becomes part of your driving history and may affect your ability to remove the restriction quickly or to progress through the licensing system if you are a new driver. If you are under 18 and receive a citation for violating Restriction B, it may delay your path to full licensure.
Other common Texas driver's license restrictions
Restriction B is one of several codes Texas uses to mark license conditions. Restriction A requires corrective lenses (glasses or contacts) while driving. Restriction C requires an automatic transmission vehicle. Restriction D limits you to vehicles with power steering. Other restrictions address specific medical conditions, vehicle types, or monitoring requirements.
Your license may carry more than one restriction. For example, you might have both Restriction A (corrective lenses) and Restriction B (daylight driving only). Each restriction is independent, and you must follow all of them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive during twilight or early morning with Restriction B?
No. Restriction B means sunrise to sunset only. Twilight periods — before sunrise and after sunset — are not permitted. If you are unsure of exact sunrise and sunset times, check a weather app or online resource for your location on the day you plan to drive.
Do I need to carry proof of my restriction, or is it enough that it's on my license?
The restriction on your physical license is all the proof you need. Law enforcement will see it when they check your license. You do not need to carry a separate document or letter explaining the restriction.
If I'm a new driver and my six months are almost up, can I request early removal of Restriction B?
No. Restriction B on a new driver's license is automatic and remains for the full six-month period. You cannot request early removal. Once the six months have passed, you can visit a DPS office to have it removed.
What if I have a medical condition that causes Restriction B, but I feel I can drive safely at night?
Your personal assessment does not override the restriction. If you believe your condition has improved, you must have a vision test or obtain medical documentation from your doctor stating the condition no longer affects your nighttime driving ability. Only then can you request removal through DPS.
Will Restriction B show up on my driving record when I explore for insurance?
Yes. Insurance companies can see restrictions on your license. Restriction B itself typically does not increase your rates, but violations of the restriction will appear on your record and may affect your insurance costs.