Endorsement A is a restriction that limits what you can drive
Endorsement A on a Florida driver's license means you are restricted to driving automatic transmission vehicles only. You cannot legally operate a manual transmission (stick shift) car, truck, or motorcycle. The state adds this restriction when you pass your driving test in an automatic vehicle, or when you request it.
This endorsement appears as a code on your license and is enforced the same way other restrictions are — a police officer can cite you for driving a manual transmission vehicle if you have Endorsement A. Insurance companies may also ask about it when you file a claim, since driving outside your license restrictions can affect coverage.
The restriction stays on your license until you remove it by passing a driving test in a manual transmission vehicle and requesting the removal through the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV).
Key Takeaways
- Endorsement A restricts you to automatic transmission vehicles only and appears as a code on your Florida license.
- The restriction is added when you pass your driving test in an automatic car or when you request it during license renewal.
- You can remove Endorsement A by passing a driving test in a manual transmission vehicle and submitting a request to DHSMV.
- Driving a manual transmission vehicle with Endorsement A on your license is a violation and can result in a citation.
How Endorsement A gets added to your license
If you take your driving test in an automatic transmission vehicle, DHSMV will automatically add Endorsement A to your license. You do not have to request it — the restriction is placed based on what vehicle you used during the test.
You can also request Endorsement A yourself during a license renewal or at any DHSMV office, even if you originally tested in a manual vehicle. Some drivers do this intentionally if they know they will only drive automatics and want to make that clear on their record.
The endorsement does not affect your ability to renew your license or get a duplicate. It straightforward stays on your record until you take action to remove it.
Removing Endorsement A from your Florida license
To remove Endorsement A, you must pass a driving test in a manual transmission vehicle. This means scheduling a road test appointment with DHSMV and bringing a manual car to the test site. The examiner will evaluate your ability to operate the clutch, shift gears, and control the vehicle safely.
After you pass, you submit a request to DHSMV to remove the endorsement from your license. You can do this at any DHSMV office or by mail. The removal is usually processed within a few weeks, and you will receive an updated license in the mail.
There is no fee to remove Endorsement A, but you will need to pay for the road test itself if DHSMV charges for retesting in your county. Some counties include the test as part of a license renewal, while others charge separately.
Endorsement A versus other Florida license restrictions
Florida uses several endorsement codes on driver's licenses, and they work differently. Endorsement A is a restriction — it limits what you can drive. Other codes like Endorsement E (for motorcycle operation) or Endorsement F (for school bus operation) are permissions that allow you to drive something you otherwise could not.
Restrictions like Endorsement A, Endorsement B (corrective lenses required), and Endorsement D (hearing aid required) all appear on your license and must be followed. Violations can result in citations. Permissions like Endorsement E require separate testing and training but do not restrict your regular driving.
You can have multiple endorsements and restrictions on the same license. For example, you might have Endorsement A (automatic only) and Endorsement B (corrective lenses required) at the same time.
What happens if you drive a manual car with Endorsement A
Driving a manual transmission vehicle when your license has Endorsement A is a violation of Florida law. A police officer can pull you over and cite you for driving outside the scope of your license restrictions. The citation is typically a non-criminal traffic violation, but it goes on your driving record.
The violation can affect your insurance rates and may count against you if you are stopped for another reason. If you are involved in an accident while driving a manual vehicle with Endorsement A, your insurance company may deny your claim or reduce coverage, since you were operating outside your license restrictions.
If you regularly need to drive a manual transmission vehicle, removing the endorsement is the straightforward solution. The cost and time of a road test is much lower than the cost of a citation or insurance complications.
Checking your license for Endorsement A
Your Florida driver's license shows Endorsement A in the restrictions section, usually printed on the back or in a designated area depending on your license design. If you are unsure whether you have it, you can check your physical license or view your license information through the DHSMV website using your driver's license number and date of birth.
You can also call your local DHSMV office or visit in person to ask about your license restrictions. They can print a copy of your driving record, which lists all endorsements and restrictions in detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive a manual transmission car if I have Endorsement A?
No. Endorsement A restricts you to automatic transmission vehicles only. Driving a manual car with this endorsement is a violation and can result in a citation. You must remove the endorsement by passing a road test in a manual vehicle before you can legally drive one.
Do I have to remove Endorsement A if I never plan to drive a manual car?
No. If you only drive automatic vehicles, you can keep Endorsement A on your license indefinitely. There is no requirement to remove it, and it does not expire or need renewal. It straightforward stays on your record.
How long does it take to remove Endorsement A?
The road test itself takes about 30 minutes. After you pass, DHSMV processes the removal request, and you receive an updated license by mail within a few weeks. The total time from test to new license is usually three to four weeks.
Can I take the road test in someone else's manual car?
Yes. The vehicle must be in safe working condition and registered, but it does not have to be your own car. Many people borrow a friend's or family member's manual vehicle for the test. Make sure the owner is comfortable with you using it and that insurance coverage is in place.
Will removing Endorsement A cost me money?
There is no fee to remove the endorsement itself, but you will pay for the road test. Costs vary by county — some charge $20 to $50 for a retesting appointment. Contact your local DHSMV office for the exact fee in your area.