If you’re wondering if it’s possible to authorize someone to renew your driver’s license for you, the short answer is yes. The Land Transportation Office (LTO) allows you to appoint an authorized representative in the Philippines to renew your driver’s license on your behalf. This is especially useful for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) or Filipinos temporarily residing outside the country who cannot personally appear at an LTO branch.
If you want to learn more about how it works, then this guide can help.
How It Works
You can renew your driver’s license through a Letter of Authority or a Special Power of Attorney (SPA). This document gives another person — your trusted representative — permission to handle your renewal process.
Once your representative submits the complete requirements, the LTO will issue a Driver’s License Receipt (DLR) or a Temporary Driver’s License (TDL). When you return to the Philippines, you’ll need to personally appear at the same LTO office within 30 days to update your biometrics and get your physical card.
Requirements for Renewal via Authorized Representative
If you’re renewing your license from abroad, especially from countries like Australia where Philippine driver’s licenses cannot be renewed locally, prepare and send the following documents to your representative in the Philippines:
- Letter of Authority or Special Power of Attorney (SPA): Authorizing your representative to renew your license.
- Photocopy of your Passport: Include the first page, visa page, and the pages showing your last departure from the Philippines and latest arrival overseas.
- Photocopy of your Driver’s License and Official Receipt (DLR): If available.
- Valid ID of your Authorized Representative: With clear photo and signature.
Your representative must then submit these documents to:
- LTO Central Office, License Section (NCR), or
- Any LTO District Office or Licensing Center (if outside Metro Manila).
Step-by-Step Process
Here’s a quick guide on how to renew your driver’s license through an authorized representative in the Philippines:
Step 1. Prepare a Letter of Authority or SPA authorizing your trusted representative.
Step 2. Attach required documents – passport, license, and other IDs.
Step 3. Send the documents via mail or courier to your representative.
Step 4. Your representative goes to the LTO, submits the documents, pays the fees, and gets the receipts.
Step 5. Upon your return to the Philippines, you will need to visit the same LTO office with these receipts within 30 days for your photo, biometrics, and release of your card.
Fees and Penalties
You also need to prepare to pay the following for the renewal of your driver’s license through an authorized representative:
Renewal Fees:
- Professional Driver’s License: ₱350
- Non-Professional Driver’s License: ₱350
Penalties for Late Renewal:
- Expired for less than 1 year: ₱75
- Expired for 1 to less than 2 years: ₱150
- Expired for 2 years or more: ₱225
Additional Fees:
- Medical Exam: ₱300–₱500
- Duplicate or Lost Card: Around ₱453
- Application Fee (for licenses expired 2+ years): ₱100
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For your reference, here are some common questions and answers regarding license renewal via representatives:
1. Can I renew my driver’s license fully online?
Not yet. You can take the CDE exam and set an appointment online via the LTO Portal, but you (or your authorized representative) still need to go to an LTO branch for processing.
2. Is a medical exam required?
Yes. Every renewal requires a valid medical certificate from an accredited clinic.
3. What happens if my license has expired for over two years?
You’ll need to pay additional fees and retake the written and practical driving exams.
4. Can I authorize anyone?
Yes, as long as they are a trusted adult with valid identification and can present your signed authorization letter or SPA.
Video: Can An Authorized Representative Renew My Driver’s License For Me?
The LTO allows the processing of the renewal of a driver’s license via an authorized representative, making it easier for Filipinos and OFWs to stay compliant with licensing regulations. Just make sure your representative has all the proper documents and that you can come visit their office to get the actual license card in person within 30 days of returning to the Philippines. For more details, you may check out this video below:
@kuyas.ea Q.License renewal for OFWs or living abroad. #ltodriverslicensecode #driverslicense #ltoCard #lisensya ♬ original sound – Kuyas.ea – Kuya.ea
For the latest updates, fees, and requirements, always check the official LTO website and social media pages or visit your nearest LTO branch.