If your driver’s license in the Philippines has expired for more than two (2) years, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) considers it “dormant.” This means you’ll have to retake both the written (theoretical) and practical driving exams before your license can be renewed.
This guide will help you understand what happens when your license becomes dormant, what to do to reactivate it, and the steps you need to take so you can drive legally again.
What Happens If You Don’t Renew Within 2 Years?
When your driver’s license remains expired for more than 2 years, it’s no longer valid for simple renewal. The LTO requires drivers to re-qualify through testing to make sure they still understand road rules, safety practices, and actual driving skills. This means that you’ll need to retake both the written and practical exams if your license has expired for over two years.
Once you pass, you can proceed with the normal renewal steps such as your medical exam, biometrics, and payment of fees.
License Expiration Periods and Rules
According to the LTO rules on driver’s license renewal, you need to follow these guidelines to ensure that only competent and updated drivers are allowed back on the road, keeping everyone safe.
1. Expired for Less Than 2 Years
- You can renew without retaking any exam.
- You just need to pay the late renewal penalty and complete your medical exam.
2. Expired for Over 2 Years but Less Than 10 Years
- Your license is now dormant.
- You must pass both the written and practical exams to reactivate it.
- You’ll also pay the late renewal penalties before LTO processes your license.
- The Comprehensive Driver’s Education (CDE) is not required in this case.
3. Expired for More Than 10 Years
- Your license can no longer be renewed.
- You must reapply for a new driver’s license, starting with a student permit (SP).
Renewal Process for Dormant Licenses
Once your license is expired for more than two years, here’s what you need to do to get it back:
Step 1. Take and pass the Written (Theoretical) Exam.
- Covers road signs, traffic laws, and driving safety.
Step 2. Take and pass the Practical Driving Exam.
- Tests your ability to operate a vehicle safely.
Step 3. Undergo a Medical Examination.
- Must be done in an LTO-accredited medical clinic.
Step 4. Pay Renewal and Penalty Fees.
- Fees vary depending on your license type and how long it’s been expired.
Step 5. Photo, Signature, and Biometrics.
- Done at the LTO office after you’ve passed all requirements.
Expert tip: Bring your old (expired) license card, even if it’s already invalid—it helps LTO trace your record faster.
Optional: Storing Your License
If you plan to stop driving temporarily, you also have the option to store your license at any LTO Licensing Center.
- You’ll pay a storage fee, and your license record will be updated as “on storage.”
- When you’re ready to drive again, you can reactivate it by visiting the same office.
If your driver’s license has expired for more than two years, you’ll need to retake the LTO written and practical exams before renewing it. Failing to do so means you cannot legally drive until you requalify.
To avoid the hassle, try to renew your license before it expires or within the two-year grace period. It saves you time, money, and effort—and keeps you road-ready at all times.