Restriction A is a limit on automatic transmissions
Restriction A means you are only allowed to drive a vehicle with an automatic transmission. If your license has this restriction, you cannot legally drive a manual transmission (stick shift) vehicle, even if you know how.
This restriction appears on your license document itself — usually printed as a code or note in a restrictions section. Different states use different codes or wording, but the meaning is the same across all of them: automatic transmission only.
The restriction exists because the licensing authority determined during your driving test or license issuance that you demonstrated the ability to operate an automatic vehicle safely, but either did not test in a manual vehicle or did not pass that portion of the test.
Key Takeaways
- Restriction A limits you to driving automatic transmission vehicles only and appears as a code or note on your physical license.
- You received this restriction because you either tested in an automatic vehicle or did not pass a manual transmission test.
- Driving a manual transmission vehicle while under Restriction A is a violation and can result in a traffic citation.
- You can remove Restriction A by passing a driving test in a manual transmission vehicle at your state's licensing office.
How you get Restriction A on your license
Most commonly, you receive Restriction A because you took your driving test in an automatic transmission vehicle. When you pass your test in an automatic, the licensing examiner notes that you have not demonstrated competency in a manual transmission, so they add the restriction to your license.
Some states place this restriction automatically on all new licenses unless the applicant specifically tests in a manual vehicle. Other states only add it if you request it or if circumstances during testing suggest you should have it. The rules vary by state, so if you are unsure why your license has this restriction, your state's Department of Motor Vehicles can tell you.
A few people receive Restriction A later in life if they renew their license in a different state or if they fail a manual transmission retest. This is less common but can happen during a license transfer or renewal process.
What you cannot do with Restriction A
You cannot legally operate any vehicle with a manual transmission while Restriction A is on your license. This includes cars, trucks, motorcycles with manual clutches, and any other vehicle that requires you to shift gears manually. Driving a manual vehicle in violation of this restriction is a traffic violation in all states.
The penalty for violating Restriction A varies by state but typically includes a fine, points on your driving record, or both. In some states, a violation can also result in a license suspension. If you are pulled over while driving a manual vehicle and your license shows Restriction A, the officer will likely issue you a citation.
Rental car companies and vehicle owners may also refuse to let you rent or borrow a manual transmission vehicle if they see Restriction A on your license, since they would be liable if you were cited.
How to remove Restriction A from your license
To remove Restriction A, you must pass a driving test in a manual transmission vehicle. Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to schedule a test. You will need to bring a manual transmission vehicle to the test site — either your own or one you borrow or rent.
The test is usually shorter than a full driver's license test and focuses on your ability to operate the manual transmission safely. The examiner will watch you start the vehicle, shift gears, accelerate, brake, and handle turns and parking. If you pass, the examiner will remove the restriction from your license on the spot or issue you a new license without it within a few days.
Some states allow you to remove the restriction by straightforward requesting it and paying a fee, without taking another test. This is rare, but worth asking about when you contact your DMV. A few states also allow you to remove it by taking an online or written test about manual transmissions, though this is even less common.
Restriction A versus other common license restrictions
Driver's licenses can have many different restrictions, and they are not all the same. Restriction B or Restriction C might limit you to daytime driving only, require you to wear corrective lenses, or restrict you to certain roads. Restriction D might require an interlock device if you have a DUI conviction. The codes and meanings differ by state, so check your license document or your state's DMV website to understand what any other restrictions mean.
Restriction A is one of the most common restrictions because so many people take their driving test in an automatic vehicle. It is also one of the easiest to remove if you decide you need to drive a manual transmission vehicle later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive a manual transmission car if I have Restriction A?
No. Driving a manual transmission vehicle while Restriction A is on your license is illegal and can result in a traffic citation, fine, and points on your record. Even if you are a skilled manual driver, the restriction is a legal limit you must follow.
Will Restriction A affect my car insurance rates?
Restriction A itself does not typically affect your insurance rates. However, if you receive a citation for violating the restriction, that violation will appear on your driving record and may increase your rates.
Do I need Restriction A if I only drive automatic vehicles?
No, you do not need it. If you never plan to drive a manual transmission vehicle, Restriction A does not limit you in any practical way. You can leave it on your license or remove it if you prefer a license without restrictions.
How long does it take to remove Restriction A?
The test itself takes 15 to 30 minutes. If you pass, some states remove the restriction when ready and issue a new license on the spot. Others mail you a new license within a few days. Contact your state's DMV to find out their timeline.
What if I fail the manual transmission test?
You can retake the test. Most states allow you to schedule another test after a waiting period, which is usually a few days to a week. There is typically a fee for each test attempt.