Rick Ross -- Judge OK's Travel But Only for Work (VIDEO)

Rick Ross can finally get back on his "Boss" grind ... a judge gave him approval to start traveling on biz trips, but there are several restrictions -- including an ankle monitor.

Ross was in an Atlanta court Thursday a happy man -- since his travel restrictions were lifted. Ross has been unable to leave town since he posted $2 million bail last month in his assault case.

In court, Rick was told he must give the D.A. 5 days notice of any travel, including flight times, where he's staying, and why he has to go. He gets a 2-hour grace period to get to his house, once he returns to Atlanta ... so he better pray for NO traffic.

BTW ... Rick Ross' voluptuous friend was in court today. Just a hunch ... she'll be on the business trips too.