LTO Driver's License Application 2026: New License
Quick answer
You can apply for a non-professional driver's license at 17, after holding a student permit for at least 1 month. You also need the 8-hour Practical Driving Course (PDC) and a medical certificate, then you must pass LTO's written and practical exams. LTO charges a PHP 585 license fee and a PHP 67.63 computer fee, plus an application fee. A first license is valid for 5 years.
What are the requirements?
- Age 17 or older. At 17, bring a parent's or guardian's consent and their valid government ID.
- A student permit issued at least 1 month earlier. See LTO student permit.
- A PDC certificate from an LTO-accredited driving school, LTO Driver's Education Center or TESDA training center, sent to LTO electronically. Bring the original and one photocopy.Original + photocopy
- A medical certificate from an LTO-accredited clinic, sent electronically. Bring the original and one photocopy.Original + photocopy
- An LTMS account.
How much does it cost?
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| License fee | PHP 585 | Paid to LTO |
| Computer fee | PHP 67.63 | Paid to LTO |
| Practical Driving Course | PHP 2,500 to PHP 8,000 | Paid to a third party (driving school); depends on vehicle type |
| Medical exam | Set by the clinic | Paid to a third party, not LTO |
LTMS or the LTO cashier shows the application fee and your total before you pay.
How do you apply, step by step?
Online
1. Log in to LTMS and check that your student permit and profile are correct
New to LTMS? See how to register.
2. Finish your PDC
The school sends the certificate to LTO.
3. Have your medical exam at an accredited clinic
Walk-in
1. Go to an LTO licensing center with your documents
2. Pay the fees at the cashier
3. Take the written exam
4. If you pass, take the practical driving test
5. Have your photo and signature taken
6. Receive your license card, or a temporary paper license if cards are out of stock
Where do you apply?
- Apply on the official website: https://portal.lto.gov.ph/
- Find LTO offices
What are the common problems and how do you fix them?
PDC or medical not in the LTO system
Ask the school or clinic to send it again.
Student permit less than 1 month old
Wait until 1 month has passed since it was issued.
Student permit expired
Renew it first. It can still be used if you finished your PDC while it was valid.
LTMS login issues
See our LTMS login help. Never give your password to fixers.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a new driver's license in 2026?
LTO charges a PHP 585 license fee and a PHP 67.63 computer fee, plus an application fee. The PDC and medical exam are paid separately.
How long must I hold a student permit before applying?
At least 1 month from the date it was issued.
What is the minimum age for a non-professional license?
17 years old, with a parent's or guardian's consent. Foreigners must be at least 18.
How long is a new driver's license valid?
5 years. If you have no violations in that time, your next renewal can be valid for 10 years.
How long is the Practical Driving Course?
At least 8 hours per license code. For motorcycles it may be done in one day.
What is the difference between professional and non-professional?
A professional license is for people who drive for a living, such as jeepney, taxi or delivery drivers. A non-professional license is for private use.
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