Driving Licence Codes Explained: What the Numbers on Your UK Licence Mean

Driving licence codes are the small numbers printed on the back of a UK photocard driving licence. These codes show whether any conditions, limits or restrictions apply to your driving. Some are about eyesight, some are about automatic vehicles, and others relate to vehicle adaptations, trailers, motorcycles or special licence rules.

Key Takeaways

• Driving licence codes are official conditions attached to your licence. They are not random numbers. They explain what you must follow when driving.
• Most codes are shown on the back of your photocard licence. The important area to check is usually column 12, where restrictions and conditions are listed.
• Code 01 means eyesight correction. If this code applies to you, you must wear glasses or contact lenses when driving.
• Code 78 means automatic vehicles only. If you pass your driving test in an automatic car, this code usually appears on your licence.
• Codes and categories are different. A category shows the type of vehicle you can drive. A code shows a condition linked to that vehicle category.
• Ignoring a driving licence code can create legal and insurance problems. You may be driving outside the conditions of your licence.

What Are Driving Licence Codes?

Driving licence codes are numbers printed on your licence to show conditions you must meet when driving. GOV.UK explains that the codes on the back of a driving licence tell you what conditions you must meet to drive, and some codes may be different in Northern Ireland.

These codes may explain that:

• You need glasses or contact lenses when driving.
• You are only allowed to drive automatic vehicles.
• You can only drive certain vehicles within a category.
• Your vehicle needs special controls or adaptations.
• You have limits linked to trailers, motorcycles, passenger seats or vehicle weight.
• Your licence was exchanged, duplicated or has a special status.

The uploaded reference content also shows that driving licence codes appear on the reverse side of the licence and are linked to rules, restrictions, health-related conditions and vehicle modifications.

Where Are Driving Licence Codes Shown?

Driving licence codes are usually shown on the back of your photocard driving licence.

When you turn the licence over, you will see a section with vehicle categories and numbered columns. These columns explain what vehicles you may drive, when that entitlement started, when it ends, and whether any code applies.

Column 9: Vehicle Category

Column 9 shows the vehicle category.

This tells you the type of vehicle you may be entitled to drive. For example, category B usually relates to cars, while other categories may relate to mopeds, motorcycles, vans, minibuses, buses or larger vehicles.

Column 10: Start Date

Column 10 shows the date your entitlement started.

This means the date from which you became allowed to drive that vehicle category.

Column 11: End Date

Column 11 shows when that entitlement expires.

Some entitlements may expire earlier than others, especially for larger vehicles or categories that may need medical checks or renewal.

Column 12: Driving Licence Codes

Column 12 shows the driving licence codes.

This is the section many drivers miss. If a code appears in column 12, it means there is a condition or restriction attached to that vehicle category.

For example, if category B has code 78 beside it, the driver is restricted to automatic vehicles.

Why Driving Licence Codes Matter

Driving licence codes matter because they affect what you can legally drive.

A driver may have the correct vehicle category but still have a restriction attached to it. This means the category alone does not always tell the full story.

For example, a person may have category B for cars, but if code 78 is shown, they can only drive automatic cars. Another driver may have category B without code 78, meaning they may be allowed to drive both manual and automatic cars.

Driving licence codes can affect:

• Your legal entitlement to drive. A code may limit the type of vehicle you can drive or the conditions you must follow.
• Your insurance position. If you drive outside your licence conditions, your insurer may question whether you were properly entitled to drive.
• Your road safety. Codes linked to eyesight, hearing, adaptations or special controls exist because they help drivers stay safe.
• Your future vehicle choices. Passing in an automatic car may limit you later if you want to drive a manual vehicle.

Driving Licence Codes vs Driving Licence Categories

Driving licence codes and driving licence categories are not the same.

What Is a Driving Licence Category?

A driving licence category tells you what type of vehicle you may drive.

GOV.UK lists different licence categories for mopeds, motorcycles, cars, medium-sized vehicles, large vehicles, minibuses and buses.

Examples include:

• Category AM for mopeds.
• Category A for motorcycles.
• Category B for cars.
• Category C1 for medium-sized vehicles.
• Category D1 for minibuses.

What Is a Driving Licence Code?

A driving licence code tells you if there is a condition attached to a category.

For example:

Category B means cars.

Category B with code 78 means automatic cars only.

This is why drivers should check both the vehicle category and any code written next to it.

Common UK Driving Licence Codes and What They Mean

Below are important UK driving licence codes explained in a clear heading-and-paragraph format.

Code 01: Eyesight Correction

Code 01 means eyesight correction.

This usually means the driver must wear glasses or contact lenses when driving. It is one of the most common and important codes for learner drivers.

Drivers must be able to read a number plate from 20 metres away. GOV.UK confirms that glasses or contact lenses can be worn if needed to meet this requirement.

If code 01 is on your licence, you should wear your glasses or lenses during lessons, private practice, your test and everyday driving.

Code 02: Hearing or Communication Aid

Code 02 means hearing or communication aid.

This may apply where the driver uses hearing support or another communication aid. It does not automatically stop someone from driving, but it shows that the aid forms part of the driver’s licence condition.

Code 10: Modified Transmission

Code 10 means modified transmission.

This may apply where the vehicle’s transmission system has been changed so the driver can operate it safely.

Code 15: Modified Clutch

Code 15 means modified clutch.

This may apply where the clutch has been changed or adapted for the driver’s needs.

Code 20: Modified Braking Systems

Code 20 means modified braking systems.

This code may apply where the braking system has been adapted, such as for a driver who needs alternative braking controls.

Code 25: Modified Accelerator Systems

Code 25 means modified accelerator systems.

This may apply where the accelerator has been adapted for safe and comfortable vehicle control.

Code 30: Combined Braking and Accelerator Systems

Code 30 means combined braking and accelerator systems.

This code applies to licences issued before 28 November 2016. It relates to vehicles where braking and acceleration controls are combined.

Code 31: Pedal Adaptations and Pedal Safeguards

Code 31 means pedal adaptations and pedal safeguards.

This may apply where the pedals have been repositioned, adapted or protected to help the driver use the vehicle safely.

Code 32: Combined Service Brake and Accelerator Systems

Code 32 means combined service brake and accelerator systems.

This is another adaptation-related code and is linked to modified vehicle controls.

Code 33: Combined Brake, Accelerator and Steering Systems

Code 33 means combined service brake, accelerator and steering systems.

This code applies where several key driving controls are adapted together.

Code 35: Modified Control Layouts

Code 35 means modified control layouts.

This means the normal layout of the vehicle controls has been changed for the driver.

Code 40: Modified Steering

Code 40 means modified steering.

This may apply where the steering system has been adapted to help the driver control the vehicle safely.

Code 42: Modified Rear-View Mirrors

Code 42 means modified rear-view mirror or mirrors.

This may apply where the vehicle needs a different mirror setup to improve visibility and safe observation.

Code 43: Modified Driving Seats

Code 43 means modified driving seats.

This may apply where the seat has been changed for position, support, reach or access to controls.

Motorcycle-Related Driving Licence Codes

Some codes mainly apply to motorcycles or riders with specific restrictions.

Code 44: Modifications to Motorcycles

Code 44 means motorcycle modifications.

This code can include several detailed restrictions, such as an adapted front wheel brake, adapted rear wheel brake, adapted accelerator, adjusted manual transmission, adjusted mirrors, adapted foot rest or adapted hand grip.

It can also include seat height changes so the rider can place both feet on the ground while seated. This can be important for balance and control when stopping or standing.

Code 45: Motorcycle Only with Sidecar

Code 45 means motorcycle only with sidecar.

If this code appears, the motorcycle entitlement is restricted and should be followed exactly.

Code 46: Tricycles Only

Code 46 means tricycles only for licences issued before 29 June 2014.

This is a specific restriction and should be checked carefully before driving or riding.

Licence History Codes

Some codes explain the history or status of the licence rather than a driving restriction.

Code 70: Exchange of Licence

Code 70 means exchange of licence.

This may appear when a driver has exchanged a licence from another country or previous licensing system.

Code 71: Duplicate of Licence

Code 71 means duplicate of licence.

This may appear when a replacement licence has been issued because the original was lost, stolen, damaged or replaced.

Automatic and Vehicle Restriction Codes

These codes are especially important for learner drivers and new drivers.

Code 78: Restricted to Vehicles with Automatic Transmission

Code 78 means automatic vehicles only.

If you pass your driving test in an automatic car, your licence will usually show this code. It means you can drive automatic vehicles, but not manual vehicles.

To drive a manual car legally, you would need to pass a manual driving test.

This is one of the main reasons learners should think carefully before choosing automatic or manual lessons.

Code 79: Restricted to Vehicles Shown on the Licence

Code 79 means restricted to vehicles that match the specifications shown in brackets on the licence.

This code can mean different things depending on the bracketed information. Always read the full wording beside the code.

Code 79(2): Restricted to Category AM Vehicles

Code 79(2) means restricted to category AM vehicles of the three-wheel or light quadricycle type.

Code 79(3): Restricted to Tricycles

Code 79(3) means restricted to tricycles.

This restriction limits the driver to that specific vehicle type.

Trailer, Weight and Larger Vehicle Codes

Some driving licence codes relate to towing, vehicle size, passenger seats or larger vehicle use.

Code 96: Vehicle and Trailer Combination

Code 96 means the driver is allowed to drive a vehicle and trailer where the trailer weighs at least 750kg, and the combined weight of the vehicle and trailer is between 3,500kg and 4,250kg.

This code matters if you plan to tow a caravan, trailer or heavier load.

Code 97: Not Authorised for Certain C1 Vehicles

Code 97 means the driver is not authorised to drive category C1 vehicles that fall within certain tachograph rules.

This is more relevant to larger vehicles and commercial-type driving.

Code 101: Not for Hire or Reward

Code 101 means not for hire or reward.

This means the vehicle entitlement cannot be used to make money by carrying passengers or goods.

This can matter for private hire, taxi, delivery or paid transport work.

Code 102: Drawbar Trailers Only

Code 102 means drawbar trailers only.

This is a specific towing restriction.

Code 105: Vehicle Not More Than 5.5 Metres Long

Code 105 means the vehicle must not be more than 5.5 metres long.

Code 106: Restricted to Vehicles with Automatic Transmissions

Code 106 means restricted to vehicles with automatic transmissions.

This is another automatic-transmission restriction.

Code 107: Not More Than 8,250kg

Code 107 means the vehicle must not be more than 8,250kg.

Code 108: Subject to Minimum Age Requirements

Code 108 means the driver must meet the minimum age requirement before using that entitlement.

Passenger and Special Control Codes

Some codes apply to passenger limits, mobility transport or special controls.

Code 110: Limited to Transporting People with Restricted Mobility

Code 110 means the vehicle use is limited to transporting people with restricted mobility.

Code 111: Limited to 16 Passenger Seats

Code 111 means the vehicle is limited to 16 passenger seats.

Code 113: Limited to 16 Passenger Seats Except for Automatics

Code 113 means limited to 16 passenger seats except for automatics.

Code 114: Special Controls Required for Safe Driving

Code 114 means special controls are required for safe driving.

This may apply where the vehicle needs adapted controls for the driver to operate it safely.

Other Important Driving Licence Codes

Code 115: Organ Donor

Code 115 means organ donor.

This is not a driving restriction. It is information recorded on the licence.

Code 118: Start Date Is for Earliest Entitlement

Code 118 means the start date shown is for the earliest entitlement.

Code 119: Weight Limit Does Not Apply

Code 119 means the weight limit for the vehicle does not apply.

Code 121: Restricted to Conditions in the Secretary of State’s Notice

Code 121 means the driver is restricted to conditions stated in the Secretary of State’s notice.

Code 122: Valid After CBT

Code 122 means valid after successful completion of Compulsory Basic Training, also known as CBT.

This is usually linked to moped or motorcycle entitlement.

Code 123: Limited to Not More Than 5.5 Metres Except for Automatics

Code 123 means the vehicle is limited to not more than 5.5 metres long except for automatics.

Code 124: Limited to Drawbar Trailers Only Except for Automatics

Code 124 means limited to drawbar trailers only except for automatics.

Code 125: Tricycle

Code 125 means tricycle.

Most Important Codes for Learner Drivers

Learners do not need to memorise every licence code. However, a few codes are especially important.

Code 01 Matters If You Wear Glasses or Contact Lenses

If you need eyesight correction, this code is important because driving safely depends on clear vision.

You should:

• Wear glasses or contact lenses for every driving lesson if you need them.
• Use them during private practice, not only during formal lessons.
• Wear them on your practical test if they are needed to meet the eyesight standard.
• Check your eyesight regularly if you notice changes in your vision.
• Avoid driving if you cannot clearly read road signs, number plates or hazards.

Code 78 Matters If You Learn in an Automatic Car

Code 78 is important because it limits what you can drive after passing.

You should understand that:

• Passing in an automatic car usually gives you an automatic-only licence.
• You cannot legally drive a manual car with an automatic-only licence.
• You would need to pass a manual driving test to remove the automatic restriction.
• Automatic lessons may be suitable for many learners, but the licence restriction should be understood before choosing.

Code 79 Needs Careful Reading

Code 79 can be different depending on the details written beside it.

You should:

• Read the full wording next to the code.
• Check any bracketed information carefully.
• Avoid assuming that one code means the same thing for every driver.
• Use GOV.UK or DVLA guidance if the restriction is not clear.

What Happens If You Ignore Driving Licence Codes?

Ignoring a driving licence code can cause serious problems.

You may be driving outside your licence conditions, which can affect your legal position and insurance.

For example:

• Driving a manual car with code 78 may mean you are driving outside your entitlement.
• Driving without required glasses or contact lenses when code 01 applies may mean you are not meeting your licence condition.
• Driving a vehicle outside a code 79 restriction may mean you are using a vehicle you are not properly entitled to drive.
• Using a vehicle for paid work when code 101 applies may breach the licence condition.

The safest approach is to check your licence before driving a new vehicle, towing a trailer, changing from automatic to manual, or using a vehicle for work.

How to Check Your Driving Licence Information Online

You can check your licence information online through GOV.UK.

The official “View or share your driving licence information” service lets drivers see what information DVLA holds about their licence and create a check code to share their driving record, for example when hiring a car.

This can be useful if:

• You are unsure what vehicles you can drive.
• You want to check your restrictions.
• You need to share your licence details with a car hire company.
• An employer needs to check your driving entitlement.
• You have penalty points or disqualifications to confirm.
• You recently passed your driving test and want to check your updated entitlement.

GOV.UK also provides a service to check someone’s driving licence information, such as vehicles they can drive, penalty points or disqualifications, when permission is given.

Conclusion

We believe understanding your driving licence is just as important as learning how to drive. Driving licence codes explain the conditions attached to your licence. Although they may look like small numbers, they can affect what vehicles you can drive, whether you must wear glasses or contact lenses, whether you are restricted to automatic vehicles, and whether special vehicle rules apply.

The most important codes for most learners are code 01 (eyesight correction), code 78 (automatic vehicles only), and code 79 (vehicle-specific restrictions). Knowing what these codes mean helps you avoid driving outside your licence conditions and become a more informed, responsible driver.

Before getting behind the wheel, always check the back of your driving licence. Review the vehicle category, entitlement dates and any codes shown in column 12. At Suja Driving School, our instructors help learners understand these important details alongside developing safe, confident driving skills. If you’re ready to start your journey, you can book driving course online. Learning both the practical and legal aspects of driving will help you stay compliant and drive with confidence on UK roads.

FAQs About Driving Licence Codes

What are driving licence codes?

Driving licence codes are numbers printed on the back of your licence. They show conditions or restrictions linked to your driving, such as needing glasses, driving automatic vehicles only or using adapted controls.

Where are driving licence codes on a UK licence?

They are usually shown on the back of the photocard licence in column 12. This column lists any codes linked to the vehicle category on the same line.

What does code 01 mean on a driving licence?

Code 01 means eyesight correction. This usually means you must wear glasses or contact lenses when driving.

What does code 78 mean on a driving licence?

Code 78 means restricted to vehicles with automatic transmission. If this code is on your licence, you cannot drive a manual car unless you pass a manual driving test.

What does code 79 mean on a driving licence?

Code 79 means restricted to vehicles that match the specifications shown on your licence. The exact restriction depends on the details written beside the code.

Is code 115 a driving restriction?

No. Code 115 means organ donor. It is not a restriction on driving.

Can driving licence codes appear on a provisional licence?

Yes. Codes can appear on a provisional licence if conditions apply before you pass your test. This may include eyesight correction or vehicle adaptation requirements.

Do driving licence codes affect insurance?

They can. If you drive outside your licence conditions, your insurer may question whether you were legally entitled to drive that vehicle or drive in that way.

Can I drive a manual car if I passed in an automatic?

Usually no. If you passed in an automatic car, your licence will normally show code 78. To drive a manual car, you need to pass a manual driving test.

How can I check my driving licence codes?

You can check the back of your photocard licence. You can also use the official GOV.UK service to view or share your driving licence information online.

Ready to get started?