No—you usually cannot use a temporary paper-type driver’s license outside the Philippines or in most foreign countries. While it is valid locally, foreign authorities and car rental companies often do not accept it.
This guide explains everything you need to know about using a temporary paper-type driver’s license as well as the rules that apply in its usage so you can better prepare for your trip abroad.
What is a Paper-Type Driver’s License
A temporary paper-type license is a provisional driver’s license document issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) when the official plastic card is not yet available. You receive one so you can legally drive while waiting for the release of your actual license card. It serves as your valid proof of driving authority and contains the same key information found on the physical card. However, its use comes with limits—primarily in terms of validity period, ease of verification, and acceptance in certain transactions.
Limits and Scope of Use
As mentioned above, the use of temporary paper-type driver’s license have specific restrictions, such as:
- Valid only until the indicated expiry or until the plastic card is released
- Must always be presented together with at least one government-issued ID for verification
- May not be accepted by some private establishments that prefer the plastic card (e.g., banks, insurance offices, rentals)
- Can be used for traffic stops, checkpoints, and LTO transactions as long as it is within validity
- Easily damaged, so laminating or protecting it with a sleeve is recommended
- Should be replaced by the official plastic card once LTO announces availability
Can it Be Used Abroad?
No. A temporary paper license is almost never accepted overseas because:
- It is not a durable, universally recognized ID.
- Foreign police and rental companies rarely understand or recognize temporary formats.
- Most countries require a physical, card-type license and sometimes an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Even if the temporary license is valid in the Philippines, it is still not recommended for international travel. Using only a temporary license abroad can lead to issues with police, insurance, and rental car agencies.
Why Temporary Paper Licenses Are Not Accepted Abroad
Here’s what makes it difficult:
- Lack of Recognition: Foreign authorities are not familiar with paper-type temporary licenses, so they may treat them as invalid.
- ID Requirements: Most countries expect a photocard license, not a printed receipt-style document.
- Car Rental Policies: Many rental companies refuse temporary licenses. Even if they accept them in rare cases, they may demand extra documents like a passport, proof of address, and an IDP—none of which are guaranteed to work.
- Insurance Problems: If you get into an accident and only present a temporary license, your insurance claim may get rejected.
Do I Need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
In many cases, yes. An IDP acts as a translation of your license and is required in several countries.
But there’s something important you must know: An IDP is only valid when shown together with your physical driver’s license.
This means:
- You cannot use an IDP alone.
- You cannot depend on an IDP if you only have a temporary paper license.
- Many foreign authorities will reject the combination of “IDP + temporary paper license.”
Countries may require an IDP depending on:
- Where you’re traveling
- How long you’re staying
- Local rental car policies
Can I Apply for an IDP With a Temporary License?
For Philippine license holders:
- The Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) says that both paper receipts and card-type licenses are accepted for applying for an IDP locally.
- BUT this does not guarantee that other countries or car rental companies will accept that temporary license + IDP combo.
Most countries still require the actual physical card.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For your reference, here are some common questions and answers regarding the use of temporary paper-type driver’s license:
1. Can I rent a car abroad with a temporary license?
Usually no. Rental companies follow strict rules and require permanent photocard licenses.
2. Is it risky to travel with only a temporary license?
Yes. If you get stopped or figure in an accident, you may face fines or legal trouble.
Tips and Reminders
To avoid problems while traveling abroad, keep these simple tips in mind:
- Wait for your permanent card-type driver’s license before traveling.
- Apply for an IDP only when your permanent license is available.
- Check the embassy website of the country you’re visiting to confirm their driving rules.
- Ask your rental car company if they require an IDP or specific documents.
- Keep your passport, IDP, and physical license together when traveling.