Restriction 01 is a corrective lenses requirement
Restriction 01 means you must wear eyeglasses or contact lenses whenever you drive. It appears on your license as a condition of your driving privilege, and driving without the correction you were tested in violates the restriction — even if you feel you can see well enough without them.
This restriction is issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent agency) during your vision screening at license renewal or initial issuance. If you failed the vision test without correction but passed with glasses or contacts, the DMV adds Restriction 01 to your license to document that requirement.
The restriction stays on your license until you request removal. You can remove it by passing a vision test without correction, or by having an eye care professional document that your vision has improved enough that correction is no longer necessary.
Key Takeaways
- Restriction 01 requires you to wear the eyeglasses or contact lenses you wore during your vision test every time you operate a vehicle.
- The restriction appears on your license as a printed condition and is enforceable — driving without correction can result in a citation.
- You can remove Restriction 01 by passing a vision test without correction at your local DMV office.
- Some states allow an eye care professional to submit vision documentation directly to the DMV to remove the restriction without a retest.
Why the DMV adds Restriction 01
The DMV tests your vision as part of the license issuance process because driving safety depends on being able to see road signs, pedestrians, and hazards at safe distances. If you cannot meet the vision standard without correction, the agency documents that requirement on your license rather than denying it outright.
The specific vision standard varies by state, but most require you to see at least 20/40 in each eye, or 20/30 combined, to drive. If you meet that standard only with glasses or contacts, Restriction 01 is added. If you meet it without correction, no restriction appears.
What happens if you drive without the required correction
Driving without the eyeglasses or contacts specified in Restriction 01 is a traffic violation in all states. A police officer who stops you can cite you for violating the restriction, which is typically a moving violation that adds points to your driving record and may increase your insurance rates.
The citation does not automatically suspend your license, but repeated violations or accumulating points can trigger suspension. More importantly, if you are involved in an accident while driving without the required correction, your insurance company may deny your claim, leaving you personally liable for damages.
How to remove Restriction 01 from your license
The most direct method is to visit your local DMV office and request a vision retest. Bring your current license and be prepared to pay a retest fee, which typically ranges from $10 to $30 depending on your state. If you pass the vision test without correction, the DMV will issue a new license without Restriction 01.
Some states allow you to submit a letter from an optometrist or ophthalmologist stating that your vision now meets the standard without correction. Contact your state DMV to ask whether they accept this route — if they do, you can avoid the retest by having your eye care provider send the documentation directly to the agency. This process usually takes two to four weeks.
If you have had vision correction surgery (such as LASIK), your eye care provider can document the results and submit them to the DMV. You may still need to pass a vision test to confirm the improvement, but the surgical records can speed the process.
Other common driver's license restrictions
Restriction 01 is one of several conditions the DMV can place on your license. Restriction 02 requires you to wear a hearing aid if you are deaf or hard of hearing. Restriction 03 limits you to automatic transmission vehicles only. Restriction 04 requires an outside left mirror if you cannot turn your head far enough to see behind you.
Other restrictions may limit you to daylight driving only, require you to use a hand control device, or restrict you to certain roads or distances from home. Each restriction is documented on your license and is enforceable. If you believe a restriction on your license is no longer necessary, contact your DMV to discuss removal options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with contacts instead of glasses if my restriction says glasses?
Yes. Restriction 01 requires corrective lenses — it does not specify which type. If you were tested in glasses but wear contacts, you can drive with contacts as long as they correct your vision to the same level. The restriction is about the correction itself, not the method of delivery.
Will Restriction 01 affect my insurance rates?
The restriction itself does not affect your rates. However, if you receive a citation for driving without the required correction, that violation will be reported to your insurance company and may increase your premiums. Compliance with the restriction protects both your safety and your insurance standing.
What if I lost my glasses and need to drive?
You should not drive without the correction required by Restriction 01, even temporarily. If you have lost or broken your glasses, obtain a replacement before driving. If you need glasses urgently, many optical retailers can provide same-day service. Driving without the required correction is a violation regardless of the reason.
Do I need to tell my insurance company about Restriction 01?
You do not need to report the restriction itself — it is a public record on your license. However, if you receive a citation for violating the restriction, you must report that violation to your insurance company as it is a moving violation that affects your driving record.
Can Restriction 01 be added to my license after I already have one?
Yes. If your vision changes and declines over time, the DMV can add Restriction 01 during a license renewal if you no longer meet the vision standard without correction. This is why vision screening is part of the renewal process in most states.