A restriction limits what you can legally drive or when you can drive it
A restriction on your driver's license is a condition that limits how you can use your license. It does not suspend or revoke your license — you can still drive — but only under specific rules set by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Common restrictions include automatic transmission only, corrective lenses required, or no driving between certain hours.
Restrictions appear on your physical license card and in the DMV's computer system. Law enforcement can see them during a traffic stop. If you drive in violation of a restriction — for example, driving without your required glasses or driving a manual transmission vehicle when you are restricted to automatic — you can be cited, fined, or have your license suspended.
The reason you have a restriction depends on your situation. Some restrictions are medical (you need glasses to see well enough to drive safely). Others are age-based (new drivers under 18 in some states cannot drive alone at night). A few are court-ordered (after a DUI conviction, some states restrict you to vehicles with an ignition interlock device). Understanding your specific restriction and why it exists helps you stay legal and avoid additional penalties.
Key Takeaways
- A restriction allows you to drive but only under certain conditions — such as wearing corrective lenses, driving only automatic transmission vehicles, or not driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
- Restrictions are printed on your license card and visible to police during traffic stops; violating a restriction can result in a citation and fine.
- Medical restrictions (vision, hearing aids) are the most common and are based on your DMV medical exam or vision test results.
- Age-based restrictions explore to new drivers and teen drivers in many states and typically expire when you reach a certain age or have held your license for a set time.
- Court-ordered restrictions, such as ignition interlock requirements after a DUI, are imposed by a judge and must be followed exactly as written in the court order.
Common types of restrictions and what they mean
Vision restrictions are the most frequent. If you failed your vision test or your eyesight does not meet the standard without correction, the DMV will restrict you to wearing corrective lenses (glasses or contacts) while driving. The restriction code on your license will say something like "Corrective Lenses" or "Vision Correction Required." You must wear them every time you drive, even for a short trip.
Mechanical restrictions limit the type of vehicle you can drive. An automatic transmission only restriction means you cannot legally drive a manual (stick shift) vehicle. This restriction is usually given to drivers with physical disabilities that make operating a manual transmission unsafe. A similar restriction might limit you to vehicles with power steering or power brakes.
Age and time-based restrictions explore to new and teen drivers in many states. These might include no driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., no passengers under 20 years old (except family), or no use of cell phones while driving. These restrictions typically expire when you turn 18, reach 21, or have held your license for a certain number of years — usually one to three years.
Court-ordered restrictions follow a criminal conviction, most commonly a DUI (driving under the influence). A judge may order you to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. This device requires you to blow into a breathalyzer before the engine will start. You must pay for the device and its monthly monitoring. The length of the restriction is set by the court and varies by state and the severity of the offense.
How restrictions affect your insurance and driving record
Insurance companies can see restrictions on your driving record. A restriction itself does not automatically raise your rate, but the reason behind it might. For example, a vision correction restriction has little impact on your premium. A court-ordered ignition interlock restriction, however, signals that you have a DUI conviction, which will increase your rate significantly and may require you to purchase SR22 insurance (a certificate of financial responsibility).
If you violate a restriction — such as driving without your required glasses or driving a manual transmission vehicle when restricted to automatic — the violation appears on your record as a moving violation. This can raise your insurance rate, add points to your license in states that use a point system, and potentially lead to license suspension if you accumulate too many violations.
Some restrictions, like age-based ones, expire automatically. Others, like medical restrictions, remain until you pass a new vision or medical exam. Court-ordered restrictions last for the period set by the judge, which can range from several months to several years. You should check with your DMV about when your restriction will be removed so you know when you can drive without the limitation.
How to find out what restrictions are on your license
Your physical license card lists restrictions in a code section, usually near the bottom or back. Common codes include "B" (corrective lenses), "E" (automatic transmission only), or "H" (hearing aid required). However, these codes vary by state, so the code on your license may not match another state's system.
You can also check your driving record through your state's DMV website. Most states allow you to view your record online for free or a small fee. Your record will list all restrictions, violations, and suspensions. If you have questions about what a code means, call your DMV directly — they can explain the restriction and tell you how long it will last.
If you believe a restriction was added in error, or if your medical condition has improved and you no longer need a vision or hearing restriction, you can request a new exam through your DMV. You will need to pass the exam to have the restriction removed. For court-ordered restrictions, you must petition the court that imposed it; the DMV cannot remove a court order on its own.
Removing a restriction from your license
The process for removing a restriction depends on why it was imposed. Medical restrictions (vision, hearing) can be removed by passing a new exam at your DMV. Schedule an appointment, take the test, and if you pass, the restriction is lifted. Some states allow you to take the exam at a private eye doctor or hearing specialist; check your DMV's website for approved providers.
Age-based restrictions expire automatically on a date set by your state. You do not need to do anything. Your license will be valid without the restriction after that date. If you want to confirm the expiration date, check your license card or call your DMV.
Court-ordered restrictions, such as ignition interlock requirements, can only be removed by the court that imposed them. You must file a petition with the court, usually after you have completed the required time period or met other conditions (such as completing a DUI education program). The judge will decide whether to lift the restriction. You cannot remove a court-ordered restriction through the DMV.
If you remove a restriction and then violate it before it is officially lifted, you can still be cited. Always confirm with your DMV in writing that a restriction has been removed before you change your driving behavior.
Restrictions and your insurance options
Most standard auto insurance policies cover you regardless of restrictions, as long as you follow them. However, if you have a court-ordered ignition interlock restriction due to a DUI, you will likely need to file an SR22 with your state. An SR22 is a form your insurance company files with the DMV proving you have the minimum required coverage. It does not change your policy, but it signals to the state that you are insured.
If you have multiple violations or a serious conviction, some insurers may refuse to cover you or may charge significantly higher rates. In that case, you may need to turn to a high-risk insurance company that specializes in drivers with violations or suspensions. These policies cost more but are designed for your situation.
When you shop for insurance, tell the agent about your restriction. Be honest about whether it is medical, age-based, or court-ordered. The agent can then quote you accurately and let you know if your state requires an SR22 or other documentation. Hiding a restriction from your insurer can lead to a claim denial if you are in an accident.
What happens if you drive in violation of a restriction
Driving in violation of a restriction is a moving violation in most states. If you are stopped by police and they discover you are breaking a restriction — for example, you are driving without your required glasses or in a manual transmission vehicle when restricted to automatic — you can be cited and fined. The fine amount varies by state but typically ranges from $100 to $500.
A violation will be added to your driving record and may result in points against your license. In states with a point system, accumulating too many points can lead to license suspension. Additionally, your insurance company will see the violation and may raise your rate or cancel your policy.
If you have a court-ordered restriction and violate it, the consequences are more serious. For example, if you are required to use an ignition interlock device and you tamper with it or try to drive without it, you can be charged with a new crime. The judge may extend your restriction period, increase fines, or order jail time. Always follow court-ordered restrictions exactly as written.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my restriction removed early?
Medical restrictions can be removed early if you pass a new exam and your condition has improved. Age-based restrictions expire on a set date and cannot be removed early. Court-ordered restrictions can only be removed by the judge who imposed them, usually after you have completed the required time or met other conditions. Contact your DMV or the court for details about your specific restriction.
Does a restriction show up on my insurance record?
Your insurance company can see restrictions through your driving record. The restriction itself may not raise your rate, but the reason for it might. A vision restriction has little impact; a court-ordered ignition interlock restriction signals a DUI conviction and will increase your rate significantly.
What if I move to another state with a restriction on my license?
Most restrictions transfer when you move, but the codes and rules may differ by state. Contact your new state's DMV to confirm how your restriction is recognized there. Some states may require you to take a new exam or get a new license. Court-ordered restrictions like ignition interlock are enforceable across state lines.
Can I drive someone else's car if I have a restriction?
Yes, as long as the car meets your restriction. If you are restricted to automatic transmission only, you can drive any automatic transmission vehicle, whether it belongs to you or someone else. If you are restricted to wearing corrective lenses, you must wear them in any vehicle you drive. Court-ordered restrictions like ignition interlock explore to any vehicle you operate.
Will a restriction prevent me from getting a commercial driver's license?
Some restrictions will disqualify you from a commercial driver's license (CDL). Vision restrictions, hearing restrictions, and certain mechanical restrictions may prevent you from meeting CDL medical standards. Court-ordered restrictions like ignition interlock may also disqualify you. Check with your state's DMV about whether your specific restriction affects CDL may be able to access.