How to get Your Drivers License in Philippines complete guide

How to get Your Drivers License in Philippines complete guide

How to get Your Drivers License in Philippines? Before you can enjoy the freedom of driving, you’ll need to secure a drivers license, which is a legal requirement in the Philippines. Driving without a valid license can result in a hefty fine of ₱3,000, so it’s essential to follow the correct steps to obtain one.

This guide aims to simplify the drivers license application process, especially for first-time applicants. By understanding what to expect and how to prepare, you’ll find the experience more manageable.

What is a Drivers License?

A drivers license is an official document issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO), a government agency under the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in the Philippines. This license not only authorizes you to operate a motor vehicle legally but also serves as a valid identification card for various transactions in both government and private sectors.

A new drivers license is typically valid for five years, while a student permit, which is a prerequisite for a drivers license, is valid for one year.

Types of Drivers Licenses in the Philippines

The LTO offers three types of licenses, each with specific requirements and privileges:

1 . Student Permit

Both professional and non-professional licenses require a student permit.
This LTO-issued document is a basic license that enables a person to drive with a licensed driver (either a professional or non-professional).

Who Can Apply?

  • Filipinos at least 16 years old.
  • Foreigners at least 18 years old who have stayed in the Philippines for at least one month and can provide proof of residence for up to six months.
  • Individuals whose license has been expired for 10 years or more, without traffic violations.

Requirements:

  • A completed Application for Permits and Licenses (APL) form.
  • Birth certificate, passport, or any government-issued ID.
  • Parent or guardian’s consent and ID if under 18.
  • For foreigners, a passport with entry and visa details.
  • Medical certificate and a Certificate of Completion of the 15-hour theoretical driving course.

2 . Non-Professional Drivers License

Drivers with non-professional licenses can only operate private vehicles. One month to one year after your student permit is issued, you may apply for a non-professional license.

An updated drivers license design with a pearl white color was unveiled by the Department of Transportation in April 2022. Although the license has been redesigned, its security features remain intact, ensuring its legitimacy.

Who Can Apply?

  • At least 17-year-old Filipinos
  • Foreigners must be at least 18 years old
  • Student permit holders with a valid permit for at least one month
  • Driving a vehicle requires physical and mental fitness
  • You must have completed and passed the Practical Driving Course (PDC) at a LTO-accredited driving school, DEC, or TESDA training center.
  • The LTO examinations must have been passed
  • Unresolved traffic violations are not allowed

Requirements:

  • APL form completed
  • In the case of 17-year-old applicants:
  • Consent of the parent or guardian
  • A government-issued ID with the parent/guardian’s photo and signature (original and one photocopy)
  • The original copy of the medical certificate and one photocopy must be transmitted electronically from an LTO-accredited clinic.
  • Certificate of completion of the Practical Driving Course (PDC) (original and one photocopy)
  • A valid student permit is required
  • TIN (Taxpayer Identification Number) for employed applicants

3 . Professional Drivers License

Drivers with professional licenses can drive vehicles for a living.
For driving public utility vehicles (PUVs) such as taxis, transport network vehicle services (TNVS), jeepneys, tricycles, buses, etc., you need a professional license.

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Who Can Apply?

  • At least 17-year-old Filipinos
  • Persons over the age of 18 who are foreigners
  • You must hold a non-pro license for at least six months
  • There must be no unresolved traffic violations
  • Driving a vehicle requires physical and mental fitness
  • A minimum of eight hours of practical driving lessons at a driving school accredited by the LTO or TESDA is required

Requirements:

  • APL form completed
  • Electronically transmitted medical certificate from a LTO-accredited clinic (original and one photocopy).
  • A valid drivers license for non-professionals

Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Drivers License in 2023

You will have to take a long and winding road to get your drivers license. The process will be easier if you know where to begin.

The following steps will guide you on how to obtain your Philippine drivers license.

Step 1: Take a driving theory course

A mandatory theoretical driving course is required for all first-time applicants if you’re looking to get your driver’s license in the Philippines. It can seem daunting for those who aren’t familiar with driving, but don’t worry. Taking the course seriously will help you pass the test.

Why is a Theoretical Driving Course Mandatory?

Before you can apply for a student permit, you must complete the theoretical driving course (TDC). The LTO has stringent policies to ensure applicants are knowledgeable about road safety and existing laws before they get a driver’s license.

A 15-hour theoretical driving course is required for Filipinos who wish to apply for a student permit or license. Driving schools accredited by the LTO supervise the program.

The course covers traffic laws, violations, and other LTO special road laws, as well as the fundamentals of driving. The course should be completed within two years from the start date. There are 100 items on the written examination for TDC students. A passing score is 80.

What Happens After You Complete the Theoretical Driving Course?

Your student permit application will be processed once you submit your Certificate of Completion along with other requirements after you complete the TDC. You receive a certificate after completing the course. Your electronic headshot, personal information (like name, date of birth, gender, and issuance date) will all be included.

Step 2: Apply for a student permit

The LTO requires a student permit before issuing a non-pro or professional license. Driver’s licenses are issued to qualified Filipinos and foreigners. This permit will need to be presented to authorities when you test your driving skills on the road for the first time.

Getting a student permit will cost you around $300 and take about an hour at the LTO. Take advantage of your student permit’s one-year validity to practice and improve your driving skills.

Step 3: Take a practical driving course

A student permit must be secured before taking at least eight hours of practical driving lessons from a driving school accredited by the LTO or TESDA. As a result of completing your driving lessons and passing your practical driving exam, you will receive a Practical Driving Certificate (PDC).

Step 4: Obtain a medical examination

A driver’s license requires proof that you are physically and mentally capable of driving. Any LTO-accredited clinic will offer a medical examination (for around $500). You can have your medical exam while applying for a driver’s license at clinics within or near the LTO office. LTO will receive your medical certificate online. Additionally, you will receive a hard copy of your medical certificate, which you will submit to the LTO.

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Step 5: Apply for a Driver’s License 


To get your driver’s license, visit your nearest LTO branch. To avoid any hassle, make sure you bring all the necessary documents.

How to Apply for a Driver’s License at the LTO Branch

  1. The requirements must be submitted. Provide the required documents for the evaluation of your driver’s license at the designated window. You can validate your details by logging in to the LTO Online Portal. To obtain your license, you need to fill out and submit an Application for Driver’s License (ADL) form.
  2. Make the necessary payments. If your name is called, proceed to the cashier to pay the application fee.
  3. Pass the LTO written exam. Enter the examination room once your name is called in the queue for the LTO written exam. Depending on your LTO office, the written exam may consist of 60 items on a computer. You must get 48 correct answers to pass the test. When you fail the test, you will be told to retake it the next working day (or any other day of your convenience) and complete the entire driver’s license application process again (except for the medical exam, as your medical certificate is valid for two months after it has been issued).
  4. Examine your driving skills. The practical driving test will be taken outside the LTO office if you pass the written exam. The LTO allows you to rent a vehicle or use your own vehicle (with a licensed driver). Upon failing the driving test, you will have to retake it the following day (or any other day that is convenient for you) and reapply for a driver’s license (except for the medical exam).
  5. Fees for driver’s licenses must be paid. You will need to pay for the driver’s license card at the cashier if you pass the test. Do you know how much it costs to get a driver’s license? In 2023, the LTO will charge a license fee of ₱585 and an application fee of ₱100 for driver’s license applications. There are third-party fees involved in getting a driver’s license, including medical exams (around ₱500) and vehicle rentals (around ₱200), which are not included in these application fees. A driver’s license application will cost you approximately ₱1,500. It is recommended that you bring cash since LTO cashiers do not accept credit cards or GCash at this time.
  6. You will need to provide biometric information. Afterwards, you will be asked to scan your fingerprints and take a picture for your license.
  7. Get your driver’s license. You will receive your driver’s license card after making payment.

A guide to applying for a driver’s license online using the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS)

The LTMS (aka LTO portal) is also an option for obtaining a driver’s license online. To schedule an appointment online, follow these steps:

  1. Check out the LTMS website at https://portal.lto.gov.ph. Create an account by clicking Register Now. Otherwise, click Log In to access your account.
  2. The Licensing icon can be found on your dashboard.
  3. The Terms of Use must be read and accepted.
  4. You can choose between a student permit or a driver’s license.
  5. Enter your medical certificate number after clicking the Add Medical Certificate button.
  6. You can apply for a new driver’s license or renew your existing one.
  7. Application forms can be filled out online.
  8. Documents must be uploaded according to the dropdown menu under Document Description.
  9. Choose an LTO office, an appointment date, and an appointment time that works for you. Once you have clicked the Proceed to Payment button, you will be taken to the payment page.
  10. You can choose your payment method. Click on Proceed to Summary.
  11. Click Accept after reading the disclaimers.
  12. You will then be able to see your order summary and billing information. The Terms and Conditions must be read and agreed to.
  13. Select the payment method you wish to use. Then click Continue. In order to complete the payment, you will be directed to a third-party website.
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Tips for a Hassle-Free Application

Getting a driver’s license can be easier if you follow these warnings and reminders:

  • As soon as possible, visit your preferred LTO branch. It is not uncommon for applicants to arrive at the LTO facility as early as 6 a.m. You should contact your chosen LTO branch ahead of time to find out their operating hours.
  • If you can’t come early, try to visit the office at least two hours before closing. During this time, only a few applicants are left. Depending on the LTO branch you choose, this may differ.
  • LTMS offers a much quicker process for getting a driver’s license.
  • Make sure you follow the proper dress code. Slippers, shorts, and sleeveless shirts should be avoided.
  • Dealing with a fixer is never a good idea. This is illegal, and it will cost you more money. Report anyone who offers to fast-track your application for a fee who claims to be an LTO employee.  

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How Can I Get a 10-Year Validity for My License?
    • The 10-year validity is available to drivers with a clean record. Under Republic Act 10930, if you have no traffic violations for five years, you qualify for a 10-year license upon renewal.
  2. When Will My License Expire?
    • Your license expiration date depends on when it was issued in relation to your birthday. If issued before your birthday, the current year is included in the validity period; if after, it starts the following year.
  3. Where Can I Take the Theoretical Driving Course?
    • The TDC is available at LTO-accredited driving schools nationwide. Some centers offer this course for free, so check with your local LTO for options.
  4. What Does the Practical Driving Exam Cover?
    • The exam tests your ability to handle different road conditions, traffic densities, and weather scenarios. It includes basic driving maneuvers and safety practices.

conclusion

Obtaining a driver’s license in the Philippines can be a bureaucratic process, but understanding the steps involved makes it manageable. With the introduction of the LTMS, applying online has become easier. Remember, a driver’s license is not just a legal requirement but also a responsibility to ensure road safety for everyone.

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