Dallas Ticket Attorney Discusses Driver License Restrictions In Texas

Last Updated on June 17, 2025 by Beltz Law Group

Beltz Law Group

Understanding Texas Driver’s License Restrictions: What You Need to Know

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At Beltz Law Group, we frequently receive calls about various driver’s license restrictions. It’s crucial to understand that violating a restriction on your Texas driver’s license can lead to a traffic ticket and other serious consequences. Knowing your specific restrictions and adhering to them is essential for maintaining your driving privileges.

This article aims to clarify the most common types of restrictions that may be placed on a Texas driver’s license. If you’ve received a ticket for violating a driver’s license restriction, or if you have questions about your specific restrictions, our experienced Dallas traffic ticket attorneys are here to help. Feel free to contact our office today at 214-321-4105.

What Are Driver’s License Restrictions?

Driver’s license restrictions are conditions or limitations placed on your driving privileges by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). These are typically noted with a specific code on your physical driver’s license. They are imposed for various reasons, such as medical conditions, age-related limitations for new drivers, or special vehicle requirements. The purpose of these restrictions is to ensure public safety by allowing you to drive only under conditions where you can do so safely.

Common Texas Driver’s License Restrictions

Below is a simplified list of common restriction codes you might find on a Texas driver’s license:

Restriction Code	Description	Common Reason / Example
A	With corrective lenses	Required if you need glasses or contact lenses to meet vision standards.
B	A licensed driver 21 years of age or older must be in the front seat	Often for learner’s permits or provisional licenses.
C	Daytime driving only	May be imposed due to vision limitations at night.
D	Speed not to exceed 45 mph	For certain medical conditions or vehicle types.
E	No manual transmission equipped Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV)	For CDL holders who took their driving test in an automatic transmission CMV.
F	Must hold valid learner license until MM/DD/YY	Indicates a temporary condition for a learner’s permit.
G	TRC 545.424 applies until MM/DD/YY	Refers to specific restrictions for minors during their provisional license period (e.g., curfew, passenger limits).
H	Vehicle not to exceed 26,000 lbs. GVWR	For specific types of vehicles or medical limitations.
I	Motorcycle not to exceed 250cc	For motorcycle licenses with engine size limitations.
J	Licensed motorcycle operator 21 or over in sight	For motorcycle learner permits.
K	Intrastate only	For CDL holders restricted to driving only within Texas.
L	No air brake equipped CMV	For CDL holders who did not test in a CMV with air brakes.
N	Ignition Interlock Required	Mandated by court order, typically after a DWI conviction, to prevent driving under the influence.
P	Stated on License	Indicates a unique restriction that is spelled out directly on the driver’s license document.
Q	Licensed Driver 21 or over (LOFS) in front seat (vehicle above Class B)	For Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) holders operating large vehicles.
R	Licensed Driver 21 or over (LOFS) in front seat (vehicle above Class C)	For Commercial Learner Permit (CLP) holders operating medium-sized commercial vehicles.
S	Outside rearview mirror or hearing aid	For drivers with hearing or vision impairments.
T	Automatic transmission	May be placed on a license if the driver only tested in an automatic vehicle.
U	Applicable prosthetic devices	For drivers who use prosthetic limbs.
V	Medical variance documents required	For CDL holders who have a medical condition requiring a variance from FMCSA regulations.
X	No cargo in CMV tank vehicle	For CDL holders with a tank vehicle endorsement but restricted from carrying cargo.
Y	Valid Texas vision or limb waiver required	Indicates a specific waiver for certain vision or physical conditions.
Z	No full air brake equipped CMV	For CDL holders with certain air brake limitations.
P2, P3, P4, P5, P6, P7	Restricted to driving to/from work/school/essential need activities	Commonly seen on Occupational Driver’s Licenses. The specific ‘P’ code details the exact allowance.
P31	Class C only; no taxi/bus/emergency vehicle	Specific limitation on vehicle types for Class C license holders.
P35	Restricted to operation of three-wheeled Motorcycle	For motorcycle licenses limited to three-wheeled vehicles.

Note: This list is not exhaustive, and the DPS may impose other restrictions based on individual circumstances.

Consequences of Violating a Driver’s License Restriction

Traffic Ticket Defense Attorney

Operating a motor vehicle in violation of a restriction on your license is a serious offense in Texas, typically a Class C misdemeanor. The penalties can include:

Fines: You will likely face a fine for the violation.
Conviction on Your Driving Record: A conviction for violating a restriction will go on your permanent driving record. This can be viewed by insurance companies.
Increased Insurance Premiums: Insurance providers often raise rates significantly for drivers with traffic convictions, including restriction violations.
License Suspension: Accumulating multiple convictions for violating restrictions can lead to your driver’s license being suspended. This could require you to obtain an Occupational Driver’s License (ODL) if you need to drive for essential purposes.
Further Legal Action: In some cases, severe or repeated violations could lead to more significant legal problems.

Criminal Defense Attorney

How Beltz Law Group Can Help

If you’ve been cited for violating a driver’s license restriction, it’s crucial to seek legal counsel promptly. An experienced traffic ticket attorney can:

Review Your Case: We will examine the details of your citation and your driver’s license to understand the specific charges and restrictions.
Negotiate with the Prosecutor: Our goal is to work with the court to achieve the best possible outcome, aiming to prevent a conviction from appearing on your driving record.
Explain Your Options: We will clarify your legal options and the potential consequences, helping you make informed decisions about your case.
Assist with License Issues: If your license is at risk of suspension due to a restriction violation, we can advise on steps to protect your driving privileges.

Don’t let a driver’s license restriction violation jeopardize your ability to drive. Contact the experienced Dallas traffic ticket attorneys at Beltz Law Group today at 214-321-4105 for a consultation. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of Texas traffic law.