How to Apply for or Renew Your LTO Driver’s License in the Philippines (2025 Guide)

Getting an LTO driver’s license in the Philippines is an essential step if you want to drive legally on public roads. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or renewing an existing license, understanding the updated procedures can help you save time, avoid unnecessary expenses, and reduce frustration.

In 2025, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has introduced several changes—including updates to online renewals, medical certificate submissions, and stricter exam requirements. That’s why staying informed is more important than ever.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know about applying for or renewing your LTO driver’s license—whether it’s a student permit, non-professional, or professional license. You’ll learn about the latest requirements, fees, documents, online options, and what to expect at every stage of the process.

Let’s make your trip to the LTO smoother and hassle-free by starting with the basics.

An LTO driver’s license in the Philippines is an official identification card issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO), allowing individuals to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads. This license confirms that the holder has completed the necessary requirements, such as the Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) and practical driving tests, and possesses the knowledge and skills to drive safely and responsibly.

The LTO offers different types of driver’s licenses depending on the applicant’s experience, age, and the type of vehicle they plan to drive. Knowing which license suits your needs is important whether you’re a first-time applicant or looking to renew or upgrade your license.

There are three main types of driver’s licenses issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO), each with its own eligibility criteria and purpose:

1. Student Permit

The first step to becoming a licensed driver. It allows you to legally practice driving under the supervision of a licensed adult.

Key Requirements:

• At least 16 years old
• Completion of the 15-hour Theoretical Driving Course (TDC)
• Valid ID and medical certificate
• Filipino citizen or foreigner with proof of residency

Validity: 1 year

• You must hold a student permit for at least 30 days before applying for a non-professional license.

2. Non-Professional Driver’s License

For those who intend to drive private vehicles such as motorcycles, sedans, and light trucks.

Eligibility:

• At least 17 years old
• Holder of a valid student permit for 30+ days
• Completed TDC and passed the practical driving test

Validity: 5 years (or 10 years if eligible upon renewal)

3. Professional Driver’s License

Required if you plan to drive for a living (e.g., delivery vehicles, taxis, buses).

Eligibility:

• At least 21 years old
• Holder of a non-pro license for at least 1 year
• Completed the Practical Driving Course (PDC)
• Additional screening for commercial drivers

Validity: 5 to 10 years depending on violations and renewal status

Applying for a Student Permit

Getting a Student Permit is the first step in obtaining a driver’s license in the Philippines. This permit allows you to legally practice driving on public roads under the supervision of a licensed driver. It’s essential for new drivers who are still learning and planning to eventually obtain a full driver’s license.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Complete the Theoretical Driving Course (TDC)

Before applying, you must first complete a 15-hour Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) from an LTO-accredited driving school or LTO Driver Education Center. This course covers traffic rules, road safety, and driving ethics. You will receive a TDC Certificate after completing and passing the required assessments.

2. Prepare the Required Documents:

• TDC Certificate
• Valid ID (e.g., birth certificate, school ID, passport)
• Medical Certificate from an LTO-accredited clinic (electronically submitted to LTO by the clinic)
• Optional: Proof of Address, if requested (e.g., utility bill or barangay clearance)

3. Create an LTMS Portal Account

Register and log in at the LTO Land Transportation Management System (LTMS). This portal allows you to schedule appointments, fill out application forms, and track your application status.

4. Submit Your Application

Visit the LTO branch where you scheduled your appointment. Submit all the required documents, including your printed LTMS appointment confirmation (if applicable).

5. Pay the Fees

Fees may vary by location, but the Student Permit typically costs around ₱317.63. Confirm the exact amount on the LTO portal or at the branch.

6. Receive Your Student Permit

Once your documents are processed and payment is made, you will be issued your Student Permit, valid for one year. This allows you to practice driving, but only when accompanied by someone with a valid Non-Professional or Professional Driver’s License.

Key Requirements for a Student Permit:

• Age: Must be at least 16 years old
• TDC Certificate: Proof of completion from an LTO-accredited driving school or center
• Medical Certificate: Issued by an accredited physician and submitted electronically
• LTMS Account: Must have an active account for application and scheduling

Tip for Applicants:

Try to schedule your visit early in the morning to avoid long lines. And don’t forget to bring extra copies of your documents just in case!

Applying for a Non-Professional Driver’s License

A Non-Professional Driver’s License allows individuals to drive private vehicles for personal use in the Philippines. It’s ideal for people who don’t intend to drive commercially—such as for personal errands, family travel, or commuting.

Qualifications

To apply, you must:

• Be at least 17 years old.
• Have held a Student Permit for at least 30 days.
• Have completed both the Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) and Practical Driving Course (PDC) from an LTO-accredited driving school.
• Be physically and mentally fit to drive, as certified by a licensed physician.
• Have no unsettled traffic violations.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Register at the LTMS Portal

Create an account and apply through the LTO Land Transportation Management System (LTMS).

2. Prepare the Required Documents

Make sure to have both hard copies and soft copies ready:

• Valid Student Permit
• Medical Certificate from an LTO-accredited clinic
• Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) Certificate
• Practical Driving Course (PDC) Certificate
• One (1) valid government-issued ID (e.g., Passport, PhilSys, Voter’s ID)

3. Schedule and Take the Written Exam

Via LTMS, schedule your exam. It will cover:

• Traffic rules and regulations
• Road signs and markings
• Defensive driving and safety practices

Tip: You can review sample questions from the LTO portal or driving schools.

4. Take the Practical Driving Test

Once you pass the written exam, take the practical test. You’ll be assessed on:

• Control and maneuvering
• Awareness of traffic rules
• Defensive driving behavior

Tip: Bring your own vehicle or use one provided by the LTO (fees may apply).

5. Pay the Fees

You can pay at the LTO branch or through the LTMS portal. Estimated fees:

• Application Fee: ₱100
• Computer Fee: ₱67.63
• License Fee: ₱585

(Note: Fees may change—check the LTO website for updates.)

6. Get Your License

Once you pass both tests and complete payment, you’ll be issued a Non-Professional Driver’s License, valid for five years (or 10 years with a clean record).

Applying for a Professional Driver’s License in the Philippines

A Professional Driver’s License is required for individuals who operate vehicles for commercial or paid services—such as taxi, bus, or delivery drivers. While it also permits private driving, this license is essential for those whose driving involves earning income or transporting passengers or goods.

Who Should Apply for a Professional License?

• Individuals employed as drivers (e.g., public transport, logistics, or company service drivers)
• Those operating commercial vehicles like trucks, buses, or delivery vans
• Anyone planning to upgrade from a Non-Professional License for future work

Requirements for a Professional License

Before applying, make sure you meet these criteria:

• Age: At least 21 years old
  Experience: Must hold a valid Non-Professional Driver’s License for at least one year
• Medical Certificate: Issued by an LTO-accredited clinic, confirming you’re fit to drive
• Professional Driving Course (PDC) Certificate: Completed from an LTO-accredited driving school (required nationwide)
• Valid ID: A government-issued ID may be needed for identity verification
• LTMS Portal Account: Registration through the LTO LTMS Portal is required

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Enroll in a Professional Driving Course (PDC)
   Complete the mandatory PDC at any LTO-accredited driving school. This course covers in-depth road rules, commercial vehicle handling, and driver responsibilities.
2. Gather All Required Documents
   Prepare your PDC certificate, Medical Certificate, valid Non-Professional License, and one valid ID.
3. Schedule and Complete Your Application via LTMS
   Log in to your LTMS account to start the application. You may also visit an LTO branch, but online processing is now standard.
4. Take the Written Exam
   This exam focuses on traffic regulations, commercial driving laws, and hazard awareness.
5. Pass the Practical Driving Test
   Demonstrate your ability to drive commercial vehicles safely. You’ll be tested on control, road behavior, and safety compliance.
6. Pay the Application Fees
   The total cost varies depending on vehicle classification and license validity. As of writing, fees range from ₱820 to ₱1,050. (Double-check with the LTO website or nearest branch.)
7. Receive Your Professional Driver’s License
   Once all steps are completed successfully, you’ll receive your official Professional License—valid for five years.

Pro Tips for Applicants

• Practice before your test—especially if you’re handling larger vehicles.
• Arrive early at the LTO office or choose off-peak days to avoid long queues.
• Check restrictions: Your license restriction code determines the types of vehicles you can drive.

Key Terms to Remember

• LTMS: Land Transportation Management System – the online portal for most LTO services
• PDC: Professional Driving Course – mandatory for all professional license applicants
• Restriction Codes: Indicate the specific type of vehicle you’re authorized to drive

In 2025, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) continues to streamline the driver’s license renewal process through the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) online portal. This makes renewing your license more convenient—especially for eligible drivers with clean records and up-to-date information.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to renew your LTO driver’s license online:

Who Can Renew Online?

You can renew your license online if:

• Your license is still valid or has been expired for less than two years
• You have no pending traffic violations or apprehensions
• You have already completed the required Comprehensive Driver’s Education (CDE)
• Your biometric data/photo in the LTO system is still valid (LTO will notify you if you must appear in person)

Note: If your license has been expired for more than two years, you’ll need to reapply and retake both the theoretical and practical exams.

Step-by-Step Guide to Online Renewal via LTMS

1. Secure Your Medical Certificate
   Visit an LTO-accredited clinic to get a medical certificate. The results will be sent electronically to LTO—no need to upload it manually.
2. Visit the LTMS Portal
   Go to the official website: https://portal.lto.gov.ph
3. Log In or Create an Account
   If you don’t have an account yet, register using your personal and license details.
4. Select ‘Renew Driver’s License’
   Once logged in, navigate to Licensing > Driver’s License > Renew License.
5. Review & Update Information
   Check that all your information is up-to-date. The system will prompt you for any additional documents or requirements.
6. Pay the Renewal Fee
   Settle the fees via the online payment gateway using a debit/credit card or supported e-wallets.
7. Schedule an Appointment (If Required)
   Some offices may require a photo or biometric update. If prompted, choose your preferred LTO branch and schedule a visit.
8. Print the Acknowledgment Slip
   This serves as proof of your online transaction. Bring it to your chosen LTO branch if a visit is needed.
9. Receive Your New License
   Depending on your case, your license will either be:
   • Released immediately at the branch after your visit, or
   • Delivered to your registered address if no in-person appearance is needed.

Quick Summary

Situation	Action
License valid or expired < 2 years	Proceed with renewal
Expired > 2 years	Reapplication required (TDC + practical test)
Changing license type	Follow upgrade process (not a standard renewal)
No violations in past 5 years	May qualify for 10-year validity

Staying informed about your license’s expiration date is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure uninterrupted driving privileges. Here’s what you need to know about license validity and how to prepare when your license is about to expire.

License Validity Period

• Non-Professional and Professional Driver’s Licenses:
  These are valid for 5 years by default. However, if you have no traffic violations during this period, you may qualify for a 10-year validity upon renewal under the LTO’s new rules.
• Student Permits:
  A student permit is valid for 1 year and cannot be renewed. Once it expires, you must apply for a non-professional driver’s license after completing the required driving course and exams. You can only apply for a professional license after holding a non-pro license for at least six months and meeting specific criteria.

What to Do When Your License Is Nearing Expiry

• Renew Early:
  You may renew your license 60 days before the expiry date. It’s best to renew at least a month in advance to avoid long queues or last-minute problems.
• Don’t Drive With an Expired License:
  Driving with an expired license is illegal and may result in fines or penalties. Make sure your license is valid before hitting the road.
• Prepare All Required Documents:
  Ensure you have updated supporting documents ready, such as:
  • Valid government-issued ID
  • Medical Certificate from an LTO-accredited clinic
  • CDE (Comprehensive Driver’s Education) Certificate for renewal
    

Choose Online or In-Person Renewal:
You can renew online via the LTO Online Portal or in person at any LTO branch. If you’re renewing online, make sure your account details are updated and accurate. Some processes like photo capture or biometrics might still require a quick visit.

Securing an LTO driver’s license is an important milestone for every Filipino who wants to drive legally on public roads. Whether you’re applying for a student permit, a non-professional license, or a professional driver’s license, following the right process helps you stay compliant with the law and ensures safety for yourself and others.

Thanks to the LTO’s improved systems in 2025—such as online license renewal, the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) portal, and extended license validity of up to 10 years for eligible drivers—it’s now easier and more convenient to manage your license needs.

By using this 2025 guide, you’re equipped with all the essential steps for license application, renewal, and document preparation. If you also need to renew your OR/CR, check out this step-by-step guide on how to renew OR/CR in the Philippines to stay fully compliant with vehicle registration requirements. Whether you choose to renew online or visit your nearest LTO branch, being informed helps avoid delays and keeps you road-ready.

Tip: Bookmark this guide, stay updated through the official LTO website, and share this article with friends or family members who might need it!