Texas driver's license restrictions limit what you can legally do behind the wheel
A restriction on your Texas driver's license is a condition that limits how, when, or where you can drive. The restriction appears as a code on the back of your license and tells law enforcement what you are and are not permitted to do. Common restrictions include requirements to wear corrective lenses, use an ignition interlock device, or drive only during daylight hours. Unlike a suspension or revocation, a restriction lets you keep your license — but only under the specified conditions.
Restrictions are imposed by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) based on your driving history, medical condition, age, or the outcome of a traffic violation or DWI case. They remain on your record until the court or DPS removes them, which may happen automatically after a set period or only if you request removal and meet certain conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Restrictions appear as letter codes on the back of your Texas license and specify conditions you must follow to drive legally.
- Common restrictions include corrective lenses, ignition interlock devices, daylight-only driving, and passenger or speed limits for young drivers.
- Violating a restriction can result in a traffic citation, fines, and additional license penalties.
- You can request removal of some restrictions through the DPS or by petitioning the court that imposed them, depending on the restriction type.
The most common Texas driver's license restrictions and what they mean
The Texas DPS uses letter codes to mark restrictions. Restriction B means you must wear corrective lenses (glasses or contacts) whenever you drive. Restriction D requires an ignition interlock device, which prevents your vehicle from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath — this is typically ordered after a DWI conviction. Restriction E limits you to daylight driving only, usually between sunrise and sunset.
Restriction J means you cannot drive on limited-access highways (interstates and major expressways). Restriction K restricts you to driving only for work, school, or court-ordered purposes — you cannot make personal trips. Restriction L limits the number of passengers you can carry, often used for drivers under 18. Young drivers may also receive Restriction V, which requires a valid vehicle inspection sticker, or restrictions on towing or commercial driving.
The code appears on the back of your physical license in the "Restrictions" field. If you have multiple restrictions, they will all be listed. You should review your license when you receive it to confirm the restrictions are correct.
Why Texas imposes restrictions instead of suspending your license
A restriction allows you to continue driving for essential purposes while protecting public safety. Suspending your license outright would prevent you from working, attending school, or handling court-ordered obligations. Restrictions target the specific risk — if you need corrective lenses, a lens restriction addresses that without taking away your license entirely. If you have a DWI conviction, an ignition interlock device monitors your sobriety while you drive.
Restrictions are also used to phase in driving privileges for young drivers. A 16-year-old with a learner's permit or intermediate license may have restrictions on when they can drive, how many passengers they can carry, and whether they can use a cell phone. These restrictions gradually loosen as the driver demonstrates responsibility, eventually disappearing when they reach 18 or meet other conditions.
How to find out what restrictions are on your license
The easiest way is to look at the physical card itself. Turn your license over and look for the "Restrictions" field on the back. The codes will be listed there. If you do not have your license in front of you, you can check online through the Texas DPS website by logging into your account or requesting a driving record.
You can also call the DPS at 1-888-589-6556 to ask about your restrictions. Have your driver's license number ready. If you received a restriction as part of a court order (such as after a DWI), the court paperwork should explain what the restriction means and how long it will remain in effect.
What happens if you violate a restriction
Driving in violation of a restriction is a traffic offense. If you are stopped and a police officer discovers you violated a restriction — for example, driving at night when you have a daylight-only restriction, or driving without the required corrective lenses — you can be cited. The penalty depends on the restriction and the officer's judgment, but typically results in a fine and a mark on your driving record.
A violation can also trigger additional penalties from the DPS, including extension of the restriction period, points on your license, or even suspension. If you have an ignition interlock restriction and the device records a violation (such as attempting to start the vehicle with alcohol detected), the violation is reported to the court and may result in criminal charges or extended probation.
How to request removal of a restriction
The process depends on the type of restriction and why it was imposed. Medical restrictions (such as corrective lenses or hearing aid requirements) can sometimes be removed by submitting a medical evaluation to the DPS. You will need to provide documentation from a doctor or specialist showing that the condition no longer exists or has been corrected.
Court-ordered restrictions (such as ignition interlock after a DWI) can only be removed by the court that imposed them. You must file a petition with that court, usually after serving a minimum portion of the restriction period. The court will review your petition and decide whether to remove the restriction early or let it expire on its scheduled date.
Age-related restrictions for young drivers are typically removed automatically when you reach the required age or after a set period without violations. Check your license or contact the DPS to confirm when your restrictions will expire.
If you believe a restriction was added to your license in error, contact the DPS directly with documentation supporting your claim. Errors are rare but do occur, and the DPS can correct them.
Restrictions versus suspensions and revocations
These three terms are often confused but mean different things. A restriction lets you keep your license but limits how you can use it. A suspension temporarily takes away your license entirely — you cannot drive at all until the suspension ends. A revocation cancels your license, and you must reapply and pass the written and driving tests again to get a new one.
Suspensions are typically shorter-term (weeks to months) and often result from administrative issues like unpaid traffic fines or failure to pay child support. Revocations are more serious and usually result from multiple DWI convictions, reckless driving, or other major violations. Restrictions fall between these two — they are less severe than suspension but still limit your driving rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with a restriction if I do not follow the condition?
No. A restriction is a legal requirement, not a suggestion. Driving in violation of a restriction is a traffic offense and can result in a citation, fine, and additional penalties. For example, if you have a corrective lens restriction and drive without glasses, you are breaking the law.
How long do restrictions stay on my license?
It depends on the restriction type. Age-related restrictions for young drivers typically expire at 18 or after a set period. Court-ordered restrictions like ignition interlock may last one to three years. Medical restrictions may be permanent unless the condition changes. Check your court paperwork or contact the DPS to find out when your specific restriction expires.
Can I get a restriction removed before it expires?
Sometimes. Medical restrictions can be removed with a doctor's letter. Court-ordered restrictions require a petition to the court. Age-related restrictions cannot usually be removed early. Contact the DPS or the court that imposed the restriction to learn what options are available for your situation.
Do restrictions show up on my driving record when I explore for insurance?
Yes. Insurance companies can see your driving record, including restrictions. Some restrictions, particularly ignition interlock, may increase your insurance rates or affect your ability to get coverage. Contact your insurance company to ask how a specific restriction will affect your policy.
What if I move out of Texas — do my restrictions follow me?
If you get a license in another state, that state will issue its own license based on your driving history. Texas restrictions do not automatically transfer, but your Texas driving record — including the reason for the restriction — will be visible to the new state. The new state may impose its own restrictions based on that history.