How to Get (or Renew) a Driver’s License in the Philippines

Last Updated on – Dec 14, 2022 @ 6:20 pm

Getting a Driver’s License in the Philippines may be confusing for some. In this Guide, we will try to shed some light on the details regarding the steps to take and what you need to know before getting your own license.

Hopefully, after reading this article, you will be equipped with the right knowledge to make this process much simpler.

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What is a Driver’s License?

A Driver’s License is a government ID issued by the Land Transportation Office of the Philippines (LTO) that permits individuals to drive a motor vehicle.

Related: How to get a Philippine National ID

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How long is the Validity of LTO Philippine Driver’s License

A Driver’s License in the Philippines has a typical validity of 5 years while a student permit is only valid for 1 year. However, if you did not incur any bad record or traffic violation (this started in October 2021) you may extend your license’s validity up to 10 years.

But you need to take note that both the 10-year and 5-year license holders need to undergo what is called a Periodic Medical Examination (PME). This is to make sure that you, the license holder, are medically capable of operating a motor vehicle throughout your license’s validity. 

For holders with 10-year validity, PMEs are required within 60 days before your 4th and 7th birthdates from the issuance of your license. In addition to PMEs, you will be required to submit a medical examination each time you renew your license. 

On the other hand, 5-year driver’s license holders are required to take PMEs within 60 days before their 3rd birthdate from the issuance of the license.

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Types of Driver’s Licenses in the Philippines

There are 3 types of driver’s licenses in the Philippines. Their differences mainly depend on the requirements and the purpose of the license.

1. Student’s Permit

Everyone who wants to get a Professional or Non-Professional Driver’s License is required to get a Student Permit first.

The Student Permit or Student License authorizes you to drive a motor vehicle but you must be with someone who holds a valid Professional or Non-Professional Driver’s License. The student permit is only valid for 1 year and cannot be modified, revised, or renewed.

Qualifications

• You must be a Filipino citizen, 16 years old and above.
• If you are a foreigner, you must be at least 18 years old, have been staying in the Philippines for at least 1 month, and has proof of stay for at least 6 months.
• If you’re a holder of a driver’s license that has expired for 10 years or more, you are no longer allowed to drive and are required by the LTO to apply for a student permit again.
• You must be able to read and write in English, Filipino, or any applicable local dialect.
• You must be physically and mentally fit to drive a motor vehicle.
• You must have no unsettled traffic violation.
• You must have attended at least 15 hours of theoretical driving lessons from any LTO-accredited driving school. 

Student Permit Requirements

• Fully accomplished Driver’s License Application Form. This is also known as the Application for Driver’s License (ADL) form.
• PSA-authenticated birth certificate (original and photocopy).
• Original and photocopy of any government-issued ID with photo and signature of the applicant.
• Taxpayer’s Identification Number or TIN (if you’re employed).
• Medical examination certificate (online only/electronically transmitted by the clinic).
• Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) certificates (electronically transmitted).
• For minors, you will need an original copy of the duly notarized parent’s consent or an affidavit of the guardian that authorizes the applicant to apply for a student permit. Also, 1 valid government ID of the consenting parent/Guardian is needed (original and photocopy).
• For married women, you need a PSA-authenticated marriage contract (original and photocopy).
• For Foreigners, Applicant’s passport containing the following (original and photocopy):
  • Entry date of at least one (1) month
  • Visa duration of at least six (6) months from the date of application. Or, if born in the Philippines, submit a PSA-authenticated birth certificate (original and photocopy)

Student’s Permit Fees

• Birth certificate: Php 330 to Php 365 (if you don’t have a copy yet)
• Medical examination: Php 450 to Php 500
• Theoretical Driving Course: FREE to Php 4,500 (average of Php 1,500)
• Student Permit Fee: Php 317.63

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2. Non-Professional

A Non-Professional Driver’s License gives you the authority to drive/operate a PRIVATE motor vehicle with up to 4,500 GVW (Gross Vehicle Weight).

Holders of this license will be able to drive vehicles with both manual and automatic transmissions. Some of the vehicle types included in the weight limit are sedans, minivans, pickups, SUVs, and other passenger vehicles.

Qualifications

• You must be a Filipino citizen who is at least seventeen (17) years old.
• If a foreigner, you must be at least eighteen (18) years old.
• You must be physically and mentally able to drive a motor vehicle. However, just because you have a medical condition doesn’t mean you’ll be completely barred from driving a vehicle. You will be allowed to drive as long as your physician provides a condition code to be added to your driver’s license.
• You must be able to read and write English, Filipino, or any applicable local dialect.
• You must be a holder of a valid Student Permit issued at least thirty-one (31) days before the Non-Professional Driver’s License application.
• You must have no unsettled traffic violation.
• If you’re a holder of an expired foreign driver’s license or a Non-Professional driver’s license that has been expired for more than 2 years, you’re not qualified to renew anymore and must apply for a new one.
• You must have completed a minimum of 8 hours of practical driving lessons given by an LTO-accredited and TESDA-certified driving school (LTO will be offering the same services but at a lower rate for those who cannot afford to enroll in a driving school).
• Must have passed the required written and practical exam after completing the 8-hour practical driving course.

Non-Professional Driver’s License Requirements

• Completely filled out Driver’s License Application Form. Also known as the Application for Driver’s License (ADL) form.
• Original copy of valid Student Permit issued at least 31 days before the date of application.
• Taxpayer’s Identification Number or TIN (if you’re employed).
• Medical examination certificate (online only/electronically transmitted by the clinic).
• Practical Driving Course (PDC) certificates (electronically transmitted) to prove that you have completed the required practical instruction given by LTO or any LTO-accredited driving schools. 
• For applicants aged 17 years old –
• Original copy of the duly notarized parent’s consent or an affidavit of the guardian authorizing the applicant to secure/apply for a student permit.
• 1 valid government-issued ID of consenting parent or guardian with photo and signature (original and photocopy).

Non-Professional Driver’s License Fees

• The Practical Driving Course takes up the bulk of the expenses with prices ranging from Php 3,500+ (manual, 4 wheels) and Php 5,500+ (automatic, 4 wheels) up to Php 8,000 or Php 10,000+ (combination AT/MT).
• PDC for motorcycles, meanwhile, costs Php 3,000+.
• Exam: Php 167.63 
• License Fee: Php 652.83
• Practical Exam with an LTO rented car: Php 250

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3. Professional

A Professional Driver’s License grants you (hired or paid) the authority to drive/operate motor vehicles whether for PRIVATE use or for hire to the PUBLIC.

Professional Driver’s License holders are permitted to drive almost all types of vehicles, including motor vehicles exceeding 4,500 GVW like heavy construction equipment.

Qualifications

• You must be a Filipino citizen who is at least seventeen (17) years old.
• If a foreigner, you must be at least eighteen (18) years old.
• You must be physically and mentally able to drive a motor vehicle. However, just because you have a medical condition doesn’t mean you’ll be completely barred from driving a vehicle. You will be allowed to drive as long as your physician provides a condition code to be added to your driver’s license.
• You must be able to read and write English, Filipino, or any applicable local dialect.
• You must be a holder of a Non-Professional Driver’s License for at least a year.
• You must have no unsettled traffic violation.
• You must have completed a minimum of 8 hours of practical driving lessons given by an LTO-accredited and TESDA-certified driving school (LTO will be offering the same services but at a lower rate for those who cannot afford to enroll in a driving school).
• For Restriction Codes 1, 2, 4, and 6: You must be a holder of a valid Non-Professional Driver’s License issued at least one (1) year before the date of application.
• For Restriction Codes 3, 5, 7, and 8: You must be a holder of a valid Non-Professional Driver’s License at least one (1) year before the date of the application or You must be a holder of a Professional Driver’s License with Restriction Codes 1, 2, 4, and 6 at least six (6) months before the date of application.

Professional Driver’s License Requirements

• Completely filled out Driver’s License Application Form. Also known as the Application for Driver’s License (ADL) form.
• Valid Non-Professional Driver’s License issued at least one year before the date of application.
• Taxpayer’s Identification Number or TIN (if you’re employed).
• Medical examination certificate (online only/electronically transmitted by the clinic).
• Practical Driving Course (PDC) certificates (electronically transmitted) to prove that you have completed the required practical instruction given by LTO or any LTO-accredited driving schools.

Professional Driver’s License Fees

• The Practical Driving Course takes up the bulk of the expenses with prices ranging from Php 3,500+ (manual, 4 wheels) and Php 5,500+ (automatic, 4 wheels) up to Php 8,000 or Php 10,000+ (combination AT/MT).
• PDC for motorcycles, meanwhile, costs Php 3,000+.
• Exam: Php 167.63 
• License Fee: Php 652.83
• Practical Exam with an LTO rented car: Php 250

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How to Apply & Get a Driver’s License in the Philippines

Step 1: Complete all the required documents

Before you proceed to an LTO office and apply for a Non/Professional Driver’s License, make sure that you have already completed the 31-day prerequisite of being a Student’s Permit holder, an 8-hour Practical Driving Course (PDC), and obtained a PDC Certificate.

Note that without a PDC Certificate, your application will not be entertained.

You are also required to have an LTO Client ID that proves that you already have an account in the LTO online portal or Land Transportation Management System (LTMS). To obtain your client ID, you must create an account in the LTMS.

Step 2: Submit all the requirements to the LTO Office

At the LTO Office, submit all the needed documents for the Non/Professional Driver’s License Application to the receiving personnel. Don’t go to the LTO renewal offices in malls which only process renewal and student permit applications.

The receiving personnel will check the completeness of the documents and transmit them to the evaluator.

The evaluator will evaluate your qualifications and if you’re qualified, your application will be encoded into the system.

Step 3: Pay all the necessary fees

Once your application has been evaluated, you can then head to the Cashier. When your name gets called, pay all the necessary fees.

Step 4: Take the Professional Driver’s License Basic Driving Theory Test

Depending on the LTO office, you will be given either the old written exam that has 40 items and a passing grade of 30 or the new digital/computerized exam with 60 items and a passing grade of 48.

Either way, the LTO offers reviewers on its website to help you pass the exam. You’ll be informed of the results right after the written examination.

Step 5: Take the Practical Driving Test

If you’ve passed the written examination, you’ll then take the practical driving test.

If you’ve passed both the written examination and the practical driving test, the Approving Officer will approve your application.

Step 6: Get your Driver’s License and OR

Head to the photo and signature taking and wait for your name to get called.

After the approval, the Non-Pro or Professional Driver’s License as well as the Official Receipt (OR) will be released to you. You’ll also be asked to write your name and affix your signature on the Release Form.

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How to Apply for an LTO Philippine Driver’s License Online

1. Go to the LTMS portal and click Register Now.
2. Read and accept the Terms of the Agreement. Encode the security code in the blank box provided and then click Next.
3. Select ‘Enroll As An Individual’ to proceed with the registration.
4. Answer the question of whether you have an existing license or not.
5. Answer the question regarding your nationality
6. Provide your personal details
7. Provide your contact details
8. Click the link sent to your email address to verify your account
9. Create your password
10. Sign in to your account using your new password
11. Select ‘Licensing’ on your dashboard
12. Complete your online application form (When you’re finished, click Apply Changes).

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How to Renew LTO Philippine Driver’s License

Step 1: Obtain a Comprehensive Driver’s Education (CDE) Certificate

It is now mandatory to present a CDE Certificate whether you are renewing a non-professional or professional driver’s license.

In addition, you must already have an LTO Client ID before coming to the LTO office. The LTO Client ID proves that you have already registered at the LTMS Public Portal. Read the next section (i.e., LTMS Registration) for more details on how to create your LTMS account.

• Register at the LTO Online Portal
• Take the Online Validation Exam
• Print the Online Validation Exam Certificate
  • you need to get at least 13 of the CDE’s exam questions correct to pass the test.

Step 2: Go to the nearest LTO office or licensing center

For a faster transaction, go to one of the LTO renewal offices in select malls that are not as crowded. 

Note: Go get a medical exam certificate before heading to the nearest LTO renewal branch to you. There are usually LTO-accredited clinics near LTO satellite offices.

Step 3: Submit all the required documents

Submit all the required documents to the appropriate personnel (usually on Window 1):

• Driver’s License (Non-Pro/Pro)
• CDE Certificate
• Medical Exam Certificate

The personnel will retrieve your license details from the system. The license details will be shown to you so you can confirm if all the details are correct or should be changed. You can proceed to the next step if no revisions are needed. In case you have existing unpaid penalties, you are required to settle them first (by paying them) before proceeding to the next steps. 

Step 4: Pay the Driver’s License Renewal Fees

Head to the cashier and pay the corresponding fees.

Below are LTO Driver’s License Renewal Fees:

Pro & Non-Pro License Renewal Fees	Fee
Application Fee	Php 100
Renewal Fee (professional & non-professional licenses)	Php 585
Total	Php 685
For Late Renewal Penalties (if applicable)
1 day – 1 year	Php 75
1 year and 1 day – 2 years	Php 150
More than 2 years	Php 225
Application Fee (for more than two years expired)	Php 100
Additional Computer Fee (for more than two years expired)	Php 67.63
Computer Fee	Php 68
Fees to be paid for a Dormant License (Pro & Non-Pro):
Application Fee	Php 100
Computer Fee	Php 67.63
License Fee	Php 585
Penalty	Php 225
Additional Computer Fee	Php 67.63
LTO Student Driver’s Permit Renewal Fees
Application Fee	Php 100
License Renewal Fee	Php 150
Penalty Fee for one (1) day to one (1) year expired	Php 50
Penalty Fee for more than one (1) year to two (2) years expired	Php 100
Penalty Fee for more than two (2) years expired	Php 150
Other Fees
Change Classification from Professional to Non-professional (and vice-versa)	Php 100
Replacement Fee (valid licenses)	Php 225
Replacement Fee (expired licenses)	Php 585
Additional Restriction Code (RD) – also applicable for every information changed in one’s license	Php 100
Conversion Fee (for foreign licenses)	Php 100

Step 5: Get your new Driver’s License & OR

Go to the encoding section to have your photograph, biometrics, and digital signature taken.

The Pro or Non-Pro Driver’s License Card with the Official Receipt, as well as the expired card, will be released. You’ll be asked to write your name and affix your signature on the Release Form.

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How to Renew LTO Driver’s License Online

Thanks to the new LTO Land Transportation Management System (LTMS). You can now renew your driver’s license online. The following is a guide on how to register and apply for renewal online:

LTMS Account Registration

1. Visit the LTO online portal or Land Transportation Management System.
2. Click the Register Now button.
3. Read and accept the Terms of the Agreement. Scroll down to the bottom of the page and tick the Yes, I accept box. Enter the security code in the space provided and click the blue Next button.
4. Select Enroll as an Individual.
5. Provide the details of your existing license. After selecting Enroll as an Individual in the previous step, you will be asked by the system whether you have a Philippine driver’s license or a conductor’s license. Once you click Yes, you will need to provide the details of your driver’s license or conductor’s license including the license number, expiry date, and Official Receipt number. Click the Next button.
6. Select your citizenship. If you are a non-Filipino citizen, you have to provide your Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) details. Otherwise, you can just click the Next button.
7. Enter the required personal information including your complete name, birth date, gender, and mother’s maiden name. Upon completion, select the Next button.
8. Enter the email address (where you wish to receive the verification message) and your phone number. Once done, click the Create Account button. Take note that it may take a maximum of 24 hours before you receive the verification message via your account email address.
9. Click the link found in the verification message sent to your email to continue your registration process.
10. Create a password that you will use every time you log in to the LTMS. To do this, select Set Password to log in and complete your registration.

Online License Renewal via LTMS

1. Login to the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) online portal. To log in to your LTMS account, enter your account email address/LTO client number and your password.
2. Select Licensing in the LTMS dashboard. If you have just created your LTMS account, clicking Licensing will direct you to a form where you have to provide the required information to complete your profile. After filling out the form, you will be redirected to the dashboard with a notification on the right part of your screen showing that your profile has been saved. Just click Licensing again in the dashboard to continue.
3. Read the LTMS Terms of Use. Click the blue Accept button to continue.
4. On the Online Application form, select Driver’s License as the License Classification. Don’t click the Next button yet because you have to provide a medical certificate first before you can proceed to the renewal process.
5. Click Add Medical Certificate. Upon clicking this button, you will be instructed to enter your Medical Certificate Number. Encode the requested information then click Verify.
6. Select Renewal as the type of application. Click the Next button to continue.
7. Select your preferred appointment schedule and LTO Office.
8. Pay the renewal fees through your preferred payment channel.
9. Proceed to your selected LTO Office on your appointment date.

Take note that even if you have accomplished your renewal online, you will still need to personally claim your license on the appointed date given. Bring all required documents and present them to the LTO on the appointed date.

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How to Renew LTO Driver’s License For OFWs

Requirements

Initial Requirements (application through a representative)

• Authorization letter allowing the chosen representative to renew and claim Driver’s License
• Photocopies of passport (first page, visa page, departure in the Philippines, last overseas arrival)
• Photocopy of Driver’s License
• Photocopy of Driver’s License Receipt (if available)

Additional Requirements (upon arrival in the Philippines)

• Driver’s License
• Drug Test result
• Medical examination certificate (online-only/electronically submitted). Medical certificates, including drug results, should only come from an LTO-accredited clinic or physician.
• Photocopy of TIN or TIN Card
• Photocopy of passport

Guide

Renewal Application through a Representative:

1. Head to the customer service counter and get the Driver’s License Application Form and the checklist of requirements. The applicant can download the form online and fill it out prior to the representative’s transaction at the LTO Office. Get the queue number and wait for it to be called.
2. Head to the Evaluator Counter and submit all the initial requirements and have them checked for completeness and authenticity.
3. The representative should head to the cashier to pay the corresponding fees.
4. Head to the Releasing Counter and get the Driver’s License Receipt which should serve as the Temporary Driver’s License.

Completing the Renewal Application:

1. The applicant should present himself to the same office where the representative applied for license renewal within 30 days after arriving in the country.
2. Submit the additional requirements.
3. Head to the photo-taking/signature area and wait for your turn.
4. Head to the Releasing Counter and present the Driver’s License Receipt to claim your License Card. You’ll be asked to write your name and affix your signature on the Release Form.

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How to Get an International Driver’s License in the Philippines

If you want to use your Phillpine License in other countries, you havve to get a Philippine International Driving Permit at any Automobile Association of the Philippines, Inc. (APP) office.

International Driver’s License Requirements

• Original and photocopy of Professional or Non-Professional Driver’s License (must be valid for at least one year)
• 2 pcs. 2 x 2 colored ID photo (must have a white background)

For foreign nationals, dual citizens, and Filipino citizens born in another country:

• Original passport
• Photocopy of passport information page and page with the date of the last arrival
• Alien Certificate Registration (if permanent resident)

International Driver’s License Application Fees

• AAP Joining Fee – Php 300
• AAP Annual Registration – Php 1,200
• PIDP Processing Fee – Php 300

Take note that the AAP Joining Fee will be waived for OFWs. You only need to present proof of being an OFW like a valid Employment Contract and a Seaman’s Passport.

How to Apply for an International Driver’s License

Head to the nearest AAP office and submit all the required documents. You can find an AAP office in the following areas (with their corresponding processing time):

• NCR: Alabang: 2 – 3 business days; Makati: 2 – 3 business days; Quezon City: 1 hour
• Luzon: Batangas and Pampanga (2 – 3 business days)
• Visayas: Cebu (4 – 5 business days)
• Mindanao: Davao (4 – 5 business days)

Your Philippine International Driving Permit will be valid for one (1) year from the date of application if your current Philippine Driver’s License is still valid for at least one (1) year.

If it’s valid for less than one (1) year, your Philippine International Driving Permit will have the same validity period.

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How to Prepare for LTO Driving Tests (Written & Practical)

When applying for a driver’s license you will be given two types of tests – Written and Practical. Here are some of the topics you will encounter and some tips on how to prepare:

Written Examination

The written examination will cover the following topics:

• Emergency Situations
• Handling and Driving
• General Information
• Parking Rules and Restrictions
• Penalties and Violations
• Road Positioning
• Signs and Markings

When preparing for both the written and practical driving test, the following files will help you study:

You can review the topics needed here and check out the Comprehensive Driver’s Education (CDE) Program.

Examination Rules

• If you fail the Basic Driving Theory Examination and/or the Practical Driving Test, you will not be allowed to take the same test within one (1) month from the date of your last examination.
• If you fail the Basic Driving Theory Examination and/or the Practical Driving Test twice within a period of one (1) year, you will not be allowed to take the same test within one (1) year from the date of your last examination.
• If you fail the Basic Driving Theory Examination and/or the Practical Driving Test three times in a row, you will not be allowed to take the same test within two (2) years from the date of your last examination.
• If you fail the exam for additional restriction codes, you’ll still be able to renew your current license but without the additional restriction codes, you’ve applied for. The examination results will also be included in your driving record.

Preparing for the Practical Driving Test

Here are some things to expect and keep in mind.

• The practical driving exam will require you to make one full round of driving at LTO’s course.
• You will need to pay Php 250 to rent the car for the practical exam (150 for motorcycle). You can bring your own vehicle too if you prefer. Just note that finding a parking spot there can be difficult.
• Don’t be nervous. Both the written and practical exam are relatively easy.
• Bring sufficient money for the fees. Refer to the Fees section above for rates.
• Bring water and snacks just in case. Though there are usually food canteens and vendors located within or outside the vicinity that you can buy food from.

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LTO Driver’s License FAQs

OFWs with unclaimed Driver’s License, what to do?

It happens. Sometimes you simply lose track of these things.

Don’t fret though, if you’re an OFW and forgot to claim your driver’s license, here are the steps to get it:

1. Download a copy of APPLICATION FORM FOR UNCLAIMED DRIVERS LICENSE CARD FOR OFWS

2. Scan and make copies of the following:

• Passport showing ID photo and passport page showing arrival stamp at the current country
• Official Receipt of Driver’s License
• Soft Copy of 2×2 photo using a blue background

3. Send your application form along with all requirements above to: LTOOFWDL@YAHOO.COM

4. Wait for the email notification letter. It will advise you on the delivery date of your driver’s license.

5. Upon receipt of notification email, visit the Embassy of your choice for getting your driver’s license card.

You’ll be asked to pick the Embassy of your choice on the Driver’s Application form.

Duplicate (lost/stolen) & Damaged License for Student, Non-Pro, and Pro: What to do?

So what if you lose or get your license damaged? Don’t worry, you can request for a new one to be issued by following these steps:

1. Visit a notary public office and request for an Affidavit of Loss or an Affidavit of Mutilation (can range anywhere from Php100 – Php250). Make sure to bring a valid ID.
2. Visit an LTO Regional Branch. License replacements are typically done here and not on their satellite locations.
3. Obtain a Driver’s License Application form from the Customer Service Counter. Complete it and wait for your number to be called.
4. Submit all required documents at the Evaluator’s window.
5. Get your signature and photo taken at the designated area.
6. Go to the cashier and pay all required fees. Get your official receipt (OR).
7. Proceed to the Releasing Counter to get your new driver’s license.

Replacement Fee	225.00
Duplicate Fee	50.00
Certification Fee	100.00
Clearance Fee	30.00
Computer Fee	67.63
TOTAL	Php 472.63

What is a Driver’s License Certificate? And what are the requirements & procedure to get one?

This License Certification is a document that serves as proof of your driving experience in the Philippines.

This document is usually requested by Pinoys looking to live abroad and want to apply for a driver’s license there.

You can submit an Application for License Certification at the LTO Central Office Licensing Section and at any LTO Licensing Center or District Office that processes Driver’s License transactions.

You’ll need to bring the following:

• Photocopy of your current or old license
• Copy of the letter of request from the Government (if requested by Gov’t agency) or Request Slip (should state the purpose)
• Duly notarized affidavit of loss or letter request (for verification of license data stating the purpose)
• TIN (for employment abroad purposes)
• Fully accomplished Monitoring Slip (for employment abroad purposes)

Steps:

1. Proceed to the Customer Service Counter and submit all the required documents.
2. Get your monitoring slip and queue number and wait for your number to be called
3. Pay the fee at the Cashier and get your receipt (OR)
4. Go to the Releasing Counter and present your OR to get the License Certification.

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What are the diffrent types of Driver’s License Penalties & Fees in the Philippines

Here’s a list of penalties and their corresponding fee when driving. Drive safe and always follow traffic rules!

What is the penalty for Under-age drivers?

Anyone found to have misrepresented their age in their driver’s license will be required to surrender their license.

In order to obtain and renew a valid license, the person will need to submit a written appeal and be asked to pay Php5,000 plus miscellaneous fees for revision of LTO’s records.

Should the licensee prefer the 1-year cancellation of his or her driver’s license, they should surrender the temporary license at the Licensing Center.

They will be barred from applying for a new license for 1 year starting from the time the license was surrendered.

This applies to the following scenarios:

1. A licensee who voluntarily requests for correction
2. Licensee whose license got canceled (underage reasons) prior to promulgation of circular no. AHS-2008-1072

What is LTO DLRO?

The Driver’s License Renewal Office(DLRO) is primarily focused on the renewal of driver’s and conductor’s licenses. So if your primary concern is just the renewal of your license, you can head over to any LTO DLROs that are usually found in malls, such as the following:

• Major Robinsons Malls
• Major SM Malls
• Alabang Town Center
• Metropoint
• Lucky Chinatown Mall
• Paseo Center
• Ali Mall
• Fisher Mall
• Tiendsitas
• Venice Grand Canal Mall

How Do I Schedule an Online Appointment?

1. Log in to your LTO account via the LTMS portal and click Licensing.
2. Read and accept the Terms of Use.
3. Select your license type (e.g. Student Permit, Driver’s License).
4. Click Add Medical Certificate.
5. Input your medical certificate number. Then, click Verify.
6. Choose your driver’s license application type (New or Renewal).
7. Fill out the online application form.
8. Upload the required documents indicated in the Document Description dropdown.
9. The LTO fees that you need to pay will be displayed. Click Apply.
10. Select your desired LTO office where you’ll complete the rest of the transaction, your appointment date, and time.
11. Click Proceed to Payment.
12. Select your payment method. Then, click Proceed to Summary.
13. Check all the details of your transaction. Once you’re good, click Finish Transaction.
14. You’ll be directed to the e-payment and appointment disclaimers. Click Accept.
15. Your order summary and billing details will appear. Read and agree to the Terms and Conditions.
16. Click on your preferred payment method. After that, click Continue. You’ll be directed to a third-party page where you’ll be completing your online payment transaction.

NOTE: You are required to get your medical certificate only from LTO-accredited clinics.

When will my License Expire?

Student’s License has 1-year validity

Non/Pro License has a typical 5-year validity and can be extended to 10 years if you have a clean record.

Does LTO accept online or Walk-in Driver’s license applications?

Yes, but some branches can only accommodate a certain amount of applicants per day. So it is best to go as early as you can.

Where can I enroll for the theoretical driving and Hands-on driving course? How much does it cost?

You can enroll in any LTO or TESDA-accredited driving school.

The Theoretical driving course will teach you the fundamentals of driving while the Hands-on exam will teach you how to properly operate a motor vehicle.

How can I apply for additional restriction codes?

You can submit an Application for Additional Restriction Codes at any LTO Licensing Center or District Office that processes driver’s license transactions. When applying for additional restriction codes, you can only choose either RC 2 or RC 4 and either RC 3 or RC 5. 

How can I convert a Non-Professional driver’s license to a Professional driver’s license (and vice versa)?

You can submit an Application for a Change of Classification at any LTO Licensing Center or District Office that processes Driver’s License transactions.

Requirements:

• Fully accomplished Driver’s License Application Form
• Medical examination certificates (online-only/electronically transmitted)
• Clearance from both the NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) and PNP (Philippine National Police), indicating that the applicant has not been convicted in any offense that involves moral turpitude or reckless imprudence resulting from reckless driving
• Valid Non-Professional Driver’s License issued at least one (1) year before the date of application (original and photocopy)

What are the operating hours of LTO offices?

LTO offices open at 8:00 a.m. and close up shop at 5:00 p.m. But operating hours may vary depending on the volume of clients coming in. To be sure you can call the nearest LTO Branch in your area.

Are LTO offices open on Saturdays?

Yes it is open (since July 31, 2021)

Offices that are open on Saturdays are as follows:

• Caloocan District Office
• Las Piñas District Office
• Makati District Office
• Malabon District Office
• Manila North, East, and South District Offices
• Muntinlupa District Office
• Navotas District Office
• Parañaque District Office
• Pasay District Office
• Public Utility Vehicle Registration Extension Center (Pasay)

How can I update my driver’s license for changed name, marital status, or citizenship?

You can apply for Revision of Records at any LTO District Office, Licensing Center, or Extension Office that processes Driver’s License transactions.

Requirements:

• Basic Requirements
  • Fully accomplished Driver’s License Application Form
  • Professional or Non-Professional Driver’s License
  • Medical examination certificates (online-only/electronically transmitted)
• Additional Requirements
  • For Incorrect Name or Birth Date:
  • PSA-authenticated birth certificate
  • Affidavit of Discrepancy
  • For Change in Name:
  • Court Order authorizing the name change
• For Change in Marital Status:
  • Marriage Contract (photocopy) OR;
  • Court Order for Annulled or Divorced Applicants
• For Change in Citizenship:
  • Foreign License
  • Alien Certificate of Registration

Can I drive in the Philippines using my foreign driver’s license?

Foreigners who hold a driver’s license from their country of origin are allowed to drive in the Philippines for 90 days after arrival.

How to convert a foreign driver’s license to a Philippine driver’s license?

To obtain a Non-Professional Philippine Driver’s License, written and practical driving examinations are not required if the foreign license to be converted is still valid.

For a Professional Philippine Driver’s License, an applicant will have to take both the written and practical driving examinations whether the foreign license to be converted is valid or expired.

Can I renew my driver’s license in advance? How early can I renew it?

Driver’s license holders can renew their licenses as early as 60 days before the expiry date. If you want to apply for a renewal as early as 61 days to 1 year before your license expires, you must submit proof that you’ll be out of the country when it expires.

What are demerit points and why should drivers avoid getting them?

Every traffic violation you accumulate will have a corresponding number of demerit points. Too many demerit points can lead to prohibition. so it is best to avoid accumulating these as much as possible, especially if you are a PUJ driver as you will get double the points.

Is it required to take the driving test again when renewing a driver’s license?

No, Only driver’s license holders whose licenses have expired for over 2 years will be required to take the driving test again.

Can a driver’s license be renewed even after it expires?

Yes, expired driver’s licenses can still be renewed, provided that it has only been expired for less than 10 years. Otherwise, you need to re-apply for a driver’s license.

My driver’s license has expired for 10 years (or more). Can I still renew it?

No. According to LTO guidelines, holders of driver’s licenses that have expired for 10 years or more are no longer qualified to apply for renewal. Instead, they are required to start from scratch and apply for a student permit again.

Who is exempted from taking the Comprehensive Driver’s Education (CDE)?

No one is exempted. All driver’s on all skill levels will be required to ta take the Comprehensive Driver’s Education (CDE).

Can I renew my license on weekends?

Yes, you may renew your driver’s license (as well as apply for a student’s permit) on Saturdays in any LTO Driver’s License Renewal Office.

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LTO Sites & Locations

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Tips for an Efficient & Hassle-Free Driver’s License Application & Renewal

1. Renew at least a week before your license’s expiration date.

Don’t renew on the last allowed date. You’ll never know when problems or issues may happen.

Having plenty of buffer time will allow you to handle these issues and ensure you won’t get penalized for late registration.

2. Check online for LTO satellite offices near you.

The last time I renewed my driver’s license was on the Ground Floor of SM North Edsa Annex. They have everything there (including medical exam area) for renewing your license.

The mall is a pretty convenient place since its air-conditioned and has plenty of establishments for meals when you get hungry.

Before you visit an LTO Regional office to renew your license, see if there are more convenient locations near you.

3. Download and complete your application form at home.

This will save time and ensure you won’t be rushing when completing it (helps prevent mistakes).

4. Review the steps above for application and renewal.

By knowing the procedures beforehand, you can avoid potential time-sucks and make sure you’re doing the right step.

5. Final checklist before going out.

Before you head out, do a final checklist.

Make sure all required documents are with you, bring enough money for fees and food, a fully-charged phone (and power bank) to keep you entertained while waiting, and water.

Applying for a driver’s license (either first time or renewal) is not hard.

You just need to be aware of the procedures and make sure to bring all the required documents. Armed with the info above plus a few tips, the whole experience should be easy.

6. Avoid Fixers

Just don’t. It’s illegal and will cost you more.

Worse, there’s a high chance you’ll get issued a fake license. In the last few years, the government has been on a crackdown on fixers so you should be seeing less of them (I hope).

Still, be vigilant and just ignore them, it won’t do you any good.

Read Next:

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• Complete Guide to Car Registration & Renewal in the Philippines