Drivers License Renewal 2025: Latest Information

In the Philippines, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) oversees all matters related to driver’s licenses, including issuance, renewal, driving tests, and driving courses. For both residents and visitors, maintaining a valid driver’s license is essential to avoid legal penalties and ensure continued driving privileges.

Key Takeaways:

• Driving without a valid driver’s license in the Philippines is punishable by law.
• If your license has been expired for over two years, you’ll need to obtain a new one entirely.
• Driver’s licenses in the Philippines can be renewed both in-person and online.
• Essential documents for renewing your driver’s license include a medical certificate and proof of completed driving courses.

In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of renewing your driver’s license, outlining the requirements, procedures, and costs involved.

Who is Eligible for a Ten-Year Driver’s License?

To initially acquire a driver’s license in the Philippines, applicants must undergo a 15-hour theoretical driving course followed by an 8-hour practical driving test. Those who successfully pass receive a driver’s license valid for five years. Upon renewal, if you have no traffic violations, you may renew your license for ten years.

Related Post: How to Get LTO Driver’s License in the Philippines [2025 Update]

What Are the Requirements for Renewing Your Driver’s License?

Renewing your driver’s license in the Philippines requires thorough preparation. Familiarity with the necessary documentation will ensure a smooth and efficient process. Here is a list of the key requirements you must meet:

General LTO Renewal Requirements:

• You may renew your driver’s license if it is set to expire soon or has expired within the past two years.
• Republic Act No. 10930 mandates that drivers renewing their license must complete the Comprehensive Driver’s Education (CDE) program and pass an online validation exam. This exam consists of 25 questions, and you need to correctly answer at least 13 to pass.
• Demerit Points: To avoid delays, ensure you have no unsettled traffic violations. Traffic offenses are assigned demerit points. Depending on your score:
  • 5 to 9 demerit points: You must pass the Driver’s Re-orientation Course (DRC).
  • 10 to 39 demerit points: You’ll need to pass both the DRC and a Theoretical Examination.
  • A driver’s license that has been expired for over two years: You will need to obtain certificates proving you’ve passed both the DRC, Theoretical Examination, and Practical Driving Test.

Required Documents for LTO Renewal:

• A valid or expired driver’s license.
• A completed LTO application form for renewal.
• A medical certificate from an LTO-accredited healthcare provider (bring both the photocopy and the original for verification).
• CDE Certificate with at least a 50% passing score.
• Applicable DRC and exam certificates if your license expired more than two years ago or you have accumulated demerit points.

Driver’s License Renewal Procedure:

Offline Renewal of a Driver’s License:

For those who prefer an in-person approach, follow these steps:

1. Complete the Application:
   • Fill out the Application for Driver’s License form at the LTO office. After completion, submit it along with the required documents.
2. Pay the Fees:
   • Proceed to pay the necessary renewal fees at the designated LTO counter.
3. Written Exam:
   • Take the written examination. Passing this exam allows you to move to the next step—your practical driving test.
4. Practical Driving Test:
   • Successfully passing the practical driving test will lead to having your biometric data taken and your picture captured.
5. Receive Your New License:
   • After completing these steps successfully, wait to receive your Official Receipt and your Driver’s License Card. If you fail any part of the test, you’ll need to retake it at a later date.

Online Renewal of a Driver’s License:

For those looking to save time, consider renewing your driver’s license online through the Land Transport Management System (LTMS) portal:

1. Register or Log In:
   • Visit the LTMS portal and either register or log in. If you’re a first-time user, you’ll need to set up your profile by filling in your name, birthdate, license number, and expiry date.
2. Choose License Type:
   • Navigate to the Licensing section on the dashboard, select Driver’s License from the application form, and upload a scanned copy of your medical certificate.
3. Select Renewal:
   • Choose Renewal from the application types and click Next.
4. Schedule an Appointment:
   • Pick an appointment slot at your preferred LTO office.
5. Pay Fees:
   • Make the applicable payment through the portal.
6. Visit LTO Office:
   • Once processed, visit the LTO office on the scheduled date to receive your Driver’s License Card.

Driver’s License Renewal for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs):

For Filipinos working abroad, the renewal process occurs in two stages:

Stage 1: Through a representative, prepare the following documents:

• An Original Letter of Authority authorizing your representative.
• Photocopies of your passport (photo, visa, departure, and latest arrival pages), driver’s license, and Official Receipt.
  • After submission, you’ll receive an Official Receipt but not the License Card. This will be sent to you upon your return.

Stage 2: Upon your return to the Philippines:

• Complete a drug test.
• Obtain a medical certificate from an LTO-accredited healthcare provider.
• Attend the Comprehensive Driver’s Education (CDE) program and pass the written and practical exams (if required).
• Submit your application form, certificates, and test results at an LTO office within 30 days of arrival. Bring the original and photocopies of your passport and Tax Identification Number (TIN) Card.
• Go to the Releasing Counter to get your License Card in exchange for the Official Receipt.

How Much Does It Cost to Renew a Driver’s License?

The cost for renewing your driver’s license in the Philippines depends on how long your license has been expired:

• General Fee: ₱585.00
• Late Renewal Penalties:
  • 1 day — 1 year before expiration: ₱75.00
  • 1 year — 2 years before expiration: ₱150.00
  • More than 2 years after expiration: ₱225.00 + ₱100.00 application fee = ₱910.00

Additional fees may apply if you’re switching from a non-professional to a professional license or if you require a specific restriction code.

Penalties for Late Renewal of a Driver’s License:

• Driving with an invalid driver’s license: Fine of PHP 3,000.00 and a one-year ban from obtaining a new license after payment.
• Submitting fake documents: Severe penalties for fraudulent applications.
• Driving with a valid foreign driver’s license beyond the allowed period of 90 days in the Philippines.

Tips for LTO License Renewal:

To ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Check Your License Expiry: Aim to renew your license at least one month before expiration to avoid penalties.
• Medical Examination: Complete your required medical exam ahead of time at clinics near LTO offices.
• Prepare Required Documents: Bring all necessary documents, including your current driver’s license, a completed LTO application form, and your medical certificate.
• Plan Your Visit: LTO offices can be busy, so schedule your visit early in the morning or on less crowded days. Utilize the online appointment system on the LTO website for quicker processing.

FAQs about Drivers License Renewal 2025: