What a "B" Restriction on Your Driver's License Means

A "B" restriction on your driver's license means you must wear corrective lenses — glasses or contact lenses — whenever you drive. The restriction is printed on your license as a condition of your driving privilege. If you drive without the corrective lenses you are required to wear, you are driving in violation of your license restrictions, which can result in a traffic citation even if your vision is otherwise legal.

The "B" stands for vision correction. It appears on the front or back of your physical license card and is one of the most common restrictions issued by state motor vehicle departments. The restriction exists because your uncorrected vision does not meet the minimum standard your state requires for safe driving, but your corrected vision does.

Different states use different codes — some use "B," others use "01" or "corrective lenses" spelled out — but the requirement is the same across all states that issue it. If you move to another state, you will need to transfer your license and the restriction will carry over or be re-evaluated based on that state's vision standards.

Key Takeaways

  • A "B" restriction requires you to wear glasses or contact lenses every time you drive, and driving without them is a traffic violation.
  • The restriction is issued because your uncorrected vision fails your state's minimum standard, but your corrected vision meets it.
  • You can request a vision test to have the restriction removed if your eyesight has improved since your license was issued.
  • Ignoring a "B" restriction can result in a traffic ticket, points on your driving record, and higher insurance rates.
  • If you wear bifocals or progressive lenses, some states may add a secondary restriction limiting night driving or highway speeds.

How States Determine Vision Requirements for Driving

Each state sets its own minimum vision standard, usually measured as visual acuity — how clearly you can see at a specific distance. Most states require 20/40 vision or better in at least one eye, though some require 20/30. If your uncorrected vision is worse than your state's standard but corrective lenses bring you to the required level, you receive a "B" restriction instead of being denied a license.

The vision test happens at your state's motor vehicle department when you renew or first obtain your license. An examiner uses a standard eye chart or digital vision screener. If you fail the uncorrected test but pass the corrected test, the restriction is added to your license on the spot. You do not need a prescription from an eye doctor to get a license — the department's own test is sufficient.

Some states also test peripheral vision and color blindness, though these are less common grounds for restrictions. A few states require annual vision recertification for drivers over a certain age, which can result in new restrictions or removal of existing ones.

Removing a "B" Restriction Through Vision Testing

If your eyesight has improved or you believe the restriction was issued in error, you can request a new vision test at your state's motor vehicle department. The process is straightforward: visit your local office, ask to take a vision test, and pay any required fee — usually between $10 and $30. If you pass the uncorrected vision test, the restriction will be removed from your license.

You do not need a letter from an eye doctor to request the test, though having one can speed the process. Some states allow you to bring your own eye doctor's recent vision report, which the examiner may accept in place of their own test. Call your state's motor vehicle department ahead of time to ask what documentation they accept.

The new license with the restriction removed is typically issued on the same day if you pass, or mailed to you within one to two weeks depending on your state's process. If you fail the uncorrected test again, the restriction remains and you will need to wait before requesting another test — most states require a waiting period of three to six months.

What Happens If You Drive Without Your Corrective Lenses

Driving without the corrective lenses required by your "B" restriction is a traffic violation in all states. The penalty varies by state but typically includes a fine ranging from $50 to $300, and points added to your driving record. In some states, a second or third violation can result in license suspension.

The violation is separate from any accident or unsafe driving that might occur. Even if you drive perfectly and cause no harm, an officer can cite you solely for violating the restriction if they observe you driving without glasses or contacts. Some states treat this as a moving violation, which affects your insurance rates; others treat it as a non-moving violation with less impact on insurance.

If you are stopped and do not have your corrective lenses with you, you may be asked to exit the vehicle or not drive further. Some officers will allow you to call someone to bring your glasses; others will issue a citation and may impound your vehicle depending on the circumstances and your state's law.

Secondary Restrictions That Often Accompany Vision Corrections

Some states add a secondary restriction alongside the "B" if your corrected vision is borderline or if you wear bifocals or progressive lenses. Common secondary restrictions include a prohibition on night driving, a speed limit restriction (usually 45 mph or lower), or a requirement to drive only on familiar roads or during daylight hours.

These restrictions are less common than the basic "B" but are used in states that take a more cautious approach to drivers with significant vision correction needs. If you have a secondary restriction, it will be listed on your license along with the "B." You must follow both restrictions or face a traffic violation.

Secondary restrictions can sometimes be removed through the same vision test process as the primary "B" restriction. If your vision improves or if you switch to a different type of corrective lens, you can request a new test to see if the secondary restriction can be lifted.

How a "B" Restriction Affects Insurance and Driving Records

A "B" restriction itself does not increase your insurance rates — the restriction is straightforward a condition of your license. However, if you receive a traffic citation for driving without your corrective lenses, that violation will be reported to your insurance company and will likely increase your premiums.

The violation appears on your driving record, which insurance companies review when setting rates or deciding whether to renew your policy. A single violation may result in a modest increase; multiple violations can lead to higher rates or non-renewal. Some insurers are more lenient than others, so shopping around after a violation can help you find better rates.

Your driving record is public information that can be obtained by employers, landlords, and others depending on your state's laws. A violation for ignoring a "B" restriction will appear on that record for three to five years depending on your state.

Transferring a "B" Restriction to Another State

If you move to another state and transfer your driver's license, your "B" restriction will carry over initially. However, the new state may re-evaluate your vision using its own standards. If the new state's minimum vision requirement is lower than your current state's, the restriction might be removed. If it is higher, the restriction will remain or a new one may be added.

When you transfer your license, you will typically be required to take a vision test as part of the renewal process. The new state's examiner will test your uncorrected vision first. If you pass, the restriction is removed. If you fail, the "B" restriction is added to your new license.

Some states allow you to transfer your license by mail or online without taking a new vision test, in which case your restriction transfers as-is. Other states require an in-person visit and a new test. Check your new state's motor vehicle department website to learn what is required for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with contact lenses if I have a "B" restriction?

Yes. The "B" restriction requires corrective lenses — either glasses or contacts. As long as your vision is corrected to the required standard, you are in compliance. If you wear contacts, make sure you have a backup pair of glasses in your vehicle in case a contact falls out while driving.

What if I forgot my glasses at home and got pulled over?

You can be cited for violating your license restriction. The officer may allow you to call someone to bring your glasses, or may issue a citation and ask you not to drive further. The citation will appear on your record and may increase your insurance rates. If this happens, contact your state's motor vehicle department to understand your options for fighting the citation.

Do I need a doctor's note to remove a "B" restriction?

No. You can request a vision test at your state's motor vehicle department at any time. If you pass the uncorrected vision test, the restriction is removed. A letter from your eye doctor can help speed the process, but it is not required — the department's own test is sufficient.

Will a "B" restriction prevent me from getting a commercial driver's license?

A "B" restriction on a regular license does not automatically disqualify you from a commercial license, but commercial vision standards are stricter. You will need to pass a vision test for the commercial license. If you cannot meet the higher standard without correction, you may receive a "B" restriction on your commercial license as well, or you may be denied the commercial license entirely.

How long does a "B" restriction stay on my license?

A "B" restriction remains on your license until you request a vision test and pass the uncorrected vision portion, or until your state removes it during a renewal. There is no automatic expiration date. You can request a new test at any time if you believe your vision has improved.