Rest means you must take a break before driving again
A Rest restriction on your driver's license means you are not allowed to drive for a set number of hours after you stop driving. Most commonly, this restriction requires you to rest for at least 10 hours before you can legally operate a vehicle again. The exact number of hours varies by state and the reason the restriction was imposed.
Rest restrictions are most often added to commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) because federal law limits how long truck drivers and bus drivers can work without a break. However, some states also place rest restrictions on regular driver's licenses in specific situations — usually after a driver has been convicted of a serious violation or has failed a medical exam.
The restriction appears as a code or letter on your license itself, typically in a section labeled "Restrictions" or "Endorsements." You need to understand what your specific code means because violating a rest restriction can result in a traffic citation, fines, and points on your driving record.
Key Takeaways
- A rest restriction requires you to wait a set number of hours (usually 10) before driving again after you stop.
- Commercial drivers are subject to federal rest rules, but some states also impose rest restrictions on regular licenses after violations or failed medical exams.
- The restriction code appears on your physical license and you are responsible for knowing what it means.
- Driving while violating a rest restriction is a traffic violation that can result in fines and points on your record.
Rest restrictions for commercial drivers
If you hold a commercial driver's license, federal law sets mandatory rest periods through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules explore to drivers of large trucks and buses. The most common rule is the 10-hour rule: after driving, you must rest for at least 10 consecutive hours before you can drive again.
The 11-hour rule is also standard: you cannot drive more than 11 hours in a single shift without a 10-hour break. Some states add their own restrictions on top of federal rules, so your license may show a rest code that reflects both. Your employer is also responsible for tracking your hours, but you are responsible for following the restriction on your license.
If you are a commercial driver and you drive while violating a rest restriction, you can be cited by a law enforcement officer or a commercial vehicle inspector. The violation goes on your record and can affect your ability to renew your CDL or find work as a commercial driver.
Rest restrictions on regular driver's licenses
Some states place rest restrictions on standard (non-commercial) driver's licenses, though this is less common. A rest restriction might be added if you failed a medical exam related to fatigue, sleep disorders, or a condition that affects your ability to stay alert while driving. In these cases, the restriction typically requires you to rest for a certain number of hours before each driving period.
A few states also impose rest restrictions after certain traffic violations or convictions. For example, if you were convicted of driving under the influence and your license was suspended and then reinstated, your state may add a rest restriction as a condition of reinstatement. The specific rule depends on your state's laws and the reason for the restriction.
If you are unsure whether your license has a rest restriction, check the physical card itself or contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. They can tell you exactly what the code means and what you are required to do.
How to read the restriction code on your license
Rest restrictions appear in a specific section of your driver's license, usually labeled "Restrictions" or "Endorsements." The restriction is shown as a letter or number code — for example, "10" might mean a 10-hour rest requirement, or a state might use a letter like "R" to indicate a rest restriction. The exact code varies by state.
Your license may also include a description of the restriction in plain language, or you may need to look up the code in your state's DMV handbook or website. If the code is unclear, contact your state's DMV directly and provide your license number. They can tell you exactly what the restriction means and what hours you are allowed to drive.
Some states print the restriction on the front of the license, while others print it on the back. Check both sides to make sure you have not missed it. If you are a commercial driver, your employer should also have a copy of your license and should be aware of any restrictions.
What happens if you violate a rest restriction
Driving while you are in violation of a rest restriction is a traffic violation. A police officer or commercial vehicle inspector can cite you if they see that you are driving outside the permitted hours. The citation will result in a fine, which varies by state but typically ranges from $100 to $500 or more.
The violation also adds points to your driving record, which can increase your insurance rates and affect your ability to renew your license. If you hold a commercial license, a rest violation can result in disqualification from driving commercially for a period of time. Repeat violations can lead to license suspension or revocation.
If you are unsure whether you are in violation of your restriction, do not drive. Instead, contact your state's DMV or your employer (if you are a commercial driver) to clarify the rules. It is better to ask than to risk a citation.
Medical exams and rest restrictions
Some states require drivers to pass a medical exam as part of the license renewal process, especially for older drivers or drivers with certain medical conditions. If the exam reveals a condition that affects alertness — such as sleep apnea, narcolepsy, or severe fatigue — the state may add a rest restriction to your license.
The restriction is meant to protect you and other drivers on the road. If you have a condition that makes it unsafe to drive for long periods, the restriction ensures you take breaks. If you believe the restriction is incorrect or if your condition has improved, you can request a new medical exam and ask the DMV to reconsider the restriction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive at night if I have a rest restriction?
It depends on what your specific restriction says. A rest restriction typically means you must wait a certain number of hours after you stop driving before you can drive again — it does not usually prohibit driving at specific times of day. However, some restrictions may include time-of-day limits. Check your license or contact your state's DMV to confirm what your restriction allows.
Do I need to tell my insurance company about a rest restriction?
Yes. A rest restriction is a restriction on your license, and your insurance company should know about it. Failing to disclose it could affect your coverage. Contact your insurance agent and let them know about the restriction so they can update your policy.
What if I did not know I had a rest restriction?
You are responsible for knowing what restrictions appear on your license. If you were cited for violating a restriction you did not know about, you can explain this to the court, but it may not eliminate the fine or points. Check your license regularly and contact your state's DMV if you have questions about any codes or restrictions.
Can a rest restriction be removed?
Yes, depending on why it was added. If the restriction was added due to a medical condition, you may be able to have it removed by passing a new medical exam that shows the condition has improved. If it was added as a condition of license reinstatement, it may be removed after a certain period of time. Contact your state's DMV to learn what steps you need to take.
Do all states use the same rest restriction codes?
No. Each state has its own system for coding restrictions on driver's licenses. A code that means "rest restriction" in one state may mean something different in another state. Always check your state's DMV handbook or website to understand what your specific code means.