Restriction B limits you to driving only vehicles with an automatic transmission
Restriction B on a Texas driver's license means you are legally restricted to operating only automatic transmission vehicles. You cannot drive a manual (stick shift) transmission vehicle while this restriction is on your license. The restriction appears on your physical license card and in the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) database.
This restriction is placed on your license record when you pass your driving test in an automatic transmission vehicle. It reflects the vehicle type you used during your exam — not a punishment or medical limitation, but a notation that you have not demonstrated competency with a manual transmission.
If you drive a manual transmission vehicle while Restriction B is active, you are driving outside the scope of your license. This can result in a traffic citation, insurance complications, and potential license suspension.
Key Takeaways
- Restriction B means your license is valid only for automatic transmission vehicles, not manual transmissions.
- The restriction is placed on your license based on the transmission type of the vehicle you used during your driving test.
- Driving a manual transmission vehicle with Restriction B on your license is a violation and can result in a citation.
- You can remove Restriction B by taking a new driving test in a manual transmission vehicle at a Texas DPS office.
How Restriction B gets placed on your license
When you take your driving test at a Texas DPS office, you bring a vehicle to use for the exam. The examiner notes the transmission type of that vehicle. If it is an automatic transmission, Restriction B is added to your license at issuance.
This happens regardless of whether you own a manual transmission vehicle or have driven one before. The restriction is based solely on what vehicle you presented for testing, not on your actual driving history or capability.
Restriction B appears on your license card under the restrictions section and is recorded in the DPS system. Any law enforcement officer who runs your license will see it.
Removing Restriction B from your license
To remove Restriction B, you must take a new driving test using a manual transmission vehicle. You do not need to retake the written test — only the behind-the-wheel driving exam.
Schedule an appointment at your local Texas DPS office. Bring a manual transmission vehicle, proof of identity, proof of residency, and your current driver's license. The examiner will conduct a standard driving test in that vehicle. If you pass, Restriction B is removed from your license when ready or within a few business days, depending on the office.
The cost is the same as a standard driving test. You pay the DPS exam fee at the time of your appointment. There is no separate fee to remove a restriction.
What happens if you drive a manual transmission with Restriction B
Driving a manual transmission vehicle while Restriction B is on your license is a traffic violation in Texas. An officer who stops you and discovers the violation can issue a citation.
The citation is typically classified as a minor traffic offense, but it goes on your driving record. This can affect your insurance rates and may contribute to license suspension if you accumulate other violations.
Additionally, if you are involved in an accident while driving outside the scope of your license restriction, your insurance company may deny a claim or use the violation as grounds to cancel your policy.
Restriction B and vehicle rentals or borrowed vehicles
If you rent a car or borrow a vehicle, you must may support it has an automatic transmission if Restriction B is on your license. Rental companies do not always verify restrictions before handing over keys, so it is your responsibility to confirm the transmission type before driving off the lot.
If you rent a manual transmission vehicle by mistake, you should not drive it. Return it to the rental company and request an automatic transmission vehicle instead. Driving it would violate your license restriction.
Restriction B and commercial driving
Restriction B applies only to regular driver's licenses (Class C). If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) or are pursuing one, different rules explore. CDL testing and restrictions are handled separately by the DPS and follow federal regulations.
If you have a regular Class C license with Restriction B and later obtain a CDL, you should clarify with the DPS whether the restriction carries over or applies only to your Class C driving privileges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get Restriction B removed without taking a new driving test?
No. The only way to remove Restriction B is to pass a driving test in a manual transmission vehicle. There is no waiver or administrative process to remove it without testing.
Does Restriction B affect my ability to renew my license?
No. When you renew your license, Restriction B remains on it unless you have already removed it by passing a manual transmission test. Renewal does not change restrictions.
What if I learned to drive manual after getting my license with Restriction B?
Learning to drive manual on your own time does not remove the restriction. You must formally pass a DPS driving test in a manual transmission vehicle to have it removed from your license record.
Can I appeal or dispute Restriction B?
Restriction B is not a penalty or error — it is a factual record of the vehicle type you used during your test. There is no appeal process. Your only option is to take a new test in a manual transmission vehicle.