Driving Licence Codes: Meaning Of 79 3, 122 And 118 Rules
I passed my test, but my photocard licence still has extra letters and numbers. These are driving licence codes, and they can limit what vehicles I can legally drive. If I ignore them, I could face fines, penalty points, or an invalid insurance claim. In this guide, I explain 79 3, 122, and 118, plus how I use a DVLA check code and check my driving licence points and status online.
Key Takeaways
- Driving licence codes are printed on my UK photocard licence and can restrict what I can legally drive.
- I can use the DVLA check code so employers and hire companies can verify my licence details online.
- I can check my penalty points and licence status through the GOV.UK portal before hiring, towing, or upgrading.
- Code 79 3 usually relates to restricted motorcycle entitlements and can differ from full Category A.
- Code 122 often reflects a theory test requirement being met and may affect upgrades.
- Code 118 typically links to specific entitlement conditions, such as weight limits or category rules.
- Code 101 often limits driving to non hire and reward purposes.
- Code 78 restricts me to automatic vehicles only, but I can usually upgrade later.
- Code 01 relates to eyesight correction requirements and legal obligations while driving.
- Understanding categories like B, BE, A, C1 helps me avoid fines, invalid insurance, and denied vehicle hire.
Table of Contents
Driving Licence Codes
Driving licence codes are extra letters and numbers shown on my UK photocard licence. They act like conditions attached to my licence. In practice, these codes tell me what I can drive, what I cannot drive yet, or what extra rules apply, such as eyesight correction or automatic‑only driving. Source: GOV.UK Driving Licence Codes guidance.
It is important that I separate restriction codes from entitlement categories. Entitlement categories (like B, BE, A, C1) describe broad permissions, such as cars, motorcycles, towing, or medium‑sized vehicles. Restriction codes (like 78, 01, 122) describe conditions that apply to my entitlement, such as “automatic only” or “must wear corrective lenses.”
So what does this mean for me? If I am hiring a vehicle, towing a trailer, starting a new job that involves driving, or planning to upgrade my licence, I should review my printed codes and confirm them against my official DVLA record before I commit.
Your Licence Check Workflow (Do This First)
- Confirm my goal: hire a vehicle, tow a trailer, upgrade from automatic, ride a motorcycle, or drive for work.
- Check my licence on GOV.UK and note any codes and endorsements.
- Match my goal to the right category/code using the tables below.
- Generate a DVLA check code if I need to share details with an employer or hire company.
- Take action within 7 days (book an eye test if code 01, book a manual test if code 78, or plan an upgrade if code 101 applies).
| Table 1: Common Driving Licence Codes and What They Usually Mean |
|—|—|
| Code | What It Usually Means | What It Typically Restricts or Requires |
| 79 3 | Restricted motorcycle entitlement (often after test conversions) | Limits vehicles compared to full Category A; confirm exact scope on my record |
| 122 | Theory test requirement completed | Often linked to certain entitlements or upgrades; may not be removable |
| 118 | Specific entitlement condition | Often relates to vehicle weight or category conditions; check DVLA record for details |
| 101 | Non hire and reward | Driving not for payment or reward; upgrade if needed for work |
| 78 | Automatic vehicles only | Cannot drive manual vehicles; upgrade by passing an additional test |
| 01 | Eyesight correction required | Must wear glasses or contact lenses while driving |
| Table 2: Code to Real‑Life Scenario Mapping (What Each Code Usually Means in Practice) |
|—|—|
| Scenario | Likely Codes to Check | What I Should Do Next |
| Hiring a van for work | 101, 118 | Confirm non hire and reward status on GOV.UK; generate a DVLA check code for the hire company |
| Towing a trailer | BE, 118 | Confirm BE entitlement and trailer weight limits; check vehicle handbook for towing capacity |
| Upgrading from automatic to manual | 78 | Book a manual practical test; verify restrictions on GOV.UK before booking |
| Buying a motorcycle | 79 3, A1/A2/A | Confirm whether I hold full A or a restricted stage; plan next progression step |
| Insurance renewal | 01, any endorsements | Confirm eyesight condition and any points; resolve any compliance gaps before renewing |
In practice: When I needed to hire a van for work, I first checked my licence on GOV.UK to confirm whether code 101 applied. That saved me from booking a vehicle I was not legally entitled to drive for paid work.
How Do You Use A DVLA Check Code For Driving Licence Codes Verification?
A DVLA check code is a short, time‑limited code generated through the DVLA process. It allows third parties, such as employers, hire companies, or insurers, to view selected details from my driving licence in a controlled way.
Here’s how I usually do it:
- I go to the official GOV.UK service for viewing my driving licence.
- I log in securely using my licence details and identity checks.
- I generate a DVLA check code. The code typically has an expiry time, so it is only valid for a limited period.
- I share the code with the organisation that needs to verify my licence. They enter it into their system to view relevant licence details.
A key point: a DVLA check code is not the same as the driving licence codes printed on my card. The printed codes are my licence’s restrictions and conditions. The check code is a verification tool that lets others access my licence data for checking entitlements, endorsements, and status.
Common mistakes to avoid: I never share my check code with unverified organisations, I never reuse an expired code, and I never assume the check code shows everything about my licence. It shows what the verifying organisation’s system is set up to view.
Selling Point: If I want to avoid costly application errors and speed up verification, I use our step‑by‑step DVLA check guide service. It walks me through generating the check code correctly, reading my licence codes, and confirming my entitlements before I hire a vehicle or apply for an upgrade.
So what does this mean for me? If I am applying for a driving job, hiring a vehicle, or renewing insurance, I generate my check code and confirm my licence details on GOV.UK first.
Unsure What Your Driving Licence Codes Really Mean?
Your UK photocard shows codes like 79 3, 122, 118, 101, 78 or 01 that can restrict what you can legally drive. Discover exactly what they mean and avoid fines, insurance issues or denied hires.
How Do You Check My Driving Licence Points And Status Online?
Yes, I can check my penalty points and driving licence status online through the official GOV.UK service. This is the most reliable way to confirm endorsements, expiry dates, and whether any restrictions appear on my record.
Here is the exact process I follow:
- I visit the GOV.UK View Driving Licence service.
- I sign in using the required details (licence number and identity checks).
- I review my licence summary, including endorsements and any codes listed.
- I save or screenshot the results for my records before applying for insurance, hiring a vehicle, or upgrading a category.
Driving licence codes may reflect endorsements or restrictions that affect what I can drive. For example, a restriction can limit me to automatic vehicles, or a condition can require corrective lenses. Points usually remain visible on my driving record for a set period, depending on the endorsement type and date. If I see something unclear, I treat it as a sign to confirm the meaning of the code before making any driving plans.
In practice: After receiving a fixed penalty notice, I checked my points and endorsements on GOV.UK within minutes. Seeing the endorsement details early helped me plan my next steps, including whether I needed additional training.
So what does this mean for me? If I have received any penalty notice, or if I am about to hire a vehicle or renew insurance, checking my status online is the quickest way to avoid compliance surprises.
What Does Driving Licence Code 79 3 Mean?
Driving licence code 79 3 is commonly associated with restricted motorcycle entitlements. In many cases, it appears when licences are converted after tests or when I hold a restricted Category A entitlement rather than full Category A.
This code typically limits which motorcycles I can ride compared with a full Category A licence. The exact vehicles allowed can depend on my test history and how my licence was issued, so I check my full DVLA record rather than relying on general descriptions.
A common confusion is mixing up restricted A codes with full Category A entitlement. Full Category A allows me to ride larger motorcycles without the same restrictions. Restricted codes can cap engine size, power output, or the stage I have reached in the progressive access route (progressive access means moving from smaller bikes to larger bikes through staged categories).
Example scenarios where code 79 3 may appear include: converting an older licence entitlement, upgrading through A1 and A2 stages, or receiving a restricted outcome after a practical test. If I am unsure, I use the GOV.UK view service to confirm my exact category and any attached conditions.
Interpreting motorcycle licence restrictions, suggested expert type: motorcycle instructor or DVLA licensing specialist
Buyer Beware: I do not assume “restricted” means “safe to ignore.” Riding outside my entitlement can affect insurance and legal liability. I confirm my exact category and any restrictions on GOV.UK before choosing a motorcycle.
So what does this mean for me? If I am buying a motorcycle or upgrading my licence, I check whether I hold full A or a restricted entitlement before I ride.
What Does Code 122 Mean On Driving Licence?
Code 122 often relates to successful completion of a theory test requirement. In many cases, it is added to show that a required theory component has been met as part of gaining or upgrading an entitlement.
I usually see code 122 when I have completed the theory test linked to a particular licence category or stage. It can act as a marker that helps DVLA and employers confirm my progress.
Whether I can remove or upgrade this restriction depends on the context. In some cases, code 122 is informational rather than a hard restriction, and it may remain on my licence even after I complete further steps. The best approach is to check my GOV.UK record and confirm what additional tests or entitlements I need to progress.
Expert Tip: I treat code 122 as a progress marker, not a stop sign. I use my GOV.UK licence view to see what category or stage it supports, then I plan the next practical test or entitlement upgrade.
So what does this mean for me? If I am planning an upgrade (for example, moving to a higher motorcycle stage or a new vehicle category), I check whether code 122 appears and what additional requirements I still need to meet.
Join Thousands Who Verified Their DVLA Licence Safely
Like many drivers, confirm your full entitlements, penalty points and restriction codes using the official GOV.UK process before hiring, towing or upgrading. Get expert clarity on categories B, BE, A and C1.
What Does Driving Licence Code 118 Allow You To Do?
Driving licence code 118 usually indicates a specific entitlement condition. This can relate to vehicle weight limits, category‑specific rules, or other conditions that apply to my driving permissions.
In practice, code 118 can affect which vehicles fall within my entitlement. For example, it may connect to limits on maximum authorised mass (maximum authorised mass is the weight limit set for a vehicle, including its load). It may also be paired with a category that affects towing or commercial use.
Code 118 may be reviewed or updated if my circumstances change. This can happen after passing an additional test, updating my licence details, or if DVLA adjusts my record after a review. If I am planning to drive a new vehicle type, I confirm whether code 118 applies and whether I need to upgrade my category.
Vehicle entitlement conditions and weight limits, suggested expert type: driving instructor or transport compliance advisor
So what does this mean for me? If I am considering a larger vehicle, towing, or a work‑related driving role, I check whether code 118 appears and confirm the exact limits on my GOV.UK licence view.
What Does 101 Code On Driving Licence Restrict?
Code 101 typically limits driving to non hire and reward purposes. This means I can drive for personal use, but I cannot drive for payment or reward, such as carrying goods or passengers for money.
In practical terms, “hire and reward” often includes delivering goods for payment, taxi work, or driving passengers for a fee. If I use my vehicle for work and I am paid for driving, code 101 can make that activity outside my entitlement.
If I need to drive for work, I may need to upgrade my entitlement by passing additional tests or applying for the relevant category. Before starting any paid driving role, I check my licence on GOV.UK to confirm whether code 101 applies and what steps are required to remove or change that condition.
Buyer Beware: Some employers assume my licence is suitable for work driving. If code 101 applies, driving for reward can breach my licence conditions and may affect insurance coverage.
So what does this mean for me? If I am starting a job that involves driving, I confirm code 101 status first. If it applies, I plan an upgrade pathway before my first shift.
What Does Code 78 On Driving Licence Mean For Automatic Drivers?
Code 78 means I am restricted to automatic vehicles only. If my licence shows this code, I should not drive manual cars unless I later upgrade my entitlement.
This restriction can affect my future driving rights because it limits my licence to automatic transmissions. If I later want to drive manual vehicles, I usually need to pass an additional driving test in a manual car.
To remove the automatic restriction, I follow these typical steps:
- I confirm my current entitlement and any endorsements using the GOV.UK view service.
- I book a driving test for a manual vehicle with an approved driving instructor.
- I pass the practical driving test in a manual car; DVLA will update my licence details accordingly.
- I check my updated licence record to confirm the restriction has been removed.
In practice: A friend upgraded from automatic‑only after passing a manual practical test. The biggest time‑saver was confirming the exact code and endorsements on GOV.UK first, so they did not book a test that did not match their current licence status.
So what does this mean for me? If I plan to drive manual vehicles for work, travel, or towing, I confirm code 78 early and plan my manual test accordingly.
Download Your Driving Licence Codes Checklist
Instantly understand codes 79 3, 122, 118, 101, 78 and 01 plus category limits for cars, towing, motorcycles and medium vehicles. Match your goals to the right actions and stay compliant.
What Does 01 Mean On Driving Licence For Eyesight Requirements?
Code 01 relates to eyesight correction requirements. It means I must wear glasses or contact lenses while driving to meet the legal eyesight standard.
Legally, I must be able to meet the required eyesight standards to drive safely. If my licence shows code 01, I am expected to wear corrective lenses whenever I drive. This is not just a recommendation; it is a condition tied to my driving entitlement.
Failing to comply can have serious consequences. If I am involved in an incident and I was not wearing required corrective lenses, I could face penalties, increased liability, and issues with insurance claims. If my eyesight changes, I book an eye test promptly and update DVLA if my medical details need adjustment.
Eyesight standards and driving, suggested expert type: optometrist
So what does this mean for me? If my licence shows code 01, I keep my glasses or lenses with me every time I drive and schedule regular eye tests.
What Is Category B On Driving Licence?
Category B is the standard car entitlement. It allows me to drive most cars and light vans, subject to weight limits and other licence conditions.
Under Category B, typical rules include limits on the maximum authorised mass of the vehicle and passenger capacity. The exact details can depend on when I passed my test and any changes to licensing rules over time.
Drivers who passed before key licensing changes may have different towing or vehicle‑size permissions compared with those who passed more recently. If I am unsure, I check my DVLA record to confirm my Category B details and whether any additional codes apply.
So what does this mean for me? Before buying or hiring a larger vehicle, I confirm my Category B limits on GOV.UK so I do not accidentally exceed my entitlement.
What Is Category BE On Driving Licence For Trailer Entitlement?
Category BE covers towing permissions alongside my car entitlement. It allows me to tow a trailer, but there are limits on the combined weight of the vehicle and trailer. Source: GOV.UK Driving Licence Categories guidance
Key points include maximum authorised mass for trailers and the vehicle. If my trailer is heavy relative to my car, I may exceed limits even if I think I am within “normal” towing expectations.
Additional testing may be required in some cases, especially if I am upgrading or if my licence history does not already include BE. Before buying or hiring a trailer, I confirm my towing limits and whether BE appears on my record.
Expert Tip: I check my car’s towing capacity in the vehicle handbook as well as my licence. The lowest limit (licence or vehicle) determines what is legal.
| Table 3: Towing Decision Table (BE vs Not BE) |
|—|—|
| My Goal | What I Should Confirm | Likely Next Step |
| Tow a small trailer for personal use | Category B limits; trailer weight; vehicle handbook towing capacity | Confirm on GOV.UK; verify trailer weight before hitching |
| Tow a heavier trailer for work | BE entitlement; combined weight limits; code 118 | Confirm BE status; consider additional testing if needed |
| Unsure what I am allowed to tow | All codes and endorsements; towing limits in handbook | Use GOV.UK view service + handbook; seek advice if limits are unclear |
So what does this mean for me? If I plan to tow, I confirm BE status and weight limits on GOV.UK before I hitch up.
What Is A On Driving Licence For Motorcycle Riders?
Category A is the full motorcycle entitlement. It allows me to ride larger motorcycles without the restrictions that can apply at earlier stages.
Many riders progress through a staged route: A1, then A2, then A. This progressive access system is designed to build experience with smaller bikes before moving to more powerful machines.
Each stage has typical engine size and power restrictions. For example, A1 and A2 often cap power output or engine capacity, while full A removes many of those limits. If my licence shows restricted codes, I confirm whether I am still operating under A1/A2 limits rather than full A.
| Table 4: Motorcycle Category Progression (A1, A2, A) |
|—|—|
| Category | Typical Scope | Common Restrictions |
| A1 | Small motorcycles, entry stage | Lower engine capacity or power |
| A2 | Mid-range | Power output restrictions; age and conditions may apply |
| A | Full motorcycle entitlement | Fewer restrictions; confirm any printed codes on my licence |
So what does this mean for me? If I am buying a motorcycle, I confirm whether I hold full A or a restricted stage to avoid riding outside my entitlement.
What Is C1 License And When Is It Required?
A C1 licence entitlement allows me to drive medium‑sized vehicles, often used in commercial or work settings. It sits between Category B (cars) and larger commercial categories.
Typical thresholds include vehicle weight limits (often measured by maximum authorised mass). If I need to drive vehicles above the Category B limits but below the heavier commercial range, C1 may be required.
C1 applications often involve medical requirements, such as health declarations or medical assessments. If I am considering C1 for work, I check the exact thresholds and medical steps early so I can plan my application timeline.
| Table 5: Category B vs BE vs C1 (Quick Comparison) |
|—|—|
| Category | What I Can Drive | Key Limits to Check |
| B | Most cars and light vans | Vehicle weight and passenger limits |
| BE | Car plus trailer | Combined weight limits; trailer rules |
| C1 | Medium‑sized vehicles | Weight thresholds; medical requirements |
Selling Point: To make this easier, I download our driving licence codes interpretation checklist. It helps me confirm my entitlements, spot restrictions like 78 or 01, and check whether I need BE or C1 before hiring or upgrading vehicles.
So what does this mean for me? If I am starting a job that involves driving vans or‑sized vehicles—
What Is Driving Licence Number And How Is It Structured?
My driving licence number is a unique identifier formatted in a way that reflects personal data. In the UK, it is typically constructed using elements such as my surname and date of birth, along with additional digits for uniqueness.
The licence number links to my DVLA record, which holds details like categories, endorsements, and any restriction codes. Because it is tied to my identity, it is important that I protect it.
I am cautious with my licence number to reduce fraud or identity misuse risk. I do not share it publicly. I only provide it through GOV.UK channels or organisations that use secure verification processes.
What Are The New Driving Licence Rules Affecting Driving Licence Codes?
Recent regulatory adjustments can impact categories, towing rights, and how entitlements are issued or updated. These changes may affect rules around trailer weights, motorcycle progression, or commercial vehicle thresholds.
In some cases, updates may change entitlements automatically if DVLA revises how a rule applies. In other cases, I may need to take additional tests or update my licence details. It is wise to review my driving record regularly using the GOV.UK view service so I stay compliant and avoid surprises when I hire a vehicle or apply for a new category.
Frequently Asked Questions About Driving Licence Codes
How Do Driving Licence Codes Affect What Vehicles You Can Legally Drive In The UK?
Driving licence codes restrict or condition my entitlements. For example, code 78 limits me to automatic vehicles, code 01 requires corrective lenses, and code 101 can restrict driving to non hire and reward. If I ignore the conditions shown on my licence, I may face fines, penalty points, or insurance issues.
What Are Driving Licence Categories And How Do They Differ From Driving Licence Codes?
Categories (such as B, BE, A, C1) set the broad permissions for cars, towing, motorcycles, or medium‑sized vehicles. Driving licence codes are conditions attached to those categories, such as eyesight correction (01) or automatic‑only driving (78). Categories set the “what,” while codes set the “under what conditions.”
