A G restriction limits you to driving only vehicles with an automatic transmission
A G restriction on your Texas driver's license means you are legally permitted to drive only automatic-transmission vehicles. If you have this restriction and drive a manual-transmission vehicle, you are driving without the proper license classification and can be cited for it, even if you are otherwise a safe driver.
The restriction appears on your license as a code. When a police officer runs your license during a traffic stop, it shows up in their system. Some people receive a G restriction when they first get their license because they took their driving test in an automatic vehicle. Others have it added later if they request it or if it is required by their insurance company.
Texas does not have a separate license class for automatic-only driving — the G restriction is straightforward a notation on your standard Class C (passenger vehicle) license. It does not affect your ability to drive cars, SUVs, or pickup trucks, as long as they have automatic transmissions.
Key Takeaways
- A G restriction means your Texas license permits only automatic-transmission vehicles, and driving a manual transmission vehicle with this restriction is a violation.
- The restriction appears as a code on your license and shows up when law enforcement checks your record.
- You can remove a G restriction by passing a driving test in a manual-transmission vehicle at a Texas Department of Public Safety office.
- Some insurance companies may require or recommend a G restriction if you took your driving test in an automatic vehicle.
- The restriction does not affect your ability to drive most everyday vehicles, since most cars and trucks sold in Texas have automatic transmissions.
How you get a G restriction in the first place
Most commonly, you receive a G restriction when you take your driving test in an automatic-transmission vehicle. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) places the restriction on your license to match the type of vehicle you demonstrated competency in. If you learned to drive in an automatic car and took your test in one, the examiner will note that on your test results, and the restriction will appear on your license when it is issued.
A G restriction can also be added to an existing license if you request it — for example, if you want to limit yourself to automatic vehicles for safety or comfort reasons. Some drivers also receive the restriction because their insurance company requires it as a condition of coverage, though this is less common in Texas than in some other states.
The restriction is not a mark against you or a penalty. It is straightforward a way for the state to document what type of transmission you were tested on and what you are therefore authorized to operate.
Removing a G restriction from your license
To remove a G restriction, you must pass a driving test in a manual-transmission vehicle at a Texas DPS office. You do not need to take a written test or a vision test — only the driving portion. The examiner will evaluate your ability to operate a manual transmission safely, including starting the vehicle, shifting gears smoothly, and managing the clutch in various driving conditions.
You will need to bring a manual-transmission vehicle to the test. This can be your own car, a friend's or family member's vehicle, or a rental. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. You will also need to bring your current driver's license, proof of insurance, and proof of vehicle registration.
Once you pass the test, the examiner will submit the results to DPS, and your license will be updated to remove the G restriction. You can typically drive away from the test location with your updated license, though the official license card in the mail may take one to two weeks to arrive. Until then, your old license with the restriction is still valid for identification purposes, but you are now legally permitted to drive manual-transmission vehicles.
What happens if you drive a manual transmission vehicle with a G restriction
Driving a manual-transmission vehicle when your license has a G restriction is a violation of your license restrictions. If a police officer stops you and discovers the violation, you can be cited. The citation is typically for driving in violation of license restrictions, which is a traffic offense in Texas.
The consequences depend on the officer's discretion and whether you have prior violations. In many cases, a first offense results in a warning or a ticket with a fine. Repeated violations can lead to higher fines, points on your driving record, or a license suspension. The violation also becomes part of your driving history and may affect your insurance rates.
The best approach is to know what type of transmission your license permits and stick to vehicles that match that restriction. If you regularly need to drive manual-transmission vehicles, removing the restriction by taking the test is straightforward and permanent.
G restrictions and insurance
Some insurance companies ask about transmission type when you get a quote or renew your policy. If you took your driving test in an automatic vehicle, your insurer may ask whether you want a G restriction added to your policy terms. This is different from the restriction on your license — it is a voluntary agreement between you and your insurance company.
Having a G restriction on your insurance policy does not automatically put one on your license. However, if your insurance requires the restriction and you violate it by driving a manual vehicle, you may be in breach of your policy. This could affect a claim if you are in an accident.
If you are unsure whether your insurance policy includes any transmission-related restrictions, contact your agent or review your policy documents. The restriction, if present, will be listed in the coverage details.
The difference between a G restriction and other license codes
Texas driver's licenses can have several types of restrictions and endorsements, and it is straightforward to confuse them. A G restriction is only about transmission type. Other common codes include corrective lenses (you must wear glasses or contacts), hearing aid (you must wear a hearing aid), and automatic transmission with power steering. Some restrictions limit the hours you can drive or the roads you can use.
If your license has multiple restrictions, each one is separate and you must follow all of them. For example, if you have both a G restriction and a corrective lenses restriction, you must wear your glasses and drive only automatic vehicles. You can remove restrictions one at a time by meeting the requirements for each one.
You can see all restrictions and endorsements on your license by looking at the front and back of the card. The codes are listed in small print, often with a legend explaining what each code means. If you are unsure what a code means, you can contact your local DPS office or check the Texas DPS website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove a G restriction online or by mail?
No. You must take a driving test in person at a Texas DPS office in a manual-transmission vehicle. There is no online or mail-in option. You can schedule an appointment at your local DPS office to take the test at a time that works for you.
Do I have to pay a fee to remove the G restriction?
Yes. You will pay the standard driving test fee, which varies by location but is typically around $15 to $25. You may also need to pay a fee to update your license if you want the new version mailed to you when ready, though this is optional.
What if I fail the manual transmission driving test?
You can take the test again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. You will need to pay the test fee each time. Many people find it helpful to practice manual transmission driving with a friend or family member before scheduling the test.
Does a G restriction affect my ability to get a commercial driver's license?
A G restriction on your regular license does not prevent you from getting a commercial driver's license (CDL). However, if you take your CDL test in an automatic vehicle, you may receive a similar restriction on your CDL. The requirements and process are separate for commercial licenses.
Will removing the G restriction change my insurance rates?
Removing the restriction itself should not change your rates. However, if your insurance company has a policy that requires the restriction and you remove it, you should notify your agent. Some insurers may adjust your coverage or rates based on the change, though this varies by company.