The answer is yes, there is, indeed, a refresher course exclusively for traffic violators. Under Republic Act No. 10930, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) requires drivers with multiple violations or accumulated demerit points to attend a Driver’s Reorientation Course (DRC). The DRC serves as an intervention program to help drivers regain their discipline and keep the roads safer for everyone while reducing repeat offenses on the road.
If you’ve accumulated demerit points or repeated violations, you’ll need to take the DRC, complete it on time, and pass the exam. Not only will this protect your driving record — it also helps you become a more responsible and knowledgeable driver on Philippine roads.
LTO-Mandated Refresher Course for Violators
The DRC is a mandatory face-to-face seminar specifically designed by the LTO for violators and repeat offenders. It is conducted only by the LTO Driver’s Education Center (DEC) and was meant to educate traffic violators on safe driving habits, traffic rules, and the consequences of repeated offenses. Many drivers see this refresher course as an inconvenience, but it actually helps prevent future penalties or even losing your license completely. In fact, it serves as a second chance for drivers to correct their habits, understand traffic laws better, and avoid repeating the same mistakes on the road. By attending the course, violators not only settle their penalties but also regain their driving privileges legally and safely.
The DRC falls under the Driving Enhancement Program (DEP) of the LTO and is guided by Sections 14 and 15 of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of R.A. 10930.
Who Needs to Take the Refresher Course?
Drivers are required to attend the DRC depending on the number of demerit points accumulated from their traffic violations.
Here’s a quick guide:
- 5 or more demerit points
- Must complete a four-hour DRC at an authorized LTO DEC before renewing their driver’s license.
- 10 or more demerit points
- Must complete the DRC and pass a theoretical examination before license renewal.
- The exam consists of 60 randomly selected questions, and a passing score of at least 80% is required.
- 10 demerit points or the same violation committed thrice
- Must take the intervention program, complete the DRC module, and pass the DRC exam (25 questions, 80% passing rate).
- 40 demerit points
- Automatic revocation of the driver’s license.
Note: Failing to attend and finish the required DRC within 30 days from the last apprehension will lead to the suspension of your driver’s license until you comply.
Important Reminders
For your reference, here are some things you need to know about this mandatory refresher course:
- The DRC is only conducted by LTO Driver’s Education Centers — avoid unauthorized driving schools offering shortcuts.
- Cheating or falsifying certificates during the course or exam is punishable under Section 22 of R.A. 10930, which may lead to administrative or criminal charges.
- Keep track of your demerit points through your LTO LTMS account to know if you need to attend a DRC.
For updated information, visit the official LTO website, log in to your LTO LTMS Portal account, or reach out to LTO via the following:
- Office Address: Land Transportation Office – Central Office East Avenue, Quezon City,
- Email Address: ltomailbox@lto.gov.ph, ltoco.feedback@gmail.com, c3@lto.gov.ph
- Central Command Center: 1-342-586