How to read restriction codes on your North Carolina license
North Carolina prints restriction codes on your driver license as a series of letters in a box labeled "Restrictions" on the front of the card. These codes tell law enforcement and licensing officials what you are and are not permitted to do while driving. Each letter stands for a specific rule — for example, "B" means you must wear corrective lenses, and "E" means you cannot drive a commercial vehicle. The codes appear because of medical conditions you reported, violations on your record, or conditions the DMV set when they issued or renewed your license.
Understanding what your codes mean matters because driving in violation of a restriction can result in a traffic citation, points on your record, or license suspension. If you have restrictions you do not understand, the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can explain them, or you can look them up using the reference list below.
Key Takeaways
- Restriction codes are single letters printed on the front of your North Carolina driver license that limit how and where you can drive.
- Common codes include "B" for corrective lenses, "D" for automatic transmission only, and "E" for no commercial driving.
- You must follow all restrictions on your license or face citations and points.
- The North Carolina DMV website and your local DMV office can provide the full list of codes and what each one requires.
Common North Carolina restriction codes and what they mean
The most frequently seen codes are tied to physical or medical conditions. Code "B" requires you to wear glasses, contact lenses, or other corrective lenses whenever you drive. Code "C" means you must wear a hearing aid. Code "D" restricts you to driving vehicles with automatic transmission only. Code "F" means you cannot drive at night — your license is valid only during daylight hours.
Other codes relate to vehicle type and licensing class. Code "E" prohibits you from driving any commercial vehicle, even if you hold a commercial license. Code "I" means you are restricted to intrastate driving only — you cannot cross state lines. Code "L" limits you to driving vehicles without air brakes. Code "M" restricts you to motorcycles only if you hold a motorcycle endorsement.
Some codes address specific violations or conditions. Code "N" means you cannot drive for hire or operate a taxi or rideshare vehicle. Code "O" restricts you to vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device, which prevents the engine from starting if alcohol is detected on your breath. Code "P" means you must display a handicap placard or license plate.
Why the DMV assigns restriction codes
The DMV assigns restrictions based on information you provide during your license process or renewal, medical reports from your doctor, or violations recorded on your driving history. If you report a medical condition — such as poor vision, hearing loss, or a seizure disorder — the DMV may require a restriction to keep you and others safe. If you have been convicted of driving under the influence, the DMV will impose an ignition interlock restriction as a condition of license reinstatement.
Some restrictions are temporary and expire on a set date printed on your license. Others remain in place until you request removal and provide updated medical documentation or proof that the condition no longer applies. If you believe a restriction on your license is incorrect or no longer necessary, you can contact your local DMV office to request a review.
How to find the complete list of North Carolina restriction codes
The North Carolina DMV publishes the full list of restriction codes in their driver license manual, available on the DMV website at ncdmv.org. You can also call your local DMV office or visit in person to ask about a specific code on your license. DMV staff can explain what the restriction means and what you must do to comply with it.
If you need to remove a restriction, the process depends on the type of code. Medical restrictions typically require a letter from your doctor stating that the condition has improved or resolved. Restrictions tied to violations or convictions may require you to complete a program, pay a fee, or wait until a certain date before you can request removal.
What happens if you drive in violation of a restriction
Driving without following the restrictions on your license is a traffic violation. If you are stopped and an officer sees that you violated a restriction — for example, driving at night when code "F" prohibits it, or driving without corrective lenses when code "B" requires them — you can receive a citation. This violation adds points to your driving record and may result in a fine.
Repeated violations or serious breaches of restrictions can lead to license suspension or revocation. If you are involved in an accident while violating a restriction, your insurance claim may be denied, and you could face additional legal consequences. It is important to follow all codes on your license to protect your driving privileges and avoid penalties.
Requesting a restriction code change or removal
To remove or change a restriction, you must contact your local DMV office and provide documentation that supports the change. For medical restrictions, this usually means a letter from your doctor on official letterhead stating that you no longer have the condition or that it no longer affects your ability to drive safely. For restrictions tied to violations, you may need to show proof that you have completed a required program or that the restriction's expiration date has passed.
Some restrictions can be removed by mail; others require an in-person visit to the DMV. Call ahead to find out what documents you need and whether you can submit them by mail or must appear in person. Processing times vary, so plan ahead if you need the restriction removed before a specific date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive if I do not have my glasses and my license has a "B" restriction?
No. Code "B" means corrective lenses are required every time you drive. Driving without them is a violation. If you are stopped, you can receive a citation and points on your record. Always carry your glasses or contacts when you drive.
What does code "O" mean and how do I get it removed?
Code "O" requires an ignition interlock device on any vehicle you drive. This device prevents the engine from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath. It is typically imposed after a DUI conviction. You can request removal once you have met the required time period and paid any associated fees — ask your local DMV office for the exact timeline and process.
If my license expires, do the restrictions expire too?
Restrictions are tied to your license, so they expire when your license expires. However, if the restriction has its own expiration date printed separately, it may expire before your license does. Check your license carefully to see if any restrictions have an earlier date than your license expiration.
How do I know if a restriction on my license is temporary or permanent?
Look at your license card. If a restriction has an expiration date listed next to it, it is temporary and will expire on that date. If no date is listed, the restriction remains in place until you request removal and provide documentation that it should be lifted.
Can I appeal a restriction the DMV assigned to me?
Yes. If you disagree with a restriction, contact your local DMV office to request a review. You may need to provide medical documentation or other evidence to support your appeal. The DMV will review your case and notify you of the decision.