Driver license codes are letters and numbers printed on your license that describe what vehicles you can legally drive and any restrictions on how you drive them
Every state prints codes on the front or back of your driver license. These codes tell law enforcement and insurance companies what you are permitted to operate. A code might mean you can drive a motorcycle, or that you must wear corrective lenses, or that you cannot drive a commercial vehicle. If you drive a vehicle type your license does not permit, you can be cited for driving without proper licensing — even if you have a valid license in your wallet.
The codes themselves vary by state. A code that means "automatic transmission only" in one state might not appear on licenses in another state at all. Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles publishes the full list of codes used on licenses issued there. You can find your state's code guide on the DMV website, usually under a section titled "License Classes" or "Endorsements and Restrictions."
Key Takeaways
- Driver license codes are printed on your physical license and describe what vehicles you can drive and what restrictions explore to you.
- Codes fall into three categories: class codes (what vehicle type), endorsement codes (additional permissions), and restriction codes (limitations on your driving).
- Each state maintains its own list of codes, so the same letter or number means different things depending on where your license was issued.
- You can find your state's complete code guide on the state DMV website, usually in the section about license classes or endorsements.
Class codes: what type of vehicle you can drive
Class codes are the foundation of your license. They tell you what category of vehicle you are permitted to operate. Most states use letters — Class A, B, C, D — though some use numbers or combinations. A Class D license typically covers standard passenger cars and light trucks. A Class A or B license usually means you can drive heavier commercial vehicles, which requires additional training and testing.
If your license shows only a Class D code, you cannot legally drive a motorcycle, a bus, or a vehicle over a certain weight limit, even if you think you know how. Driving outside your class is a moving violation and can result in a fine, points on your record, and insurance consequences. When you renew your license or want to drive a different vehicle type, you must pass the written test and road test for that class.
Endorsement codes: permissions you have earned
Endorsement codes are letters or numbers that add permissions to your license. They mean you have passed additional testing for a specific skill. The most common endorsement is "M" for motorcycle — you cannot legally ride a motorcycle unless your license shows an M endorsement, even if you have a valid Class D license for cars.
Other endorsements vary by state but often include "H" for hazardous materials (required to haul certain cargo), "P" for passenger vehicles (required to drive a bus or van carrying passengers for hire), and "T" for tractor-trailer combinations. Each endorsement requires you to pass a written test specific to that vehicle type or cargo, and some require a road test as well. You can add endorsements to your existing license without replacing your class code.
Restriction codes: limitations on your driving
Restriction codes are letters or numbers that limit how or when you can drive, even though your license is valid. These are printed on your license to alert you and law enforcement to conditions you must follow. Common restrictions include "B" for corrective lenses (you must wear glasses or contacts), "D" for daylight driving only, and "E" for automatic transmission only.
Some restrictions are permanent — if you have a vision correction requirement, that restriction will appear on every license you renew. Others are temporary, such as a restriction that expires on a specific date. You are legally required to follow every restriction on your license. Driving in violation of a restriction — for example, driving at night when your license says daylight only — is a moving violation and can result in a citation even if you were not speeding or breaking any other traffic law.
How to read the codes on your physical license
Open your license and look at the front and back. Most states print class codes prominently near your name or photo. Endorsements and restrictions are usually listed in a separate section, often labeled "Endorsements" and "Restrictions" or abbreviated as "Endorse" and "Restrict." Some states print them as a single line of letters and numbers; others use a table format.
If you cannot find the codes or do not understand what they mean, your state DMV website has a decoder. Search for your state name plus "driver license codes" or "license endorsements and restrictions." You can also call your state DMV and ask them to explain the codes on your specific license. Write down what each code means so you have it for reference — you may need to show this information to an insurance company or when renting a vehicle.
Why insurance companies and rental companies care about your codes
Insurance companies check your license codes when you buy a policy. If you tell them you drive a motorcycle but your license does not show an M endorsement, they may deny a claim or cancel your policy. Rental car companies also verify your codes before handing you keys. If you rent a vehicle type your license does not permit, the rental agreement is void and you are driving illegally.
This matters because if you are in an accident while driving a vehicle your license does not permit, your insurance will not cover the damage. You will be personally liable for all costs, and you will face a citation for driving without proper licensing. Always check your license codes before renting a vehicle or buying insurance coverage for a new vehicle type.
What to do if your codes are wrong or missing
If you believe your license shows incorrect codes — for example, you have a restriction you should not have, or you are missing an endorsement you earned — contact your state DMV. You will need to bring your license and proof of the correct status. If you earned an endorsement and it was not added, bring the test results or documentation showing you passed. If you have a restriction that should have expired, bring proof of the date it expired.
Correcting codes usually requires visiting a DMV office in person, though some states allow you to request a correction by mail. The process typically takes one to two weeks. Do not assume the codes will be corrected automatically when you renew — verify them before your renewal appointment so you can bring the necessary documents with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive a vehicle type my license does not permit if I have a valid license?
No. A valid license only permits you to drive the vehicle types and classes shown on it. Driving outside your class or without a required endorsement is a moving violation, even if your license is not expired. You will face a citation and potential insurance consequences.
Do I need to pass a test to add an endorsement to my license?
Yes. Each endorsement requires you to pass a written test specific to that vehicle type or cargo. Some endorsements also require a road test. You cannot add an endorsement without testing, and you cannot transfer an endorsement from an old license to a new one — you must test again.
What happens if I drive at night when my license says daylight only?
You can be cited for violating a license restriction, which is a moving violation. This citation is separate from any other traffic violation and will appear on your driving record. Your insurance company may also use it as grounds to raise your rates or cancel your policy.
Can I remove a restriction from my license?
It depends on the restriction. Temporary restrictions expire on their own and are removed when you renew. Permanent restrictions, like a vision correction requirement, remain on every license you renew unless the underlying condition changes. Contact your state DMV to learn whether a specific restriction can be removed and what documentation you need to provide.
Do license codes transfer if I move to a new state?
No. When you get a license in a new state, you receive a new license with that state's codes and format. Your old state's codes do not transfer. You will need to pass the written test and road test for your new state's license class, though many states waive certain tests if you have a valid license from another state.