400 N Walker Ave #130, Oklahoma City, OK Phone: 405-605-2426
In Oklahoma, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) can impose various restrictions on driver’s licenses to ensure the safe operation of motor vehicles. These restrictions are based on the licensee’s driving ability, physical limitations, medical conditions, or other factors that may affect their ability to drive safely.
Types of Driver’s License Restrictions in Oklahoma
According to the Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) § 260:135-5-31, the following are the various driving restriction codes and their meanings:
- Corrective lenses: The driver must wear corrective lenses (glasses or contacts) while operating a motor vehicle.
- Left outside rearview mirror: The vehicle must be equipped with a left outside rearview mirror.
- Restriction 1 or 2: The driver must have either corrective lenses or a left outside rearview mirror.
- Automatic transmission: The driver is restricted to operating a vehicle with an automatic transmission.
- Turn indicators, power steering, or steering knob: The driver must have turn indicators, power steering, or a steering knob on their vehicle, typically due to limited use of either hand.
- Food, fruit, or candy within reach of the driver: This restriction is for drivers with insulin-dependent diabetes who may need quick access to food to maintain proper blood sugar levels.
- Adequate artificial limbs: The driver must have adequate artificial limbs to operate the vehicle safely.
- Detailed restriction: This code is used when other restrictions are not applicable, and a narrative explaining the restriction will appear on the person’s driver’s license file.
- Learner’s Permit: A licensed driver who is at least 21 years old must be in the front seat, and the permit holder may only drive between 5:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
- Motorcycle only: If the driver is under 16, they are restricted to operating a motorcycle with a piston displacement of no more than 300cc between 4:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. Additional restrictions apply, such as not carrying passengers and wearing a helmet.
- Motorcycle Learner’s Permit: Regardless of age, when operating a motorcycle, the driver must be in view of a person who is licensed to operate a motorcycle and is at least 21 years old.
The Oklahoma DPS can also impose additional restrictions on driver’s licenses:
- Daylight Driving Only: This restriction limits the driver to operating a vehicle only during daylight hours, typically from sunrise to sunset.
- Geographic Area Restriction: In some cases, a driver’s license may be restricted to operating a vehicle only within a specific geographic area, such as within city limits or a certain radius from their residence.
- Employment-Related Restrictions: Some drivers may have their licenses restricted to driving only for employment-related purposes, such as traveling to and from work or driving as part of their job duties.
- Ignition Interlock Device: Drivers convicted of alcohol-related offenses may be required to install an ignition interlock device on their vehicle, which prevents the vehicle from starting if the driver’s blood alcohol content is above a predetermined level.
How are driver’s license restrictions determined in Oklahoma?
The DPS determines driver’s license restrictions based on an individual’s driving ability, medical conditions, and other factors that may affect their safety on the road. The DPS may require a driver to undergo a medical evaluation or driving test to assess their ability to drive safely.
Other Types of Restricted Licenses
In addition to the above restrictions, Oklahoma offers the following types of restricted licenses:
Provisional Driver’s License
This license is for individuals whose license has been suspended but meets all the requirements for reinstatement, except for paying the reinstatement fee. With a provisional driver’s license, the person may drive:
- Between their home and workplace or place of potential employment
- Within the scope of their employment
- Between their home and a college, university, or technology center
- Between their home and their child’s school or daycare
- Between their home and place of worship
- Between their home and any court-ordered program or treatment program
To obtain a provisional driver’s license, the individual must pay a $25 enrollment fee and a monthly payment of at least $5 until the reinstatement fee is paid in full.
Intermediate Driver’s License (Graduated Driver’s License)
Drivers between 16 and 18 years old must have an intermediate driver’s license before obtaining an unrestricted license. With an intermediate license, the driver may only operate a vehicle between 5:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., with exceptions for school, church, and work-related activities, or when accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21 years old. They are also restricted in the number of passengers they may carry.
Farm Permit
A farm permit is available to individuals between 14 and 17 years old who have taken the driving test and can provide evidence that they live or work on a farm. The permit allows them to drive under certain conditions, such as going to and from farm-related work, school, or religious worship services. Additional restrictions apply based on the driver’s age and the type of vehicle they are operating.
Relevant Oklahoma Statutes
- 47 O.S. § 6-101: This statute outlines the requirements for obtaining a driver’s license in Oklahoma and grants the DPS the authority to impose restrictions on licenses.
- 47 O.S. § 6-112: This statute specifically addresses the DPS’s authority to impose restrictions on driver’s licenses based on the driver’s abilities, medical conditions, or other factors.
Medical Conditions and Driver’s License Restrictions
The frequency of medical evaluations for drivers with medical conditions varies depending on the specific condition and its severity. Some conditions may require annual evaluations, while others may require more frequent assessments.
If a driver experiences a change in their medical condition that may affect their ability to drive safely, they should notify the DPS as soon as possible. The DPS may require the driver to undergo a medical evaluation or driving test to determine if any restrictions need to be added or modified on their license.
In some cases, drivers with physical impairments may be eligible to obtain a CDL in Oklahoma. However, they must meet the federal physical qualifications for commercial drivers and may be subject to additional restrictions or requirements depending on their specific impairment. The driver may need to obtain a Skill Performance Evaluation (SPE) certificate from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to demonstrate their ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.
Ignition Interlock Devices
Ignition interlock devices are breathalyzers connected to a vehicle’s ignition system. Before starting the vehicle, the driver must blow into the device. If the driver’s blood alcohol content is above a predetermined level, the device will prevent the vehicle from starting. The device may also require periodic breath tests while the vehicle is in operation.