Code B is a medical restriction that limits when and where you can drive
A Code B restriction on your driver's license means you are only permitted to drive during daylight hours. The restriction appears as a code on your license and is legally binding — driving outside those hours violates the terms of your license, even if you are otherwise a safe driver.
Code B is issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or your state's equivalent licensing authority) when a medical examination or vision test shows you have a condition that affects your ability to drive safely in low-light conditions. This might include reduced night vision, cataracts, or certain eye conditions that make it harder to see in darkness.
The restriction is not a punishment. It is a safety measure that allows you to keep your driving privileges while protecting you and others on the road. You can still drive for work, errands, and personal reasons — just not after sunset or before sunrise.
Key Takeaways
- Code B means you can only drive during daylight hours, typically from sunrise to sunset.
- The restriction is issued when a medical exam or vision test shows you have reduced ability to see or drive safely in darkness.
- Violating a Code B restriction by driving at night is a traffic violation and can result in a ticket or license suspension.
- You can request a medical re-examination to have the restriction removed if your condition improves.
- Code B appears on your physical license and in the DMV's records, so law enforcement can see it during a traffic stop.
How Code B restrictions are issued
The DMV issues a Code B restriction after a medical professional or DMV examiner identifies a vision or medical condition that affects nighttime driving. This usually happens during a routine vision screening at the DMV, a medical re-examination ordered by the state, or when you renew your license and fail the vision portion of the test.
Common reasons for Code B include age-related vision changes, cataracts, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, or other conditions that reduce contrast sensitivity or peripheral vision in low light. The examiner does not need to diagnose a specific disease — they only need to determine that your ability to see and react safely at night is compromised compared to daytime driving.
Once the restriction is issued, it is printed on your license and recorded in the DMV system. You will receive notice of the restriction, usually in writing, explaining what it means and when it takes effect.
What you can and cannot do with Code B
With a Code B restriction, you can drive during daylight hours for any reason: commuting to work, running errands, medical appointments, or personal travel. The restriction does not limit where you can go or what you can do — only when you can drive.
You cannot legally drive between sunset and sunrise. This includes evening commutes, night shifts, driving home from social events, or any other nighttime travel. If you are stopped by law enforcement while driving at night with a Code B restriction, you can receive a traffic citation for violating the terms of your license.
If you need to drive at night regularly for work or other essential reasons, you will need to request a medical re-examination to have the restriction removed. straightforward ignoring the restriction or hoping not to be caught is not a legal option.
How to challenge or remove a Code B restriction
If you believe the restriction was issued in error or if your vision or medical condition has improved, you can request a medical re-examination through your state's DMV. Contact your local DMV office and ask for a vision re-test or medical re-evaluation. You may need to provide documentation from an eye doctor or physician stating that your condition has improved.
The process varies by state. Some states allow you to schedule a re-test at the DMV; others require you to submit a letter from an ophthalmologist or optometrist confirming that you meet the vision standards for unrestricted driving. A few states have specific forms you must complete and submit along with medical documentation.
If the re-examination shows that your vision or medical condition now meets the standard for unrestricted driving, the DMV will remove the Code B restriction and issue you a new license. This process typically takes two to four weeks, depending on your state and how quickly you can obtain the medical documentation.
Code B versus other license restrictions
Your license may carry other medical or safety restrictions in addition to or instead of Code B. Code A restricts you to driving with corrective lenses (glasses or contacts) and must be worn at all times while driving. Code D restricts you to an automatic transmission vehicle. Code E restricts you to vehicles with power steering.
Some states use different code systems or letter designations. The important thing is to check your license and understand every restriction printed on it. Violating any restriction — not just Code B — can result in a traffic citation and potential license suspension.
If you have multiple restrictions, they all explore at the same time. For example, if you have both Code A (corrective lenses) and Code B (daylight only), you must wear your glasses and only drive during daylight hours.
What happens if you drive with Code B at night
Driving at night with a Code B restriction is a traffic violation. If you are stopped by law enforcement, the officer can see the restriction on your license and issue you a citation. The specific penalty varies by state but typically includes a fine ranging from $100 to $500 and points added to your driving record.
A violation may also trigger a license suspension or require you to attend a driver safety course. If you accumulate multiple violations, your license could be suspended or revoked entirely. Additionally, if you are involved in an accident while driving in violation of a Code B restriction, your insurance company may deny your claim or use the violation as grounds to cancel your policy.
The safest and most legal approach is to respect the restriction and arrange alternative transportation for nighttime travel — carpooling, rideshare services, public transit, or asking someone else to drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Code B mean I cannot drive after 5 p.m.?
Code B typically means you cannot drive after sunset, not after a specific clock time. Sunset varies by season and location, so the exact time changes throughout the year. Some states provide a specific time window (like 30 minutes after sunset) to give drivers a clear rule to follow. Check your state's DMV website or your license documentation for the exact definition used in your state.
Can I get Code B removed by going to a different eye doctor?
No. The restriction is issued by the DMV based on a medical examination, and only the DMV can remove it. You will need to undergo a re-examination through the DMV or submit documentation from a licensed eye care professional showing that your vision now meets the standard for unrestricted driving. Shopping for a different doctor to get a different result will not change the legal restriction on your license.
What if I have Code B but my job requires me to drive at night?
You will need to request a medical re-examination to have the restriction removed. If your vision or medical condition does not meet the standard for unrestricted driving, you cannot legally drive at night for work. You may need to explore other job options, arrange for someone else to drive, or work with your employer to modify your schedule to daylight hours only.
Does Code B show up on my driving record when I explore for insurance?
Yes. Insurance companies can see all restrictions on your license, and Code B may affect your rates or coverage. Some insurers charge more for drivers with restrictions; others may require you to disclose the restriction when getting a quote. Be honest about the restriction when explore for or renewing insurance, as failing to disclose it could void your coverage.
Can I appeal a Code B restriction if I disagree with it?
You can request a re-examination, but you cannot formally appeal the DMV's medical information in most states. Your best option is to obtain an independent medical evaluation from an ophthalmologist or optometrist and submit that documentation to the DMV along with a request for re-testing. If the independent evaluation shows that your vision meets the standard for unrestricted driving, the DMV will likely remove the restriction.