The G restriction limits you to driving only during daylight hours and in a specific geographic area

A G restriction on a Texas driver license means you can only drive between sunrise and sunset, and only within a radius set by the Department of Public Safety — usually within 15 miles of your home or workplace. You cannot drive at night, on highways, or outside the approved zone. The restriction appears on the front of your license as a code, and law enforcement can see it when ready when they run your license.

This restriction is most commonly given to drivers who are 16 or 17 years old and hold a Class M (motorcycle) license, or to drivers who have failed the vision test but can still drive safely under limited conditions. It can also be imposed if you have medical conditions that affect your ability to drive in all situations, or if you have been convicted of certain traffic violations as a young driver.

Key Takeaways

  • A G restriction limits you to daylight driving only, between sunrise and sunset, and within a geographic radius set by DPS.
  • The restriction is most common for motorcycle riders under 18 and for drivers with vision or medical limitations.
  • Violating the restriction — driving at night or outside the approved area — is a traffic violation that can result in a ticket and points on your record.
  • You can request removal of the restriction once you meet the conditions DPS set, which usually means passing a new vision test or reaching a certain age.

Why DPS places a G restriction on your license

Texas places G restrictions for safety reasons tied to specific driving situations. For young motorcycle riders, the restriction recognizes that night riding and highway speeds carry higher crash risk. For drivers with vision problems, the restriction allows them to drive during daylight when visibility is better, but not at night when their vision limitations become more dangerous.

If you have a medical condition — such as certain types of epilepsy, sleep disorders, or progressive vision loss — DPS may impose a G restriction as a compromise between taking your license away entirely and allowing unrestricted driving. The restriction lets you maintain independence for essential trips while protecting public safety.

What you cannot do with a G restriction

You cannot drive between sunset and sunrise, even on local streets. You cannot drive outside the geographic radius DPS assigned to you — if your radius is 15 miles from your home address, you cannot drive to a job 20 miles away or to a city outside that zone. You cannot drive on interstate highways or toll roads, depending on how DPS worded your restriction.

If you are stopped by a police officer while driving in violation of your G restriction, you will receive a traffic citation. This violation can result in a fine, points added to your driving record, and potentially an increase in your insurance rates. A second violation may trigger a license suspension or revocation.

How to read the G restriction on your license

On the front of your Texas driver license, look for a code in the restrictions section — it will say something like "G" followed by numbers or text describing the limits. For example, you might see "G-Daylight Only" or "G-15 Mile Radius." The back of your license may also list the specific conditions, such as the hours you are allowed to drive or the geographic boundaries.

If you are unsure what your specific restriction means, you can call the DPS Driver License Division at 1-888-589-6556 or visit a DPS office in person with your license. Staff can explain exactly what you are and are not permitted to do.

How to request removal of a G restriction

The process for removing a G restriction depends on why it was placed on your license. If the restriction was due to a vision problem, you will need to pass a new vision test administered by DPS. You can schedule this test at any DPS office — bring your current license and be prepared to pay a testing fee, which varies but is typically under $25.

If the restriction was placed because you are a young driver, it will be automatically removed once you reach the age specified by DPS — usually 18 for motorcycle riders. You do not need to request removal; it happens automatically when you renew your license or reach that birthday.

If the restriction was medical in nature, removal depends on your specific condition. You may need to provide a letter from your doctor stating that the condition no longer affects your ability to drive safely. Contact DPS to find out what documentation they require before you schedule an appointment.

What happens if you drive outside your restriction

Driving in violation of a G restriction is a traffic violation under Texas Transportation Code. An officer can pull you over for driving at night or outside your approved radius, just as they would for speeding or running a red light. You will receive a citation and may face a fine ranging from $100 to $200, depending on the specific violation and the officer's discretion.

A violation also adds points to your driving record, which can increase your insurance premiums and may affect your ability to renew your license without additional requirements. If you accumulate multiple violations, DPS may suspend or revoke your license entirely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive to work if my job is outside my G restriction radius?

No, not without first requesting a modification to your restriction. Contact DPS and explain your work situation — they may expand your radius or modify the restriction to allow commuting to that specific location. Bring proof of employment, such as a letter from your employer with the work address.

Does a G restriction show up on my insurance?

Your insurance company can see your G restriction when they pull your driving record. Some insurers may offer lower rates because the restriction reduces your risk profile, while others may not adjust your rate. Call your insurance agent to ask how the restriction affects your premium.

What if I need to drive at night for an emergency?

A G restriction does not have an emergency exception. If you drive at night, you can be cited even if you were responding to an emergency. If you face a genuine ongoing need to drive at night, contact DPS to request a modification to your restriction before the situation arises.

Can I get a G restriction removed early if I pass a driving safety course?

A defensive driving course does not automatically remove a G restriction. If the restriction is vision-related, you must pass a vision test. If it is age-related, you must reach the specified age. Contact DPS to ask whether your specific restriction allows early removal through any other means.

Will a G restriction affect my ability to get a commercial driver license?

Yes. To obtain a commercial driver license (CDL), you must have an unrestricted regular license first. You will need to have your G restriction removed before you can explore for a CDL. The process depends on why the restriction was placed — contact DPS to find out what steps you need to take.