LTO Issues Official License Plate to First Vintage Classic Vehicle in Philippines

In a historic moment for car enthusiasts and preservationists alike, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) of the Philippines has marked a significant milestone by issuing an official license plate to the country’s first-ever registered vintage vehicle since the implementation of Republic Act 11698 (Vintage Vehicle Regulation Act) started. The handover ceremony, presided over by the LTO Chief, marked a significant step toward preserving and celebrating automotive heritage in the Philippines. It also celebrates the country’s rich automotive history and underscores the importance of preserving and recognizing our cultural heritage on the roads.

The vintage vehicle went through a meticulous process, ensuring that it met all minimum requirements for roadworthiness. The handover ceremony, which marked the culmination of this effort, symbolizes not just a motor vehicle registration but a commitment to preserving the rich history encapsulated within these classic automobiles. It was a particularly arduous task, both for the agency, the vehicle owner, and the entire vintage car enthusiast community as the official recognition for vintage vehicles has not been without its challenges.

Advocates for automotive heritage have long called for a streamlined process that acknowledges the unique characteristics and historical value of vintage cars. The issuance of an official license plate to the first-ever registered vintage vehicle signals a positive shift in recognizing the value of these classic automobiles.

LTO Issues Official License Plate to First Vintage Vehicle

LTO Issues Official License Plate to First Vintage Vehicle Registered Under Republic Act (RA) 11698

The Vintage Vehicle Regulation Act, also known as Republic Act No. 11698, is a legislative measure that acknowledges vintage automobiles as “an integral part of Philippine culture.” This law is designed with the primary objective of safeguarding and preserving the heritage associated with these classic vehicles. It fosters an environment that promotes engagement from entrepreneurs and industries in the extensive and growing global markets dedicated to vintage vehicle restoration. By doing so, the law creates opportunities for business growth while simultaneously enabling individuals involved in the industry—such as businessmen, technicians, and the workforce—to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills.

The overarching goal of this law is to stimulate participation in the restoration and preservation of vintage vehicles, recognizing them not only as tangible artifacts but as essential elements contributing to the cultural fabric of the Philippines. It also outlines the specific criteria for the registration and use of vintage vehicles. These vehicles, aged 40 years from their original manufacturing date, must undergo assessments to be deemed “roadworthy” before being allowed on the roads. The law classifies them as either concours, designated for exhibition, display, or contests, or “restomods,” signifying a restoration mode that respects the original design and structure. It also serves as the legal framework that encourages the development of expertise, the growth of related industries, and the perpetuation of the historical and cultural significance embedded in vintage automobiles.

The Significance of an Official License Plate for a Classic Vehicle

Vintage vehicles hold a special place in the hearts of many, serving as time capsules that transport us to bygone eras. Whether it’s the iconic design, the nostalgic feel, or the historical significance, these classic cars are a testament to the evolution of the automotive industry. By officially recognizing and registering vintage vehicles, the owner of the vehicle joins the LTO in taking a step towards recognition of the historic automotives for future generations.

An official license plate not only adds a touch of authenticity to a vintage vehicle but also signifies its legal recognition on the road. This recognition is crucial for vintage car owners, providing them with a sense of pride and assurance that their cherished vehicles are officially acknowledged by the authorities. It also establishes a framework for responsible ownership and ensures that these vehicles comply with necessary safety and environmental standards.”

LTO Issues Official License Plate to First Vintage Vehicle in Philippines
Image: LTO

Actual LTO Plate Handover Ceremony

The journey towards obtaining official recognition for vintage vehicles was not easy. This is why a ceremony was held at the LTO Central Office in Quezon City along with the actual handover of the official license plate of the country’s first-ever registered vintage vehicle. It was held in the presence of the LTO Chief himself, highlighting the significance of the ceremony which puts the Vintage Vehicle Regulation Act to good use and sets a precedent for the responsible enjoyment and preservation of vintage vehicles, ensuring that they continue to grace our roads, not merely as rolling relics of the past but as living testaments to a bygone era of automotive excellence. By officially recognizing and registering vintage vehicles, the LTO is taking a commendable step towards preserving this automotive heritage for future generations.

“With the passage of the Vintage Vehicle Regulation Act, the LTO aims to register roadworthy vintage vehicles while also encouraging owners to take greater responsibility for maintaining their vehicles in order to preserve their historical value,” the LTO Chief has said. This legislation reflects a dual purpose: allowing the registration and use of vintage vehicles while instilling a sense of responsibility among owners to uphold their vehicles’ historical significance.

Vintage Vehicle Exclusions

It is crucial to note that replicas and reproductions are excluded from the “vintage vehicle” category, underscoring the importance of authenticity in preserving automotive heritage. The legislation not only acknowledges the intrinsic value of these vintage automobiles but also seeks to foster a community that appreciates and cares for these rolling pieces of history; but this moment also serves as an inspiration for enthusiasts, collectors, and the automotive community at large. 

Promoting Tourism and Cultural Identity

Beyond the automotive community, the recognition of vintage vehicles can have broader implications for tourism and cultural identity. Vintage car rallies, exhibitions, and events can become important attractions, drawing enthusiasts and tourists alike. This not only fosters a sense of community among vintage car enthusiasts but also promotes the cultural richness of the Philippines.

Looking Ahead

As the first registered vintage vehicle in the country proudly displays its official license plate, it opens the door for countless others to follow suit. The LTO’s commitment to recognizing and preserving automotive heritage sets a positive precedent for the future. It is a call to action for vintage car owners, enthusiasts, and policymakers to work hand in hand to further develop and enhance the appreciation of our rich automotive legacy.

Summary 

The issuance of an official license plate to the first-ever registered vintage vehicle in the Philippines is a cause for celebration among automotive enthusiasts and cultural preservationists. This milestone not only acknowledges the historical significance of vintage cars but also paves the way for a renewed appreciation of our automotive heritage. As more vintage vehicles hit the roads with official recognition, we can anticipate a future where the past seamlessly coexists with the present, creating a unique tapestry of cultural identity on the highways of the Philippines.

LTO Cabadbaran City Office Location and Contact Information

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) in Cabadbaran City refers to the sole LTO office based in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte: the LTO Cabadbaran District Office (DO). Like the other LTO offices in the Philippines, the LTO Cabadbaran District Office (DO) was also created so the agency can offer fast, convenient, accessible, and affordable LTO services to the people. With the LTO office in Cabadbaran City, the agency can now monitor and regulate the drivers, car owners, and operators in the area better. It also helps them manage and oversee the vehicle use on public roads and the entire land transport service in Cabadbaran City and its geographical area of responsibility (GAOR). The LTO, through the Cabadbaran District Office, also keeps up with its mandate as a regulatory force in the local land transport sector and ensures that its core programs and services reach the drivers, operators, and pedestrians in these parts.  

Famously known for its rich cultural heritage, the  evident in its preserved colonial period houses and its archaeological collections. It houses the famed Cabadbaran Ancestral Houses—a set of old Spanish architecture houses, which includes the Atega Ancestral Home, the biggest and most beautifully preserved house in the CARAGA region. It is also home to Cabadbaran Museum which houses artifacts from Cabadbaran’s four (4) archeological sites. The city also has varied ecotourism destinations, including CARAGA’s highest peak, mile-long tunnels to adventure tourism sites, and a booming economy based on agro industry, commerce and trade, and export and industrial products, as well as modern transport, communications, banking and accommodation facilities, attracting investors and tourists, and making it an ideal host for local government offices like the LTO.

lto Cabadbaran office location and contact number

What is LTO Cabadbaran City

LTO Cabadbaran City refers to the lone LTO office stationed in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte: the LTO Cabadbaran District Office (DO). This office serves as the frontliner of the LTO Central Office in the local area of Cabadbaran City, offering different LTO programs and services to the Agusanons within the city premises. It also helps the LTO to connect with the Agusanons in the area, by bringing closer the core LTO programs and services and making them more accessible and more affordable to those who need them, particularly the locals who work behind the wheels and in the land transport sector.

LTO Cabadbaran District Office (DO)

As the only LTO district office in Cabadbaran City, the LTO Cabadbaran District Office (DO) offers a more convenient alternative to visiting the LTO offices, especially for the local drivers, car owners, and operators who wish to acquire the required documentation and comply with the LTO requirements. The Cabadbaran District Office also helps communicate the agency’s desire to make it simpler for the drivers and operators to join LTO-initiated activities and participate in LTO-related campaigns towards road safety.

List of Services Offered by LTO Cabadbaran DO

As all LTO services are offered in an effort to maintain road safety, help the people comply with LTO requirements, and consequently, allow the drivers and operators to prove that they are roadworthy, responsible, and deserving of the privilege to drive, numerous LTO agencies are opened in various places including the City of Cabadbaran.

These agencies all intend to offer following LTO services (though they aren’t always able to) to keep the roads safe:

  • License and Permit
    • Student Permit

    • New Driver’s License (Non-Professional)

    • Conductor’s License

    • Plain or Advance Renewal of Driver’s/Conductor’s License and Renewal of Driver’s License of Filipino Living Abroad

    • Miscellaneous License Transactions

    • Renewal of Driver’s / Conductor’s License with Examination [Expired for more than two (2) years] and/or with ten (10) or more but less than forty (40) Demerit Points

    • Change Classification from Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL)  Code to Professional Driver’s License Code with Same Driver’s License (PDL) Code

    • Additional Driver’s License Code/s

    • Conversion of Foreign Driver’s License to Philippine Driver’s License Including Renewal of Expired Philippine Driver’s License with a Valid Foreign Driver’s License

    • Change Classification from Professional Driver’s License (PDL) Code to Non-Professional Driver’s License Code (NPDL), Dropping of DL Code and Change Clutch Type

    • Request for System Updates (RSU) for Double License

    • Request for System Update (RSU) for License and Customer Details/Misrepresentation of Age/Identity

    • Accreditation of Medical Clinics – New

    • Accreditation of Medical Clinics – Renewal

    • Registration of Physicians – New

    • Registration of Physicians – Renewal

    • Accreditation of Driving School / Driving Enhancement Program Training Center – New

    • Accreditation of Driving School / Driving Enhancement Program Training Center – Renewal

    • Accreditation of Driving Instructor – New

    • Accreditation of Driving Instructor – Renewal

    • Examination for Driving School Instructors

    • Driving Enhancement Program (DEP)

  • Vehicle Registration
    • Initial Registration of Motor Vehicle (MV)

    • Renewal of Motor Vehicle (MV) Registration

    • Storage of Motor Vehicle

    • Miscellaneous Transactions

    • Re-Stamping of Engine/Chassis Number

    • Request for Motor Vehicle Verification

    • Motor Vehicle Inspection

  • Miscellaneous Transactions
    • Duplicate OR/CR

    • Duplicate Plate

    • Transfer of Ownership

    • Annotation & Cancellation of Mortgage

    • Revision of Records

    • Duplicate License (for Lost Licenses)

  • Insurance

  • Proper Driver Education

  • Law Enforcement

  • Collection of fees from law enforcement violations

  • Drug testing

  • Emission testing

  • Inventory of Plates

  • Issuance of Vanity License Plates

  • Issuance of Special Plates

  • The use of self-service kiosks 

  • Process Application for New Driver’s License (DL) via the Automated Driver’s License Examination System (ADLES) Facility 

However, some LTO agencies are not well equipped to offer certain services, so it’s best to learn how to register for a Land Transport Management System (LTMS) portal account first and to create one if you haven’t yet, then to check with your preferred LTO branch office. You may either call or send an email to confirm that the service you need is available there before visiting the LTO branch to save time, money, and effort while working on your LTO-related needs.

How to Contact LTO Cabadbaran City

Reaching out to LTO Cabadbaran City can be done either by making a call, sending an email, sending a direct message via their official social media account, or by visiting the LTO Cabadbaran DO directly. You may also call, email, or visit its supervising office, the LTO Region 15 (CARAGA) regional office. 

To reach out to the LTO Region 15 (CARAGA) regional office, please check the following contact information:

Land Transportation Office CARAGA – Office of the Regional Director

Agency Code: 1500
Office Address: J.Rosales Avenue, Butuan City
Telephone Number: (085) 8171634
Head of Agency: Mr. Joel R. Consulta
Email Address: dotrcaraga13@gmail.com, joelconsulta1221@gmail.com
Operating Hours: 8AM – 5PM (Mondays-Fridays)

Contact Information

To reach out to LTO Cabadbaran District Office (DO) in Cabadbaran City, please call or message them via the following contact information:

LTO Cabadbaran District Office (DO)

Agency Code: 1510
Office Address: F. Dagani Street, Cabadbaran City
Telephone Number: (085) 8185854, +639 094975878
Head of Agency: Engr. Eugene P. Rula
Email Address: LTOCBRDO@gmail.com
Official Facebook Page: https://web.facebook.com/p/LTO-Cabadbaran-District-Office-100069764472727/
Operating hours: 8AM – 5PM (Mondays to Fridays)

Where is Cabadbaran City

Cabadbaran, officially known as the City of Cabadbaran, is a sixth class coastal component city and de jure capital of the province of Agusan del Norte. It’s a relatively new city with rich cultural heritage, well-preserved colonial period houses and archaeological collections, flat terrain with rolling hills, mountains, and swamplands. It sits in the northeastern part of Mindanao, about 29 kilometers (18 mi) from Butuan and 782.26 kilometers (486.07 mi) from Manila. The city is bounded by Tubay and Santiago to the north, Butuan Bay to the west, Magallanes and R. T. Romualdez to the south, and Madrid, Surigao del Sur and Sibagat, Agusan del Sur to the east.

Google Map Location

To learn more about the travel routes and the driving directions to Cabadbaran City and the LTO Cabadbaran District Office (DO), you may check the map below:

LTO Cabadbaran District Office (DO)

List of LTO Driver’s License Classification

Driver’s are not the same everywhere. There are, in fact, different types of drivers as categorized by the different classifications of driver’s licenses (DL). In the Philippines, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) regulates the drivers and identifies who can drive what vehicle through the different LTO Driver’s License classifications. 

The different DL classifications exist so that the drivers of different types of vehicles can be categorized accordingly. You can get a certain class of driver’s license depending on your age, competence, the type of vehicles you can drive, how long you have been driving, as well as if you are driving for a living or not. Though the procedures for getting a driver’s license is generally the same for all types, there’s an innate difference in the driving tests and requirements, too. You can learn more about the different driver’s license classifications here.

drivers license classification in lto

What is an LTO Driver’s License (DL)

An LTO driver’s license is essentially a driving permit or a legal authorization expressly written in an official document confirming such an authorization, issued by the government (LTO, in particular) to an individual so they can legally operate one or more types of motorized vehicles—like motorcycles, cars, trucks, or buses—on a public road. These different license types are often made from plastic and take the size of a credit card.

The driver’s license issued by LTO also has different categories or classifications. Each type offers different levels of permission to drive. The type or class of driver’s license you can get highly depends on your age, competence, the type of vehicles you can drive, how long you have been driving, as well as if you are driving for a living or not. It also defines where you can legally drive a motor vehicle. Though the license application procedures are generally the same, there are different evaluation procedures, requirements, and fees for each class, and the difficulty of the driving test also varies considerably between DL classes.

LTO Driver’s License (DL) Classifications

There are several classifications for LTO driver’s licenses in the Philippines. As of writing, there are three types of driver’s licenses currently being issued in the country.

Student Permit

One of the most exciting parts of becoming an adult is taking care of things only adults are allowed to do, just like driving. In the Philippines, every driver is required to go through a “student” phase, the period when they need to secure a student permit and operate a motor vehicle in public, under the guidance of either a non-professional or professional licensed driver. It’s like the first step to take or the first level in getting a driver’s license, so to speak. For some, it is a rite of passage—one that many teenagers look forward to.

To secure a student permit, the interested applicant needs a notarized letter from either a parent or guardian (for minors), proof of identity (original and certified true copy (CTC) of your PSA-authenticated birth certificate with receipt or original and photocopy of your passport), and Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN). Of course, it’s a given that the applicant must be at least 18 years old, physically and mentally stable, and able to speak and understand English and Tagalog.

Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL)

Tired of being chaperoned in your own ride? Well, if you are of age and have survived a month on a student permit, then you can go on and secure your first government-issued ID card by applying for the Non-Professional Driver’s License. This license classification is designed for rookie drivers fresh out of the “student” phase as well as those who have no intention of driving a public vehicle or any motor vehicle for a living. It is the perfect license for those who intend to drive private vehicles that weigh no more than 4500 kilograms, including hatchbacks, pick-up trucks, or sports utility vehicles (SUVs).

To secure an NPDL, applicants must pass the written examination composed of 40 randomized questions by acquiring at least 30 correct answers. Other requirements include a valid student permit that is at least a month old, a medical certificate electronically transmitted from any LTO-accredited medical clinic, doctor, or if you are a military personnel, a valid AFP/PNP organic personnel ID and a negative drug test result from a DOH-certified drug testing facility, a clearance certificate from either NBI, court, or commanding officer (which applies only to medical personnel).

Professional Driver’s License (PDL)

However, if you are securing a driver’s license in the name of pursuing a career as a public utility vehicle (PUV) driver or a commercial driver in the Philippines, what you will need is neither a student driver’s permit nor a Non-Professional Driver’s License but a Professional Driver’s License (PDL). This is a requirement for drivers who intend to operate vehicles that weigh more than 4600 kilograms like bulldozers and other heavy construction vehicles.

To apply for this class of driver’s license, applicants must be at least 18 years old, has secured a medical certificate electronically transmitted from any LTO-accredited medical clinic or doctor or, if you are a military personnel, a valid AFP/PNP organic personnel ID, a negative drug test result from a DOH-certified drug testing facility, and a clearance certificate from either NBI, court or commanding officer (applicable only for medical personnel). Unlike the written examination for Non-Professional Driver’s License, a Professional Driver’s License requires you to secure a score of at least 45 out of 60 random questions which can either be in English or in Tagalog.

Other Driver License Not Issued by the LTO

Aside from the LTO-issued driver’s license, there is another type of driving license that citizens can acquire to be able to drive legally on public roads.

International Driver’s License/Permit (IDP)

An international driver’s license, otherwise known as the international driver’s permit (IDP), is a license issued to permanent residents of the Philippines who would like to be able to use their license to drive a motor vehicle freely on the roads of over 150 other countries in the world, except for Australia and Spain which allow Filipinos to operate vehicles with either their professional or non-professional license. 

Unlike the LTO driver’s license, the IDP is only issued at the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP), the country’s biggest and oldest auto club committed to the general welfare of motorists in the Philippines. To secure an IDP, motorists applicants need to submit two (2) photocopies of their current driver’s license and two (2) 2×2 pictures with white background.

Important Reminders

If you wish to secure any of these driver’s license, you’d want to take note of these tips and reminders:

  • If it’s your first time to secure a driver’s license, you will need to start with a student permit before you can apply for the other classes. 

  • In Spain and Australia, regular LTO-issued driver’s license, whether Non-Professional or Professional driver’s license, can be used.

  • Non-professional driver’s license (NPDL) issued for the first time is only valid for five (5) years.

  • Holders of license with five-year validity must take the PME within 60 days before their 3rd birthdate from the issuance of their license.

  • Those with a ten-year license, must undergo their PME before their 4th and 7th birthdays from the issuance of their license.

  • For those who are securing an LTO driver’s license, you may do so via the Land Transport Management System (LTMS) online portal.

  • Regardless if you are initiating the driver’s license in person or online, you will need a medical certificate electronically transmitted to the LTO by an LTO-accredited medical clinic. 

Video: How to Get a Non-Professional LTO Driver’s License in the Philippines

For a clearer guide on how to secure an LTO Non-Professional driver’s license (NPDL), you may check out this video guide posted by It’s Ally.

https://youtu.be/l2TX1Zupn1c

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions and answers regarding the LTO Driver’s License in the Philippines:

1. Does the LTO accept online driver’s license applications?

Yes. Applications for an LTO driver’s license may be done online if you register an account on the LTMS portal. You might still need to visit an LTO office though, especially for NPDL and PDL as you will need to take the LTO exams before a driver’s license can be issued to you. You may also apply for any LTO driver’s license through any of the LTO branches nationwide, though you’d want to check first if you need an appointment or if they entertain walk-in applicants. 

2. How long is the validity period of an LTO driver’s license?

Depending on the license classification, the following validity period may apply: 

  • For Student Permits: The validity period is one year. 

  • For first-time professional and non-professional driver’s licenses as well as those who are renewing with traffic violations: The validity period is five years. 

  • For those with NPDL or PDL with a clean record: The license may be renewed with a 10-year validity period as per Republic Act 10930.

3. Where can I find the expiry date of my driver’s license?

If you are looking for the expiry date of your driver’s license, then you can find it on the card’s front side. The validity period of your DL will also depend on whether your license is issued before or after your birthday. If your license was issued before your birthday, the current year is included in the validity period. Otherwise, the current year is not included when counting the validity period. 

4. Where can I find the information on my license classification? 

If you need to check your LTO driver’s license for the license class and DL code, then you can turn your license card face-down and look. The license classification information is in the back, unlike the old one which is on the front side.

Summary

When it comes to driving, it is imperative to consider the age, competence, the type of vehicles you can drive, how long the driver has been driving, as well as if they are doing it for the money or not. It is because these factors decide how well they can drive safely and if they deserve to be allowed on the road with a motor vehicle. After all, the main goal of issuing a driver’s license and having restriction codes added is to regulate the drivers by allowing only the responsible and roadworthy ones to ensure not just their safety, but also the safety of the people around.  It is important to understand the difference between the different driver’s license classifications not only because there are varying processes of its application but also because the classification can tell a lot about how well the driver can keep the motor vehicles and the roads safe.

error: Content is protected !!