Restriction B is a vision correction requirement

Restriction B on your driver's license means you must wear corrective lenses—glasses or contact lenses—whenever you drive. The restriction appears on your license as a condition of your driving privilege, and driving without the required correction is a violation that can result in a ticket, even if you have perfect vision in one eye or can see adequately without them.

This restriction is issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent agency) based on your vision test results during licensing or renewal. The threshold for requiring correction varies slightly by state, but most states impose Restriction B when your uncorrected vision falls below a certain standard—typically 20/40 or worse in one or both eyes, or when you have a significant difference in vision between your eyes.

The restriction does not mean your license is invalid or that you cannot drive. It means your license is valid only under the condition that you wear your corrective lenses. Many drivers have this restriction and drive legally every day.

Key Takeaways

  • Restriction B requires you to wear glasses or contact lenses every time you drive, and driving without them is illegal even if you think you can see well enough.
  • The restriction is placed on your license based on your vision test results at the DMV, usually when uncorrected vision is 20/40 or worse.
  • You can remove Restriction B by passing a vision test without correction, or by retesting with your current correction and demonstrating vision that meets your state's standard.
  • Different states have slightly different vision thresholds and may use different codes or labels for the same restriction, so check your state's DMV website for the exact requirement.

How Restriction B appears on your license

Restriction B shows up in the restrictions or conditions section of your driver's license, usually printed as a code or short phrase. On many licenses, you will see it listed alongside other information like your address, license class, and expiration date. Some states print it as "B" alone; others write it out as "Corrective Lenses" or "Vision Correction Required."

The exact wording depends on your state. California uses "Corrective Lenses," while other states may use abbreviations or numbers. If you are unsure what your restriction means, your state's DMV website will have a key explaining all restriction codes used on licenses issued in your state.

Why the DMV issues Restriction B

The DMV issues Restriction B to protect public safety. Vision is critical to safe driving—you need to see road signs, pedestrians, other vehicles, and hazards at a distance. If your uncorrected vision does not meet the state's minimum standard, the DMV requires correction to bring your vision up to that standard.

The restriction does not mean you are unsafe to drive with correction. It means that without correction, your vision is below the legal threshold. With glasses or contacts, your vision can meet or exceed the standard, making you safe to operate a vehicle. The restriction is a condition that ensures you meet that standard every time you drive.

How to remove Restriction B from your license

To remove Restriction B, you must pass a vision test without wearing corrective lenses. You can do this at your state's DMV office during a license renewal or at any time you want to challenge the restriction. The vision test is the same one used during your initial licensing—you will read letters or numbers on a chart from a set distance, usually 20 feet.

If your uncorrected vision now meets your state's standard (typically 20/40 or better in each eye, or a combined standard depending on your state), the restriction will be removed and your license will be reissued without it. If your uncorrected vision still does not meet the standard, the restriction will remain.

Some states allow you to request a new vision test at no charge or for a small fee. Check your state's DMV website for the process and any fees involved. You do not need an eye doctor's letter or prescription to challenge the restriction—the DMV will test you directly.

What happens if you drive without the required correction

Driving without the corrective lenses required by Restriction B is a traffic violation. You can be pulled over and cited, even if you were driving safely and caused no accident. The violation is separate from any other traffic offense and can result in a fine, points on your driving record, or both, depending on your state.

In some states, repeated violations of license restrictions can lead to license suspension or revocation. Additionally, if you are involved in an accident while driving without required correction, your insurance company may deny a claim or use the violation against you, and you could face additional liability.

Restriction B versus other vision-related restrictions

Some states use multiple restriction codes for vision-related conditions. Restriction B is the most common and straightforward means corrective lenses are required. Other states may use different codes for conditions like limited peripheral vision, need for outside mirrors, or daytime-only driving restrictions. These are separate from Restriction B and address different vision issues.

If you have Restriction B and also have other restrictions on your license, each one is a separate condition you must follow. For example, you might have Restriction B (corrective lenses) and a separate restriction for daytime driving only if you have night vision problems. Check your license carefully to see all restrictions listed.

How to prepare for a vision test at the DMV

If you plan to challenge Restriction B by taking a vision test without correction, prepare by understanding what the test measures. The standard vision test checks how clearly you can see letters or numbers at a distance. It does not test color vision, peripheral vision, or other aspects of sight unless your state specifically requires those tests.

Wear your current corrective lenses to the DMV if you are not challenging the restriction—you will need them for the test if you are renewing your license. If you are challenging Restriction B, arrive without your lenses and be prepared to take the test uncorrected. If you fail, you can put your lenses back on and continue with your renewal or other DMV business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with Restriction B if I forget my glasses?

No. Driving without the corrective lenses required by Restriction B is illegal, even if you forget them or think you can see well enough. If you are pulled over, you can be cited for violating your license restriction. Always keep your glasses or contacts with you when you drive.

Does Restriction B mean my license is suspended or invalid?

No. Your license is valid and you can drive legally with Restriction B as long as you wear the required correction. The restriction is a condition of your driving privilege, not a mark against your license. You are a fully licensed driver—you just have one condition to follow.

How much does it cost to remove Restriction B?

The cost varies by state. Some states charge a small fee for a vision retest (often $5 to $20), while others offer the retest at no charge. Check your state's DMV website or call your local DMV office to find out the fee in your state and whether you need an appointment.

What if I have Restriction B but my vision has improved?

You can request a vision retest at your DMV to see if your uncorrected vision now meets the standard. If it does, the restriction will be removed. You do not need a doctor's note or prescription—the DMV will test you directly. Some states allow you to request this retest during a renewal or at any time.

Can I wear contact lenses instead of glasses to satisfy Restriction B?

Yes. Restriction B requires corrective lenses, which includes both glasses and contact lenses. You can wear either one or switch between them. The restriction only requires that you wear some form of vision correction—it does not specify which type.