Restriction B is a condition on your license that limits where or how you can drive
Restriction B means you can only drive vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. You cannot legally operate a manual (stick shift) vehicle while this restriction is on your license. The restriction appears on your license document itself, usually in a box labeled "Restrictions" or "Conditions," and law enforcement can see it during a traffic stop.
This restriction is typically placed on your license when you pass your driving test in an automatic vehicle, or when you request it during your initial license process. Some states add it automatically if you took your road test in an automatic. The restriction stays on your license until you remove it by passing a driving test in a manual transmission vehicle.
Key Takeaways
- Restriction B means you can only legally drive automatic transmission vehicles; driving a manual vehicle violates the restriction.
- The restriction appears on your physical license document and is visible to police officers during traffic stops.
- You can remove Restriction B by scheduling a road test in a manual transmission vehicle and passing it.
- Driving a manual vehicle with Restriction B on your license can result in a traffic citation and insurance complications.
- The process to remove the restriction varies by state but generally involves contacting your local DMV or licensing office.
How Restriction B gets placed on your license
Most commonly, Restriction B appears on your license because you took your driving test in an automatic transmission vehicle. When you pass your road test in an automatic, the examiner notes this, and the restriction is added to your license as a condition of your driving privilege. This is standard practice in most states.
You may also request Restriction B yourself during your initial license process if you know you will only drive automatic vehicles. Some people choose this option to simplify their testing process or because they have no experience with manual transmissions. Once the restriction is on your license, it remains there unless you take action to remove it.
What happens if you drive a manual vehicle with Restriction B
Driving a manual transmission vehicle while Restriction B is on your license is a traffic violation. If a police officer stops you and discovers the restriction, you can receive a citation. The severity of the citation varies by state — some treat it as a minor infraction, while others may classify it more seriously.
Beyond the citation itself, driving with a restriction violation can create problems with your insurance. Your insurer may deny a claim if you were in an accident while violating the restriction, or they may increase your rates. The violation also goes on your driving record, which affects your insurance history and can impact future coverage.
How to remove Restriction B from your license
To remove Restriction B, you must pass a road test in a manual transmission vehicle. Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent licensing agency to schedule a driving test. You will need to bring a manual transmission vehicle to the test — either your own or one you borrow.
The road test for removing a restriction is typically shorter than a full driving test and focuses on your ability to operate the manual transmission safely. The examiner will evaluate your clutch control, gear shifting, and overall vehicle handling. Once you pass, the restriction is removed from your license, usually within a few days to a week depending on your state's processing time.
Some states allow you to remove the restriction by mail or online if you provide proof that you have passed a test elsewhere, but most require you to test in person with their examiner. Check your state's DMV website for the specific process and any fees involved — most states charge a small fee to retest or update your license.
Restriction B versus other common license restrictions
Driver licenses can carry several types of restrictions, and Restriction B is one of the most common. Other restrictions might limit you to daytime driving only, require corrective lenses, or restrict you to vehicles with hand controls. Each restriction addresses a specific condition or skill level.
Restriction B is unique because it is purely about transmission type — it does not reflect a safety concern or medical condition the way other restrictions do. You can remove it straightforward by demonstrating you can drive a manual vehicle, whereas some other restrictions (like vision-related ones) may be permanent or require medical clearance to remove.
State differences in how Restriction B is handled
While Restriction B exists in most states, the exact rules and terminology vary. Some states call it "Restriction B," while others may use different labels or codes. The process for removing it, the fees involved, and whether you can test with a borrowed vehicle all depend on your state's specific regulations.
A few states have begun phasing out Restriction B as manual transmissions become less common in new vehicles. However, most states still use it as standard practice. If you are unsure about your state's specific rules, contact your local DMV office or check their website — they can tell you exactly what the restriction means in your state and what steps to take if you want to remove it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive someone else's automatic car if I have Restriction B?
Yes. Restriction B only prohibits manual transmission vehicles. You can legally drive any automatic transmission vehicle, whether it belongs to you or someone else, as long as you have a valid license and the vehicle owner's permission.
Do I have to remove Restriction B if I never plan to drive a manual car?
No. If you only drive automatic vehicles, there is no requirement to remove the restriction. It will remain on your license indefinitely unless you choose to remove it. However, removing it gives you the legal option to drive a manual vehicle if the situation ever arises.
How much does it cost to remove Restriction B?
Most states charge a small fee to retest or update your license after removing a restriction — typically between $10 and $50 — but the exact amount varies by state. Contact your DMV to find out the fee in your area before you schedule your test.
Can I remove Restriction B without taking a road test?
In most states, no — you must pass a road test in a manual transmission vehicle. A few states may accept proof of a test taken elsewhere, but you should contact your DMV directly to ask about alternatives in your state.
Will removing Restriction B affect my insurance rates?
Removing the restriction itself should not affect your rates. However, if you were cited for violating the restriction before removing it, that citation remains on your driving record and could impact your rates until it ages off.