RSTR is a restriction code that limits how or where you can drive
RSTR on your driver's license means you have a restriction — a rule about the conditions under which you're allowed to drive. It's not a suspension or revocation. You can still drive, but only in the way the restriction allows. The specific restriction appears as a code on your license, and you must follow it or risk a ticket, points on your record, or license suspension.
The exact restriction depends on why it was added. Common RSTR codes limit you to daytime driving only, require you to wear corrective lenses, restrict you to vehicles with automatic transmission, or confine you to driving for work purposes only. Some states use letter codes (like "B" or "D"), while others spell out the restriction in words. Your license document will show what yours means.
Restrictions are different from suspensions or revocations. A suspension is temporary — your license is taken away for a set period. A revocation is permanent unless you go through a formal reinstatement process. A restriction lets you keep your license but with conditions attached.
Key Takeaways
- RSTR means you can drive, but only under specific conditions shown on your license — ignoring the restriction can result in a ticket or suspension.
- Common restrictions include daylight-only driving, corrective lenses required, automatic transmission only, or work-related driving only.
- Restrictions are added by the DMV or court based on medical exams, vision tests, age, or conviction history.
- You can request removal of a restriction by contacting your state DMV, though some require a medical exam or waiting period first.
Why restrictions get added to your license
The DMV or a court adds restrictions when they determine you can drive safely only under certain conditions. Vision problems are the most common reason — if your eyesight doesn't meet the standard without glasses or contacts, you'll get a corrective lenses restriction. Age-related restrictions are common too: some states restrict 16-year-old drivers to daytime driving or require them to have a supervising adult in the car.
Medical conditions can trigger restrictions as well. If you have a condition that affects your ability to operate a vehicle — epilepsy, narcolepsy, or severe hearing loss — the DMV may restrict you to automatic transmission vehicles, daytime driving, or vehicles with hand controls. A court can also impose restrictions as part of a sentence for a DUI or reckless driving conviction.
Some restrictions are temporary and expire on a set date. Others stay on your license until you request removal and meet the conditions to have it lifted — usually passing a new vision test, medical exam, or waiting out a required period.
Common restriction codes and what they mean
Different states use different codes, so the exact letters or numbers on your license depend on where you live. However, the restrictions themselves are fairly standard across the country.
| Restriction Type | What It Means | How It's Enforced |
|---|---|---|
| Corrective lenses | You must wear glasses or contacts while driving | Officer can ticket you if you're stopped and not wearing them |
| Daylight only | You can drive only between sunrise and sunset | Ticket if caught driving after dark |
| Automatic transmission | You can only drive vehicles with automatic transmission | Ticket if caught driving a manual transmission vehicle |
| Work-related only | You can drive only to and from work or for work purposes | Officer can ask where you're going; ticket if not work-related |
| Hearing aid required | You must wear a hearing aid while driving | Ticket if stopped and not wearing it |
| Passenger restrictions | You cannot carry passengers (or can carry only family) | Ticket if stopped with unauthorized passengers |
Your license document will show the code and usually a brief explanation. If you're unsure what your restriction means, contact your state DMV — they can tell you exactly what you're allowed to do.
How restrictions affect your driving and insurance
A restriction on your license doesn't change your legal status as a driver, but it does change what you're allowed to do behind the wheel. Violating a restriction — driving at night when you're restricted to daylight, or driving without your corrective lenses — is a traffic violation. You can be ticketed, fined, and have points added to your driving record. Repeated violations can lead to license suspension.
Insurance companies can see restrictions on your license. Some restrictions, like corrective lenses, don't usually affect your rates because they're safety measures you're already following. Others, like work-related-only restrictions, may signal to an insurer that you have limited driving history or a specific reason for the restriction, which could affect how they price your policy. If a restriction was added because of a medical condition or conviction, your rates may already be higher for other reasons.
When you shop for insurance, be honest about any restrictions on your license. If you don't disclose them and then file a claim, the insurer could deny coverage if they discover you were violating the restriction at the time of the accident.
How to request removal of a restriction
The process for removing a restriction depends on why it was added and what your state requires. Start by contacting your state DMV — they can tell you whether the restriction is temporary (and will expire automatically) or permanent (and requires action from you).
For vision-related restrictions, you'll usually need to pass a new vision test at the DMV. Bring your glasses or contacts if you use them, and be prepared to read the eye chart. If you pass, the restriction can be removed on the spot or within a few days.
For medical restrictions, the DMV may require a signed statement from your doctor confirming that your condition no longer affects your ability to drive safely. Some states require a formal medical evaluation form, which you can get from the DMV website. Submit the form to the DMV, and they'll review it — approval usually takes one to four weeks.
For age-related restrictions, they typically expire automatically on your birthday or after a set period. Check your license to see the expiration date, or call the DMV to confirm.
For restrictions added by a court (such as those tied to a DUI conviction), you may need to petition the court to have them lifted. This usually requires showing that you've completed any required programs, paid fines, and maintained a clean driving record for a set period. An attorney can help with this process, though many courts have forms you can file yourself.
What happens if you ignore a restriction
Driving in violation of a restriction is a traffic violation, not a criminal offense in most cases. However, the consequences can be serious. You can be ticketed and fined — the amount varies by state and the specific restriction, but fines typically range from $50 to $500. Points will be added to your driving record, which can raise your insurance rates and count toward license suspension.
If you accumulate too many points in a short period, your license can be suspended. For example, if you're caught driving at night when restricted to daylight driving, and then caught again a few months later, a second violation could trigger a suspension. Once suspended, you'll need to pay a reinstatement fee and may need to retake a test before you can drive again.
If you were in an accident while violating a restriction, your insurance company could deny your claim. They could also drop your coverage or refuse to renew your policy. This is why it's important to follow restrictions — they're not suggestions, and violations have real costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive without following my restriction?
No. A restriction is a legal requirement, not optional. Driving in violation of it is a traffic violation and can result in a ticket, fine, points on your record, and potential license suspension. If you're in an accident while violating a restriction, your insurance may deny your claim.
Will a restriction on my license affect my insurance rates?
Most restrictions themselves don't raise rates — corrective lenses, for example, is a safety measure. However, if the restriction was added because of a medical condition or conviction, those underlying reasons may already be affecting your rates. Always disclose restrictions to your insurer when getting a quote.
How long does a restriction stay on my license?
It depends on the type. Some restrictions expire automatically on a set date (check your license). Others are permanent until you request removal and meet the conditions — usually passing a vision test or submitting a doctor's letter. Contact your state DMV to find out whether your restriction is temporary or permanent.
What if I need to drive outside my restriction for an emergency?
Restrictions explore in all situations, including emergencies. If you're restricted to daylight driving and there's a medical emergency at night, call 911 instead of driving yourself. If you must drive, you're still violating the restriction, and you could be ticketed. The emergency may be a mitigating factor in court, but it doesn't erase the violation.
Can I get a restriction removed before the expiration date?
Yes, if you meet the conditions. For vision restrictions, pass a new vision test. For medical restrictions, submit a doctor's letter. For age-related restrictions, you typically must wait until the expiration date. Contact your DMV to ask what's required for your specific restriction.