LTO Driver's License Application 2026: New License
Quick answer
To get a new LTO driver's license in 2026, you need a student permit held for at least 31 days, a Practical Driving Course (PDC) certificate, a medical certificate, and passing scores on the written and practical exams. A non-professional license costs about PHP 753 in total. You start with an LTMS account and finish at an LTO office.
Requirements
- LTMS account at portal.lto.gov.ph with your LTO client ID.
- Valid student permit, held at least 31 days.
- Practical Driving Course (PDC) certificate from an LTO-accredited driving school, transmitted to LTMS.
- Medical certificate from an LTO-accredited clinic, sent electronically.
- One valid ID, original + photocopy.Original + photocopy
- Age: at least 17 for non-professional, 18 for professional.
- For professional: proof you meet the extra rules for professional drivers.
Fees
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | PHP 100 | |
| License fee | PHP 585 | |
| Computer fee | PHP 67.63 | |
| PDC at driving school | Varies | Paid to the school, not LTO |
| Medical exam | Varies | Paid to the clinic |
Steps
Online
1. Log in to LTMS and check that your student permit and profile are correct
2. Finish your PDC
The school sends the certificate to LTMS.
3. Get your medical exam at an accredited clinic
4. Apply for a driver's license in LTMS and book a schedule if offered
Walk-in
1. Go to an LTO licensing center with your documents
2. Take the written (theoretical) exam
3. If you pass, take the practical driving test
4. Pay the fees and have your photo and signature taken
5. Get your license card, or a temporary paper license if cards are out of stock
Processing time
- Same day at the LTO office if you pass both exams.
- First license is valid for 5 years.
Where to apply
- Apply on the official website: https://lto.gov.ph/
- Find LTO offices
Common problems and fixes
Failed the written exam
You can retake after a waiting period.
PDC or medical not in LTMS
Ask the school or clinic to resend it electronically.
LTMS login issues
Reset your password on the portal. Never share it with fixers or "assistance" pages.
Paper license instead of card
It is valid while cards are unavailable.
Student permit expired
Get a new student permit first.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a new driver's license in 2026?
About PHP 753 for a non-professional license, plus PDC and medical costs.
How long must I hold a student permit before applying?
At least 31 days.
What is the difference between professional and non-professional?
A professional license lets you drive for a living, such as jeepney, taxi or delivery drivers. A non-professional license is for private use.
How long is a new driver's license valid?
5 years for a first license.
Can I take the LTO exam online?
The theory course and some steps are online, but the exams are taken at an LTO office.
What happens if I fail the practical test?
You can retake it after the waiting period set by LTO.
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