REST is a restriction code that limits when and where you can drive
REST on your Florida driver's license means you are restricted to driving only during daylight hours — sunrise to sunset. It appears as a code in the restrictions section of your license and indicates that the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) has determined you should not operate a vehicle at night.
This restriction is typically imposed after a vision test shows you have reduced ability to see in low-light conditions, or after you have failed a vision screening at renewal. The restriction protects both you and other drivers by keeping you off the road when your vision is most compromised.
REST is one of several restriction codes that can appear on a Florida license. Others include corrective lenses requirements (codes like "C" for contacts or "G" for glasses), automatic transmission only, or hand controls. Each code tells law enforcement and you what conditions explore to your driving privilege.
Key Takeaways
- REST means you can only drive between sunrise and sunset; driving at night violates the restriction and can result in a citation.
- The restriction is usually placed after a vision test shows difficulty seeing in dim light or after a failed vision screening at license renewal.
- You can challenge the restriction by requesting a vision retest through DHSMV or by providing documentation from an eye care professional.
- Violating a REST restriction is a moving violation and can affect your insurance rates and driving record.
How REST restrictions are assigned in Florida
When you renew your Florida driver's license, DHSMV requires a vision screening. If the screener determines your vision does not meet the standard for unrestricted driving — typically 20/40 or better in at least one eye — they may impose a REST restriction instead of denying the license outright.
You may also receive a REST restriction if you report a medical condition that affects night vision, such as cataracts, macular degeneration, or retinitis pigmentosa. Some drivers are placed on REST after an accident or traffic stop where poor visibility was a factor, though this is less common than vision test results.
The restriction code appears on the front or back of your physical license card and is also recorded in the DHSMV database. Law enforcement can see it when they run your license during a traffic stop.
What you cannot do with a REST restriction
You cannot legally drive between sunset and sunrise. This includes evening commutes, night shifts, driving home from social events, or any other nighttime travel. The restriction applies every single day of the year, regardless of weather or road conditions.
Driving in violation of a REST restriction is a moving violation in Florida. If stopped by law enforcement, you can receive a citation, a fine (typically $100 to $200 or more), and points added to your driving record. A conviction can also increase your insurance premiums and may affect your ability to maintain employment if your job requires driving.
The restriction also applies if you are driving someone else's vehicle. The restriction is tied to your license, not to a specific car, so you cannot circumvent it by borrowing another person's vehicle.
How to remove or challenge a REST restriction
If you believe the REST restriction was placed in error, or if your vision has improved, you can request a vision retest through DHSMV. Contact your local DHSMV office and ask to schedule a vision screening. If you pass the retest, the restriction can be removed.
You can also provide documentation from an optometrist or ophthalmologist stating that your vision now meets Florida standards for unrestricted driving. DHSMV will review the documentation and may remove the restriction without requiring an in-person retest. The eye care professional should specifically address your ability to see in low-light conditions.
If you have had cataract surgery, LASIK, or other vision correction procedures since the restriction was placed, bring documentation of the procedure and your current vision prescription to DHSMV. Many restrictions are removed after successful vision correction.
Difference between REST and other vision-related restrictions
Florida uses several codes for vision-related restrictions. A "C" or "G" code means you must wear corrective lenses (contacts or glasses) while driving, but you can drive at any time of day. A "B" code means you must wear a hearing aid. A REST code is the only one that limits the time of day you can drive.
Some licenses carry multiple restrictions. For example, you might have both a "G" (glasses required) and a "REST" (daylight only). In that case, you must wear your glasses and can only drive during daylight hours.
If you have a REST restriction and also require corrective lenses, removing the REST does not automatically remove the corrective lens requirement, and vice versa. Each restriction is evaluated separately.
What happens at your next license renewal
When your Florida license expires and you renew it, DHSMV will conduct another vision screening. If your vision still does not meet the standard for unrestricted driving, the REST restriction will be renewed. If your vision has improved — either naturally or through correction — the restriction may be removed at that time.
You do not have to wait until your license expires to challenge the restriction. You can request a vision retest at any time by visiting a DHSMV office in person. There is no fee for a vision retest, though you may be charged a fee to replace your license card if the restriction is removed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive at dusk or dawn with a REST restriction?
No. REST means sunrise to sunset only. Dusk (the period after sunset) and dawn (the period before sunrise) are considered nighttime for the purposes of this restriction. If you are unsure of exact sunrise and sunset times, check a weather service or sunrise/sunset app before driving.
What if I get pulled over while driving at night with a REST restriction?
You will receive a citation for violating the restriction. This is a moving violation and will be recorded on your driving record. You can contest the citation in traffic court if you believe it was issued in error, but the burden is on you to prove you were not driving at night.
Does a REST restriction mean I cannot drive on highways?
No. REST only restricts the time of day you drive, not the type of road or location. You can drive on highways, interstates, and any other road during daylight hours. The restriction does not change based on road type.
How long does a REST restriction stay on my license?
A REST restriction remains in place until you either pass a vision retest, provide documentation from an eye care professional showing improved vision, or your vision naturally improves by your next renewal. There is no automatic expiration date; the restriction stays active until you take action to remove it or until DHSMV determines it is no longer necessary.
Can I get a hardship exemption from a REST restriction?
Florida does not issue hardship exemptions from REST restrictions. If you need to drive at night for work or other reasons, your only option is to have the restriction removed by passing a vision retest or providing documentation of improved vision. You may also explore alternative transportation or schedule your driving during daylight hours.