Philippines Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Philippines Driving Licence : Getting a driver’s license in the Philippines involves a few key steps:

• Meet the eligibility requirements – You must be at least 17 years old, pass the written exam and practical driving test, and meet medical and other requirements.
• Prepare for the LTO written exam – Study the driver’s manual, road signs, and traffic rules to pass the multiple choice written test. Review questions are available online.
• Take the practical driving test – You’ll need to demonstrate your driving skills in a standard vehicle provided by the LTO. The examiner will assess your maneuvering, parking, etc.
• Get a medical certificate – You’ll need a medical certificate from an accredited clinic to show you are fit to drive.
• Apply for your license – Visit an LTO office with your documents and get your picture taken to apply for your plastic license card.
• Pay fees – Fees for student permits, license applications, tests, etc. vary depending on the transaction.

Eligibility Requirements for First Time Applicants

To be eligible to apply for a driver’s license in the Philippines for the first time, you must:

• Be at least 17 years old at the time of application
• Be able to read and write Filipino or English
• Pass the LTO written exam
• Pass the LTO practical driving test
• Obtain a Medical Certificate from an accredited clinic
• Provide proof of identity and Philippine residency
• Pay the license application fee

Steps to Getting Your First Philippines Driving Licence

Here is an overview of the complete process for first time driver’s license applicants in the Philippines:

• Step 1: Study for the written exam using the LTO driver’s manual
• Step 2: Get a Student Permit at an LTO office
• Step 3: Take the written exam on traffic rules, signs, driving knowledge
• Step 4: Get a Medical Certificate from an accredited clinic
• Step 5: Schedule and take the practical driving test
• Step 6: Pass the driving test on a standard vehicle provided by the LTO
• Step 7: Submit your documents and application for a Non-Professional license
• Step 8: Get your picture taken and pay fees to obtain your license card

Types of Driver’s Licenses in the Philippines

There are several classes and types of driver’s licenses available in the Philippines:

Student Permit

• Allows you to learn how to drive and practice on public roads
• Valid for 6 months
• Must have a licensed driver accompany you while driving

Non-Professional Driver’s License

• For private, non-commercial vehicles up to 4500 kg
• Class 1: Motorcycles
• Class 2: Cars, SUVs, vans, pickups, etc.

Professional Driver’s License

• For driving taxis, buses, trucks, and other commercial vehicles
• Requires additional tests and certification
• Class 1: Motorcycles
• Class 2: Vehicles less than 4500 kg
• Class 3: Vehicles over 4500 kg

Additional License Classes

• Class 4: Tricycles
• Class 5: Heavy equipment like tractors, bulldozers, etc.

How to Renew Your Philippines Driver’s License

To renew your driver’s license in the Philippines, follow these steps:

• Check expiration date – Licenses expire after 3 years. Check the card for the expiration date.
• Prepare your documents – Gather your current license, medical certificate, and ID.
• Go to an LTO office – Visit an LTO licensing office during business hours. Avoid expiry dates.
• Get your picture taken – You must have a new photo taken for the renewed license.
• Submit application and pay fees – Fill out the application and pay the renewal fee.
• Receive renewed license – If approved, you will receive your new license card on the spot.
• Update records – Notify authorities of any changes to your address or other details.

Renewal Requirements

To renew your license, you will need:

• Your expired or expiring driver’s license card
• Valid medical certificate (renewed within the last 6 months)
• Valid ID with your photo (Passport, SSS, PRC, etc.)
• Payment for renewal fee

How to Replace or Change Information on Your License

If your driver’s license is lost, damaged, or has outdated information, you will need to replace it or change the information. Here’s how:

To Replace Your License:

• Report lost or damaged licenses to the nearest LTO office.
• Request for a duplicate license and pay fees.
• Provide valid IDs and updated medical certificate.
• Have your photo taken for the duplicate license.

To Change Information on Your License:

• Visit an LTO licensing center with your current license.
• Fill out and submit the Change of Information form.
• Provide supporting documents for changes:
  • Marriage contract for name changes
  • Valid IDs with new address
• Pay fee to change information on license.
• Get updated license card reflecting new information.
• Notify authorities of changes as needed.

How to Get an International Driving Permit in Philippines

An International Driving Permit allows you to legally drive in over 150 countries using your Philippine license. Here is how to get one:

• Be eligible – You must have a valid Non-Professional or Professional Philippines driver’s license.
• Apply at LTO – Visit any LTO licensing office with your license, passport, photos, and medical certificate.
• Pay fee – The fee for an International Driving Permit is around ₱1,185.
• Provide signature – You will need to provide a signature on your permit application.
• Get 1 year permit – If approved, you will receive a permit valid for 1 year.
• Carry both licenses – Your IDP is valid only when carried with your Philippine license.
• Renew yearly – The IDP must be renewed each year by going through the application process again.

Traffic Violations and Penalties in the Philippines

Driving violations in the Philippines can lead to fines, penalties, and suspension or revocation of your license. Here are some common traffic violations and penalties:

Common Violations and Fines

• Speeding – ₱1,000 to ₱2,000 fine
• Illegal parking – ₱200 fine
• Running a red light – ₱1,500 to ₱2,000 fine
• Using a cell phone while driving – ₱5,000 fine
• Driving without a license – ₱3,000 to ₱5,000 fine
• Drunk driving – ₱12,000 to ₱20,000 fine and license revocation
• Reckless driving – ₱2,000 to ₱5,000 fine

License Suspension and Revocation

The LTO can suspend or revoke driving privileges for violations like:

• Accumulating 20 or more demerit points
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Reckless driving resulting in serious injury or death
• Allowing someone else to use your license
• Accumulating excessive unpaid traffic tickets

Driver’s License Application and Renewal Fees

Here are some of the common driver’s license fees charged by the LTO in the Philippines:

Transaction	Fee
Student Permit	₱317
Non-Professional License – New	₱1,243
Non-Professional License – Renewal	₱651
Professional License – New	₱904
Professional License – Renewal	₱712
License Upgrading	₱300
Change of Information	₱300
License Replacement	₱600
Driver’s Record Printout	₱100

Additional fees may apply for medical exams, written tests, etc. Fees can be paid at LTO offices.

FAQs on Philippines Driving Licence