If you’ve ever glanced at the back of your photocard licence, you’ve likely seen a string of numbers under column 12. While many drivers never give these codes a second thought, understanding them is essential. These DVLA licence codes aren’t just random digits—they outline specific conditions and restrictions that apply to your ability to drive legally in the UK just like different licence categories listed. Failing to follow them could lead to fines or even penalty points.
In this blog, we’ll break down what UK driving licence codes mean, how to read them, and why you should always pay attention to what’s printed on your licence. We’ll also answer common questions and explain everything from medical conditions to vehicle adaptations.
What Do Driving Licence Codes Mean?
The DVLA website includes driving licence codes to show what limitations or requirements apply to your licence. These codes appear on the reverse side of your licence in column 12. They often refer to medical needs, vehicle types, modifications, or legal stipulations. For example, if you need to wear glasses to drive, you’ll see code 01. If you’re restricted to automatic vehicles, code 78 will be there.
These codes apply across the UK, although some variations may exist in Northern Ireland. Moreover, they’re not just suggestions—they’re legal requirements.
Let’s explore the full list of driving licence codes UK drivers may find on their cards.
DVLA Driving Licence Codes and Their Meanings
- 01 – Eyesight correction (glasses or contact lenses)
- 02 – Hearing or communication aid
- 10 – Modified transmission
- 15 – Modified clutch
- 20 – Modified braking systems
- 25 – Modified accelerator systems
- 30 – Combined braking and accelerator systems (pre-28 Nov 2016)
- 31 – Pedal adaptations and safeguards
- 32 – Combined service brake and accelerator systems
- 33 – Combined service brake, accelerator, and steering systems
- 35 – Modified control layouts
- 40 – Modified steering
- 42 – Modified rear-view mirrors
- 43 – Modified driving seats
- 44 – Modifications to motorcycles, such as:
- 44 (1) – Single operated brake
- 44 (2) – Adapted front wheel brake
- 44 (3) – Adapted rear wheel brake
- 44 (4) – Adapted accelerator
- 44 (5) – Adjusted manual transmission and clutch
- 44 (6) – Adjusted rear-view mirrors
- 44 (7) – Adjusted indicators and brake light
- 44 (8) – Seat height allowing both feet on the ground
- 44 (11) – Adapted foot rest
- 44 (12) – Adapted hand grip
- 45 – Motorcycles with sidecar only
- 46 – Tricycles only (pre-29 June 2014 licences)
- 70 – Exchange of foreign licence
- 71 – Duplicate of licence
- 78 – Automatic transmission only
- 79 – Vehicles as specified in brackets (e.g. 79(3): tricycles)
- 79 (2) – AM category three-wheel or light quadricycle
- 79 (3) – Tricycles only
- 96 – Car and trailer (combined 3,500–4,250kg)
- 97 – Cannot drive C1 category with tachograph requirement
- 101 – Not for hire or reward
- 102 – Drawbar trailers only
- 105 – Vehicle length no more than 5.5m
- 106 – Automatic transmission only
- 107 – Vehicle weight limit not over 8,250kg
- 108 – Subject to minimum age requirements
- 110 – Transporting persons with restricted mobility only
- 111 – Limited to 16 passenger seats
- 113 – 16 passenger seats except for automatics
- 114 – Special controls required for safe driving
- 115 – Organ donor
- 118 – Start date for earliest driving entitlement
- 119 – Vehicle weight limit does not apply
- 121 – Conditions specified by the Secretary of State
- 122 – Valid after completing CBT (Compulsory Basic Training)
- 125 – Tricycles only (pre-29 June 2014)
Medical and Additional Restrictions
In addition to the codes above, other codes may refer to specific medical limitations or vehicle adaptations, such as:
- 003 – Prosthesis or orthosis of the limbs
- 005.01 – Daytime driving only
- 005.03 – No passengers allowed
- 005.06 – No trailer allowed
- 005.08 – No alcohol permitted
These codes reflect serious medical or physical conditions and must be strictly followed.
Why Driving Licence Codes Matter
Ignoring any DVLA driving licence codes can have real consequences. Police might not pull you over for every minor issue, but if you’re found violating a code like 01 or 78, you could face fines, points on your licence, or worse.
Let’s say you’re supposed to wear corrective lenses and you’re caught driving without them—you could get an on-the-spot fine of £100. In more serious breaches, you may receive 3–6 points and a fine of up to £1,000. Worse still, you may invalidate your insurance.
What Does 78 Mean on a Driving Licence?
This is one of the most commonly searched codes. Code 78 means you’re only allowed to drive vehicles with automatic transmission. If you’re caught driving a manual vehicle, you’re breaking the law.
What Is Driving Licence Code 79 (3)?
Code 79 (3) restricts you to driving tricycles only. If your licence shows this, you’re not permitted to drive motorcycles or quad bikes—even if they seem similar.
What Does FKQ Mean on a Driving Licence?
Although not a restriction code, FKQ refers to specific entitlements related to mopeds and quad bikes under older licensing terms. It’s largely phased out now but may still appear on some older licences.
What Is Driving Licence Code 122?
Code 122 confirms you’ve completed CBT (Compulsory Basic Training), allowing you to legally ride a moped. Without this code, you can’t ride on UK roads even if you’re within the age bracket.
What Does Driving Licence Code 118 Mean?
Code 118 indicates the date you first became entitled to drive a particular category. This can be important for insurance purposes and driving abroad.
How Does the DVLA Decide Which Codes Go on Your Licence?
When you apply for a provisional or full licence, you must declare any medical conditions. The DVLA then assesses this information alongside your test results and training completion to determine which codes apply. Updates to your medical condition or vehicle modifications should also be reported—failure to do so may result in a fine of up to £1,000.
Can You Check Your Driving Licence Codes Online?
Absolutely. The DVLA allows you to check your full driving record using your licence number, postcode, and National Insurance number. From there, you can review your driving licence codes, entitlements, and any penalty points.
Final Thoughts
Understanding driving licence codes is more than just decoding numbers—it’s about ensuring you’re compliant with UK law and keeping yourself and others safe. These codes are an integral part of your UK driving licence and should never be ignored.
From code 01 for glasses to code 122 for moped training, each licence code plays a crucial role. Whether you’re wondering “what does 78 mean on a driving licence?” or “what are DVLA licence codes for?”—this guide should have answered it all. So next time you check your licence, flip it over and take a moment to understand those small numbers—they might just save you from a big fine.