Restriction codes are letters or numbers printed on your driver's license that limit how or when you can drive
A restriction code appears in a specific box on your license and tells law enforcement—and you—that your driving privileges come with conditions. Common codes include "B" (corrective lenses required), "D" (daylight driving only), and "M" (manual transmission only). Some codes are medical in nature; others are legal consequences. The code itself is just a shorthand; the actual rule is defined by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent agency.
Restriction codes are not the same as license suspension or revocation. You still hold a valid license, but you must follow the restriction or you can be cited for a violation. Ignoring a restriction—for example, driving at night when your license says daylight only—is treated as driving without proper authorization and can result in a ticket, points on your record, or license suspension.
Each state uses its own code system, so a code that means one thing in California may mean something different in Texas. If you move states or rent a car in another state, you need to know what your codes mean under your home state's rules.
Key Takeaways
- Restriction codes are letters or numbers on your license that set conditions for when, where, or how you can drive.
- Common codes cover vision correction, vehicle type, time of day, and medical or legal conditions.
- Violating a restriction is a traffic offense and can result in points, fines, or license suspension.
- Each state defines its own codes, so you must check your state's DMV website or handbook to learn what your specific codes mean.
- You can request removal of a restriction if the underlying condition changes—for example, if you have eye surgery and no longer need glasses.
Common restriction codes and what they require
The codes you see most often fall into a few categories. Vision-related codes (often "B" or "C") mean you must wear corrective lenses—glasses or contacts—every time you drive. If you have this code and drive without them, you are breaking the law even if you feel fine. Some states add a code if you have limited peripheral vision or need a special mirror.
Time-of-day codes (often "D" or "N") restrict you to daylight driving only or prohibit night driving. These are common for older drivers or those with certain medical conditions affecting night vision. A "D" code means you cannot legally drive between sunset and sunrise; driving outside those hours is a violation.
Vehicle-type codes (often "M") mean you can only drive a manual transmission vehicle, not an automatic. This is rare but appears when a driver has a physical limitation that requires manual control. An "E" code sometimes means automatic transmission only—the opposite restriction.
Hearing-related codes appear in some states for drivers who are deaf or hard of hearing and may require a special mirror or other equipment. Medical codes can also reflect conditions like seizure disorders or require the driver to carry medication or a medical alert card while driving.
How restriction codes get added to your license
Most restrictions are added during the license renewal or initial issuance process. When you renew, the DMV reviews your medical history, vision test results, and any reported conditions. If the examiner notes that you need glasses, a code is added automatically. If you report a medical condition on your renewal form, the DMV may require a medical evaluation before issuing the new license.
Restrictions can also be imposed as part of a court order. If you are convicted of certain traffic offenses or DUI-related charges, the court may order the DMV to add restrictions to your license as a condition of reinstatement. For example, an ignition interlock device code means you must use a breathalyzer-equipped device to start your vehicle.
Some restrictions are temporary. A code added because you failed a vision test may be removed once you pass a new test with corrective lenses. Others are permanent unless you formally request removal and provide documentation that the underlying condition no longer exists.
Finding out what your specific codes mean
Your license itself usually does not explain what each code means—it just shows the letter or number. The best source is your state's DMV handbook or website. Most state DMV sites have a section titled "License Codes" or "Restriction Codes" with a full table matching each code to its meaning. You can also call your local DMV office and ask them to read your codes to you and explain what each one requires.
If you received a new license in the mail and do not recognize a code, do not ignore it. Contact the DMV before you drive to confirm what it means. Driving under a misunderstood restriction can result in a ticket even if you did not intend to violate it.
Some states print a legend on the back of the license or include it in the envelope with your new license. Check both before you assume you know what a code means, especially if you have moved or renewed after a long time.
Removing or changing a restriction code
To remove a restriction, you typically need to show that the underlying reason no longer applies. If you have a vision code and have had corrective eye surgery, you can request a new vision test at the DMV. If you pass without needing correction, the code is removed. If you have a daylight-only code due to a medical condition and that condition has been treated, you can ask the DMV what documentation they need—usually a letter from your doctor stating you are safe to drive at night.
The process varies by state. Some DMVs allow you to request a new test or evaluation in person or by mail. Others require you to renew your license before codes can be reviewed. A few states require a formal hearing or medical review board decision before removing a restriction, especially if it was court-ordered.
Do not assume a restriction will expire on its own. Most codes remain on your license until you actively request removal. If the code was added by court order, you may need to petition the court to have it lifted, not just the DMV.
What happens if you drive in violation of a restriction
Driving in violation of a restriction is a traffic violation in every state. An officer who stops you and sees that you violated a code can issue a citation. The penalty varies: some states treat it as a minor infraction with a fine, while others add points to your driving record or suspend your license.
For example, if you have a "B" code (corrective lenses required) and are stopped without glasses, you may receive a ticket for "driving without corrective lenses" or similar wording. This is separate from any other violation that led to the stop. If you have a daylight-only code and are driving at night, the violation is "driving in violation of license restrictions."
Repeated violations of the same restriction can lead to license suspension or revocation. A single violation may not result in suspension, but it will be recorded on your driving history and can affect insurance rates or future license renewal decisions.
Restriction codes versus endorsements and suspensions
Restriction codes are different from endorsements, which are special permissions added to your license. An endorsement (often marked with an "E" or similar) means you are allowed to do something extra—like drive a motorcycle or commercial vehicle. A restriction means you are not allowed to do something or must do it under specific conditions.
Restrictions are also different from a suspended or revoked license. A suspended license means you cannot drive at all for a set period. A revoked license means your driving privileges have been permanently taken away (though you can sometimes reapply after a waiting period). A restricted license means you can still drive, but only under the stated conditions.
If your license has been suspended or revoked, no restriction codes appear on it because the license itself is not valid. Once the suspension ends or you are reinstated, restrictions may be added as part of the reinstatement process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive someone else's car if I have a manual transmission restriction?
No. A manual transmission restriction means you can only drive manual vehicles, period. If you drive an automatic, you are violating the restriction regardless of whose car it is. The restriction applies to you, not to specific vehicles you own.
What if I get pulled over and forgot my glasses but have a vision correction code?
You can be cited for driving without corrective lenses. The officer does not need to see you fail a vision test; the code on your license is proof that correction is required. You should always carry your glasses or contacts when driving if you have this code.
Do restriction codes show up on my driving record when I explore for insurance?
Yes. Insurance companies can see your license codes and driving record. Some codes may not affect your rates, but others—especially medical or court-ordered restrictions—can influence how an insurer views your risk and what they charge you.
Can I request a restriction be added to my license?
Generally, no. Restrictions are imposed by the DMV or court based on test results, medical conditions, or legal orders. You cannot voluntarily add one. However, if you want to limit your own driving for safety reasons, you can choose not to drive under certain conditions even if your license does not require it.
If I move to another state, do my restriction codes transfer?
Your old license codes do not automatically transfer. When you get a new license in your new state, the DMV will review your vision, medical history, and driving record. They may add new codes based on their own system and requirements, or they may not add any codes at all. You need to go through the full licensing process in your new state.