Getting behind the wheel this year? Read through the step-by-step guide ahead to familiarize yourself with the process of obtaining a driver’s license or to get reacquainted with the process should you be due for a renewal.

A driver’s license is a form of identification granted by the government that serves as permission to drive a vehicle in the Philippines. The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has implemented changes to the license application process in 2021, such as the mandatory 15-hour theoretical driving course to further ensure public safety.

A student permit is a prerequisite for a driver’s license, authorizing you to drive a vehicle as long as a licensed driver is accompanying you. This permit is valid for a year.

• Applicant must be at least 16 years old
• Duly accomplished Application for Permits and Licenses (APL) Form
• One photocopy and an original LTO-accredited medical certificate
• Original and one photocopy of the Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) certificate
• Original and one photocopy of a valid government ID
• For minors, a notarized parental or guardian’s consent with a valid government ID
• If employed, a Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN)

A non-professional driver’s license permits you to drive any licensed private automobile. Depending on when your student permit was issued, you have a month to 12 months to apply for this type of license.

• Must be at least 17 years old
• Duly accomplished APL Form
• One photocopy and original LTO-accredited medical certificate
• Original and one photocopy of Practical Driving Course (PDC)
• Original valid student permit
• For minors, a notarized parental or guardian's consent with a valid government ID
  If employed, a TIN

A professional driver’s license is the type to get if you want to drive for a living. You must apply for a professional license if you get paid for operating any public or private vehicle.

• Must be at least 18 years old
• Must have no unsettled traffic violations
• Duly accomplished APL Form
• One photocopy and original LTO-accredited medical certificate
• Original and one photocopy of PDC
• Original valid student permit or non-professional driver's license
• Original and photocopy of birth certificate
• Valid NBI Clearance or Police Clearance
• LTO Client ID
• TIN

1. Submit an accomplished application form along with the other requirements to the LTO representative.
2. Have your photo taken and affix your signature in the designated area.
3. Once your application is approved, head to the cashier to pay.
4. You will receive your student permit in the form of an official receipt.

1. Register for an account in the LTO online portal. Fill out the necessary details, verify your account, and pay the fees online. To speed up your internet connection for a seamless online application, level up your prepaid plan and subscribe to a GoBOOSTER promo.
2. Go to your preferred LTO office and submit your requirements.
3. Take the written and practical exams.
4. The approving officer will approve your application if you get through both exams.
5. Have your photo taken and affix your signature.

1. Submit required documents at the LTO office.
2. Once your documents are approved, pay all fees to the cashier.
3. Take the written and practical exams.
4. Have your photo taken and affix your signature if you passed both tests.
5. Your professional driver's license and official receipt will be sent to you by LTO, and you will be required to sign the Release Form.

Ensuring a valid license is crucial, as penalties and legal repercussions may apply when you drive with an expired license. The process for license renewal is easier than getting a new one through the LTO Portal. Here’s everything you need to know about the process:

Any license holders leaving the country that have not renewed their license in the last 12 months can apply for the driver’s license renewal. Professional or non-professional licensees whose credentials haven't expired in the last two years may also apply.

Responsible drivers who have maintained clean records can qualify for a 10-year license reward. Meanwhile, those with at least one traffic offense will be eligible for a five-year license.

• LTO-accredited medical certificate
• Original professional or non-professional driver’s license
• Printed copy of Comprehensive Driver's Education (CDE) certificate with at least a 50% passing score

1. Secure a CDE certificate online.
2. Visit the nearest LTO office, licensing center, or LTO renewal office in select malls to submit all required documents.
3. Once the receiving personnel confirm that your documents are valid and complete, have your biometrics and photo taken.
4. LTO will release your new driver's license and an official receipt. You will need to affix your name and signature on the release form.

• Student permit: ₱1,000–₱5,500
• Professional and Non-professional license: ₱4,000–₱8,000
• Student permit renewal: ₱250–₱400
• Driver's license renewal: ₱685–₱1,000

The cost of classroom-style theoretical driving instruction at an LTO-accredited driving school is about ₱2,000 on average.

In case you lose your current license, you may apply for a new one at any LTO district office or licensing center.

Applying and renewing a driver’s license in the Philippines doesn’t have to be complicated, even with the government-mandated new requirements.

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