WV is a restriction code that means you must wear corrective lenses while driving

The letters WV on a New Jersey driver's license stand for "Wear corrective lenses." It is a restriction placed on your license by the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) based on your vision test results during the licensing process. If you see WV on your license, you are legally required to wear glasses or contact lenses every time you drive, whether you are on a local road or the highway.

This restriction appears on your license card itself, usually in a section labeled "Restrictions" or "Endorsements." It is not a violation or a mark against your driving record — it is a safety measure that the MVC uses to may support you can see the road clearly while operating a vehicle. Driving without the required corrective lenses when WV is on your license can result in a traffic citation and fines.

Key Takeaways

  • WV means you must wear glasses or contact lenses every time you drive in New Jersey.
  • The restriction is added after your vision screening at the MVC shows you need correction to meet the legal standard.
  • Driving without corrective lenses when WV is on your license is a violation and can result in a fine.
  • You can have the restriction removed by passing a vision test without correction or by getting a new vision test that shows you no longer need lenses.

How the MVC adds the WV restriction during licensing

When you explore for a New Jersey driver's license or renew an existing one, the MVC requires a vision screening as part of the process. During this screening, you read an eye chart or use a vision machine to demonstrate that you can see clearly enough to drive safely. The legal standard in New Jersey is that you must be able to see at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without correction.

If you cannot meet that standard without glasses or contacts, the MVC adds the WV restriction to your license. This tells law enforcement and you that corrective lenses are a condition of your driving privilege. The restriction stays on your license until you either renew it and pass a vision test without correction, or you request a new vision screening and demonstrate that your vision has improved.

What happens if you drive without corrective lenses when WV is on your license

Driving without the corrective lenses required by the WV restriction is a traffic violation in New Jersey. If a police officer stops you and sees WV on your license but you are not wearing glasses or contacts, you can be cited. The violation is typically classified as a minor offense, but it carries a fine and may result in points on your driving record depending on the circumstances and the officer's discretion.

Beyond the legal consequence, driving without the correction you need puts you and others at risk. The MVC placed the restriction on your license because your vision test showed you need correction to see the road, traffic signs, and hazards clearly. Ignoring the restriction increases the chance of an accident.

How to remove the WV restriction from your license

You can have the WV restriction removed in two ways. The first is to renew your license and pass a new vision screening without corrective lenses. If your vision has improved naturally or through surgery, you may now meet the 20/40 standard without glasses or contacts. When you renew, the MVC will conduct a new vision test, and if you pass without correction, the WV restriction will not appear on your new license.

The second way is to request a vision retest at an MVC office before your license expires. You can call the MVC or visit a local office to schedule a vision screening. If you pass the test without correction, the MVC will issue you a new license without the WV restriction. This option is useful if your vision has improved and you do not want to wait until your renewal date.

Other common restriction codes on New Jersey licenses

WV is one of several restriction codes the MVC uses on driver's licenses. CV means "Corrective lenses in vehicle," which requires you to keep your glasses or contacts in the car at all times, even if you are not wearing them while driving — a less common restriction. DB stands for "Daylight driving only," which limits you to driving during daylight hours. HR means "Hearing impaired," which is informational and does not restrict your driving.

Other codes relate to vehicle type, such as M for motorcycle or H for hazardous materials. The restrictions and endorsements on your license are specific to your circumstances and the results of your testing at the MVC. If you are unsure what any code on your license means, you can contact the MVC directly or check the back of your license card, where many codes are listed.

What to do if you think the WV restriction was added in error

If you believe the WV restriction was placed on your license incorrectly — for example, if you passed your vision test without correction but the restriction still appears — you can request a review. Contact your local MVC office and explain the situation. You may be asked to take another vision screening to verify your results.

Keep in mind that vision test results can vary slightly depending on the equipment used and the conditions on the day of the test. If you are close to the 20/40 threshold, the MVC may have added the restriction as a precaution. A follow-up test can clarify whether the restriction is necessary. If the new test confirms you do not need correction, the MVC will issue a corrected license without the WV code.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with contacts instead of glasses if WV is on my license?

Yes. The WV restriction requires corrective lenses, which includes both glasses and contact lenses. As long as you are wearing one or the other while driving, you are in compliance with the restriction. Many people with WV on their license choose contacts because they offer a wider field of vision while driving.

Will the WV restriction affect my insurance rates?

No. Insurance companies do not charge higher premiums based on vision restrictions alone. However, if you receive a traffic citation for driving without the required corrective lenses, that violation could affect your rates because it is a moving violation on your record.

Do I need to tell my employer if WV is on my license?

If your job involves driving — such as delivery, rideshare, or commercial driving — you may need to disclose the restriction to your employer. Some employers require drivers to report all license restrictions. Check your employee handbook or ask your HR department about their policy.

What if I lose my glasses while driving?

If you lose or break your glasses while driving, you should pull over safely and stop driving until you can get a replacement or switch to contacts. Continuing to drive without the correction required by WV is a violation. Keep a backup pair of glasses in your car if possible.