RSTR is a restriction code that limits how or where you can drive
RSTR on your driver's license means "restriction." It appears in the restrictions section of your license and tells law enforcement and licensing officials that you are not permitted to drive under all conditions. The specific restriction depends on what your state's DMV added to your record — it might mean you cannot drive at night, cannot drive without corrective lenses, cannot drive a manual transmission vehicle, or must use an ignition interlock device.
The letter or number code that follows RSTR tells you which restriction applies. For example, "RSTR A" might mean you must wear corrective lenses while driving, while "RSTR D" might mean you cannot drive a commercial vehicle. Each state uses its own codes, so the meaning of "RSTR B" in California differs from "RSTR B" in Texas.
If you drive in violation of a restriction on your license, you can be cited for a separate offense — even if you were driving safely otherwise. The violation appears on your driving record and can affect your insurance rates and future licensing decisions.
Key Takeaways
- RSTR means your license has one or more conditions you must follow when driving, and the code after it specifies what that condition is.
- Common restrictions include corrective lenses only, no night driving, no commercial vehicles, and ignition interlock devices after a DUI conviction.
- Each state assigns different letter or number codes to restrictions, so you need to check your state's DMV handbook to understand what your specific code means.
- Driving in violation of a restriction is a separate offense that can result in a citation, points on your record, and higher insurance costs.
- You can request a restriction be removed by contacting your state DMV, though some restrictions (like those tied to medical conditions) require documentation that the condition no longer applies.
Common restriction codes and what they mean
Most states use a standard set of restrictions, though the letter codes vary. A restriction for corrective lenses (glasses or contacts) is one of the most common — your license will note that you must wear them every time you drive. A restriction for daylight driving only means you cannot operate the vehicle between sunset and sunrise. Some states impose this on older drivers or people with certain vision conditions.
An ignition interlock device (IID) restriction appears on licenses after a DUI or DWI conviction. This device requires you to blow into a breathalyzer before the engine will start. You pay for the device installation and monthly monitoring yourself, and the restriction stays in place for a set period determined by your state and the circumstances of your conviction.
Other common restrictions include no manual transmission vehicles (for drivers with certain physical disabilities), no towing or passengers (sometimes imposed on young drivers), and restrictions on the type of vehicle you can operate (such as no motorcycles or no large trucks). A few states also issue restrictions that require you to use a hearing aid or to drive only on certain routes.
To find out what your specific code means, check your state's DMV handbook or contact your local DMV office. The code appears on the back of your physical license or in your online license record.
How restrictions end up on your license
A restriction is added to your license when the DMV determines that you need one to drive safely or legally. Medical examiners can recommend restrictions based on vision tests, hearing tests, or reports of medical conditions that affect driving ability. If you fail a vision screening at license renewal, the DMV may add a corrective lenses restriction. If you report a seizure disorder or loss of consciousness, the DMV may restrict you to daylight driving or require a medical clearance before you can drive at all.
Court-ordered restrictions appear after a criminal conviction. A DUI or DWI conviction almost always results in an ignition interlock restriction. Some states also impose restrictions after reckless driving convictions or after you accumulate too many points on your record in a short time.
Age-based restrictions are common for new drivers under 18 or 21, depending on your state. These might include no night driving, no passengers under a certain age, or no use of cell phones — even hands-free. These restrictions typically expire on a set date or when you reach a certain age.
How to find out what your restriction means
Your physical driver's license shows restrictions in a dedicated section, usually on the back. The restriction will appear as "RSTR" followed by a letter or number code. If you have an online account with your state's DMV, you can also view your restrictions there — most states allow you to log in and see your full license record, including all restrictions and their codes.
The fastest way to learn what your code means is to read your state's DMV handbook, which lists all restriction codes and their definitions. You can find this on your state's DMV website. If the handbook does not explain your specific code, call your local DMV office and give them the code — they can tell you exactly what it means and what you must do to comply.
If you believe a restriction was added in error, or if the condition that caused it no longer applies, you can request a hearing or a review. For medical restrictions, you may need to provide a letter from a doctor stating that the condition has improved or resolved. For court-ordered restrictions, you typically must petition the court that imposed them.
What happens if you drive with a violated restriction
Driving in violation of a restriction is treated as a separate traffic offense. If you are pulled over and the officer sees that you violated a restriction on your license, you will receive a citation for that violation in addition to any other citations. For example, if you were required to wear corrective lenses and were not, you can be cited for driving with a restriction violation even if your driving was otherwise safe and legal.
A restriction violation typically adds points to your driving record, which can raise your insurance rates and may eventually lead to license suspension if you accumulate too many points. The violation also becomes part of your permanent driving history and may be considered if you are stopped again in the future.
If you violate an ignition interlock restriction by driving a vehicle without the device, or by tampering with the device, the consequences are more serious. Most states treat this as a criminal offense, not just a traffic violation, and you may face jail time, fines, and when ready license suspension.
Removing or modifying a restriction
The process for removing a restriction depends on why it was imposed. Medical restrictions can sometimes be removed by providing documentation from a doctor. If your vision has improved and you no longer need corrective lenses, you can request a vision test at the DMV. If the test shows your vision is now adequate without correction, the restriction can be removed.
Age-based restrictions expire automatically on the date specified by your state. You do not need to do anything — your license will straightforward be updated when you renew it or when the expiration date passes. Some states allow you to request early removal if you meet certain conditions, such as completing a defensive driving course.
Court-ordered restrictions, such as ignition interlock requirements, can only be removed by the court that imposed them or by the DMV after the required time period has passed. You cannot remove these restrictions yourself. If you believe the restriction should be lifted early, you must petition the court in writing and request a hearing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive if I have a restriction on my license?
Yes, you can drive, but only under the conditions specified by your restriction. If your restriction is corrective lenses, you must wear them. If it is no night driving, you cannot drive after sunset. Violating the restriction is a separate offense.
What does RSTR A mean?
RSTR A typically means corrective lenses required, but codes vary by state. Check your state's DMV handbook or call your local DMV to confirm what the code means where you live.
Will a restriction affect my insurance rates?
Most restrictions themselves do not directly affect rates, but violations of restrictions will. If you are cited for driving in violation of a restriction, the violation goes on your record and your insurance company will see it.
How long does a restriction stay on my license?
It depends on the type. Medical restrictions may be permanent or may expire when you renew your license. Age-based restrictions expire on a set date. Court-ordered restrictions stay until the court lifts them or the required time period passes.
Can I get a restriction removed before the expiration date?
For medical restrictions, yes — if you can show the condition no longer applies. For court-ordered restrictions, you must petition the court. Age-based restrictions cannot be removed early in most states.