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List of LTO-Accredited Driving Schools

In case you didn’t know yet, the days when learning how to drive is as simple as learning from your parent, friend, or family driver are long gone. These days, it is mandatory to learn from an LTO-accredited driving school or instructor if you are looking to apply for either a professional or non-professional driver’s license. You also need to get a certificate of course completion for both the 15-hour theoretical driving course (TDC) and the eight-hour practical driving course (PDC) from an LTO-accredited establishment.

Also Read: List of LTO-Accredited Medical Clinics

But there are so many driving schools and steering campuses on the market right now. It’s hard enough to pick one from the numerous options. It’s even harder to pick one that offers quality instruction and extensive experience and expertise in steering cars and legal aspects.

Luckily, the government has taken it upon themselves to pick some driving schools to recommend, giving them the label of being LTO-accredited. If you are on the hunt for one, this article offers a complete list of all the LTO-accredited driving schools in the Philippines.

list of lto-accredited driving schools and instructors

What is an LTO-Accredited Driving School Instructor

An LTO-accredited driving school is a steering and driving learning institution that has received the government’s stamp of approval via the Land Transportation Office (LTO). These are private driving schools that applied for accreditation and were recognized by the agency after a series of screening and inspection procedures. Not only did they pass the standard required for the “quality training” they need to offer, but they are also recognized for their facilities and extensive experience and expertise in steering cars and all the legal aspects associated with it.

An LTO-accredited driving school is just one of the many options where you can take the LTO-mandated TDC and PDC. It is typically a private institution, so training with a driving school, even of it’s one that has been recognized by the LTO, isn’t free and it entails spending some money on. The fees, however, may vary depending on the type and prestige of the driving school. 

Complete List of LTO-Accredited Driving School Instrucor in the Philippines

To help you find the best LTO-accredited driving school in the area, here is the official list of driving schools with LTO accreditation across the Philippines, along with their address and contact number, as of writing.

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in Region I

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in Region II

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in Region III

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in Region IV-A

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in Region IV-B

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in Region V

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in Region VI

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in Region VII

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in Region VIII

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in Region IX

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in Region X

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in Region XI

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in Region XII

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in NCR-East

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in NCR-West

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in CAR

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in CARAGA

LTO-accredited Driving Schools in BARMM

These LTO-accredited driving schools are among the top choices for learning how to drive and completing the LTO-mandated driving courses. Some may cost more than others, so you may want to reach out to the driving schools directly, starting with the one closest to you for convenience. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Driving School

If the lists above don’t help you, considering these important factors may make choosing a driving school so much easier:

  • Location

Ideally, you’d want to pick a driving school nearby for convenience. After all, you’ll still need to go there for your lessons. Plus, if it’s around your area, you can get picked up or dropped off directly at home or at work. 

  • Certifications

More than the certifications you’ll be getting, it pays to check the types of certifications that the driving school has to know the type of reputation it has before deciding. After all, if you are paying thousands for your lessons, you need to make sure the place where you’re getting your lessons have the necessary certifications and licenses to teach you about how to become a responsible driver. 

  • Availability

Choosing a popular driving school is good, but if it has too many students that they can only offer rigid schedules, then, you might want to reconsider your options. After all, there’s no point in choosing a prestigious driving school and paying insanely expensive fees if you can’t attend your lessons because they don’t work around your schedule. It’s best to get in touch with the driving school you have your eye on to check for their available schedule and learning tools. 

  • Teaching Style

Different people have different learning styles. Having said that, you may also consider the different teaching styles and methods offered by the driving schools to ensure that you can pick one that matches your style and abilities to help you learn better.

Tips in Choosing the Perfect Driving School for You

If considering the proximity just doesn’t cut it for you, here are some other tips to help you choose the driving school to attend:

1.  Visit the facility. 

Learn about the program details regarding on-road practice and conditions, the instructor’s credentials, the program’s accreditation status, and how much liability the school carries.

2. Choose a school that allows the involvement of other adults (like your parents), especially during practice. 

Learning to drive takes hundreds, if not thousands, of hours to help student drivers achieve mastery. Finding a driving school that recognizes the need for support from families and friends during practice helps students get reinforced training that helps improve their progress.

3. Look for a driving school that doesn’t rush the learning process.

Although the theoretical classes are important, actual behind-the-wheel training is critical. Not everyone learns practical skills fast and if you are one of those kind, you will most definitely need extra practice so you will definitely benefit from a school that teaches at your pace.

4. Make sure the practical driving class is thorough. 

Driving schools with highly experienced instructors may be able to manage a great practical driving class despite limited time, so it’s best to ensure that the driving school you are picking offers such experience. 

5. Stay away from programs with emergency driving maneuvers training. 

Especially if you are a beginner, it’s best to avoid driving schools with skid control or other emergency driving maneuvers as part of its offerings. These programs have been found to increase crashes, so it’s not appropriate for novice drivers.

6. Check to see if your school is in good standing. 

Looking up a particular driving school for any negative feedback or review is an important step to take when choosing a driving school. After all, you are somehow putting your life on the line when you drive so it’s best to exercise due diligence to ensure that you are entrusting your life to capable hands and not to those who had history of disciplinary actions and violations.

7. Contact your insurance company. 

If the driving class is being taken to receive a discount on insurance, take the time to check directly with the insurance provider, rather than trusting the school’s word for it.

Frequently Asked Questions

For more information, we rounded up this list of the most common questions and answers regarding LTO-accredited driving schools and instructors in the Philippines. 

1. How much is a practical driving course (PDC) in an LTO-accredited driving school?

On average, the price for a practical driving course (PDC) at an LTO-authorized driving school ranges anywhere between Php1,200.00 to Php2,400.00 when taken online to as much as Php2,500.00 to Php8,000.00, depending on the vehicle required as well as the time required to attend. 

2. How many driving lessons do you need for school?

The rule of thumb is to attend about 20 to 25 driving lessons before you’re allowed to take the driving test.

3. Why is it better to go to a driving school?

Learning from a driving school allows you to get safety-focused education. It helps new drivers understand what should and should not be done on the road, allowing them to develop appropriate driving habits, and helping them understand the dangers of distracted driving.

4. Is the TESDA driving course also accredited by LTO?

Yes. The Driving NC II issued by the The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is also recognized by the LTO as an equivalent to the mandatory 8-hour Practical Driving Course (PDC) which is required when applying for a Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL) with restriction code (RC) 2 or driver’s license code B, B1, or B2.

5. Can I take the theoretical driving course (TDC) from a driving school online?

Yes. The Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) is the first step in getting a Student Driver permit from LTO. It is safe to say that it is the first step to your driving journey. It is also available online and is typically inclusive of a Driver’s Manual and a TDC Certificate of Completion.

6. Is attending a driving school required by LTO?

Yes. The recent changes at LTO requires student drivers to go to a driving school in the Philippines to take the mandatory 15-hour theoretical driving course (TDC). New drivers looking to secure a Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL) also need to take the 8-hour practical driving course (PDC) before they can apply for a license from the LTO.

Summary

LTO-accredited driving schools are still the top choice for those who wish to learn how to drive and eventually secure a driver’s license in the Philippines. Not only are you assured of high quality training that received the LTO’s stamp of approval, but you can also be sure that you are learning things the way the LTO intends you to. This will help you stay safe on the road, especially when you are allowed to go out and drive on your own. 

There are numerous LTO-accredited driving schools in the country, so if you find yourself having a hard time picking the best school to go to, you can refer to the tips listed above for reference. 

If you have any other questions, feel free to comment below or contact LTO by visiting any of the LTO offices in the Philippines. 

How to Get LTO Practical Driving Course (PDC) Certificate?  

The LTO Practical Driving Course (PDC) is one of the most recent additions to the list of requirements set by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) for those who wish to drive legally on Philippine public roads. It is a prerequisite for securing a PDC certificate—a mandatory documentary requirement for LTO driver’s license (DL) application in the Philippines. 

To understand what getting a PDC certificate entails and how it can be helpful for drivers like you, we looked into the details of the course and compiled the information in one comprehensive guide that you can use when it’s your turn to go seeking for a PDC certificate.

lto pdc certificate

What is the LTO Practical Driving Course (PDC)

Attendance and completion of the LTO Practical Driving Course (PDC) is a mandatory requirement for anyone applying for new driver’s licenses, or those who already have one but want to add a new restriction code. It was mandated for those whose student permits were issued from August 3, 2020, as well as those drivers who wish to get Additional Restriction Codes (RC) in their DLs. It is an eight (8) hour training that allows aspiring drivers to have hands-on driver training which will be useful when they are set free on public roads. It culminates with the issuance of the Practical Driving Course (PDC) certificate which will then complete your requirements for your DL application. 

During the 8-hour PDC training, you can expect to learn about the following:  

  • Pre-driving checkup
    • Check the tires and batteries

    • Adjust mirrors, light, and windshield

    • Use the seatbelt/helmet

    • Check the hand and foot brake

    • Disengage the clutch when starting the engine

  • Driving skills
    • Steering

    • Engine control

    • Use of brakes

    • Speed control

    • Turning left, turning right, u-turn

    • Backing

    • Parking

  • Observance of traffic rules
    • Right of way to other vehicles
      • While approaching an intersection

      • In changing lines

      • In passing/being passed

    • Stop lights/signals and others

    • Right of way
      • For other vehicles

      • For pedestrian

      • For emergency

      • Yielding of right of way

      • For bicyclist

The PDC certificate is not exactly a welcome addition to the LTO requirements. Many people complain that it is anti-poor as the course can cost anywhere from ₱1,400.00 to ₱8,000.00 at an LTO-accredited Driver Education Center (DEC). Luckily, there are other free options even though you can also take it from any LTO-accredited driving schools, authorized driving school instructors/administrators, and from LTO Driver Education Centers (DECs) in LTO offices if you do not mind the cost.

Who Needs the LTO Practical Driving Course (PDC) Certificate?

Anyone can take the LTO-mandated Practical Driving Course (PDC) and secure a PDC certificate. However, the PDC certificate is most helpful to the following:

  • Those who are upgrading their student permit to a non-professional driver’s license.

  • Professional and non-professional driver’s license holders who wish to apply for additional restriction codes (RC)

Qualifications

Whether the PDC is taken at an LTO-accredited driving schools, authorized driving school instructors/administrators, or from LTO Driver Education Centers (DECs) in LTO offices, only the following are allowed to take the PDC and secure a PDC certificate:

  • Filipinos who are 17 years old and above and below 65 years old

  • Filiino drivers who wish to get additional restriction codes on their licenses

  • Foreign nationals who are holders of Philippine-issued driver’s license

  • Foreign nationals in the Philippines who are between 17 to 65 years old and who wish to secure a Philippine driver’s license

Requirements

To get a PDC certificate, you need:

  • Valid driver’s license / student permit (must not be expired)

  • Your own motorcycle (must be accompanied by a duly license driver). 

  • Vaccination Card

  • Black or blue ballpen

  • Confirmed LTO appointment slip

  • Your own Safety Gear (Elbow Pad, Knee Pad & Helmet)

LTO-PDC-CERTIFICATE

How to Get an LTO Practical Driving Course (PDC) Certificate?

To get a PDC certificate, you may follow these steps:

Step 1: Check the available schedule for Practical Driving Course (PDC), either at an LTO-accredited driving school, at an LTO DEC, or at any LTO office (especially if you are interested in the free PDCs).

Step 2: Choose your preferred schedule and practical driving course depending on your driving needs and reserve a slot.

Step 3: Enroll in your chosen course and schedule.

Step 4: Attend the course on your preferred schedule and complete the series of driving exercises and the required driving hours.

Step 5: Pass the daily assessment of the driving instructors.

Step 6: Once you successfully complete your practical driving training, your PDC certificate of completion along with your biometric will be uploaded directly to the LTO website.

Important Reminders

When trying to secure a PDC certificate, here are some thing worth keeping in mind:

  • Free PDC is available at selected LTO DECs so make sure you check on available schedules regularly.

  • PDC certificates are only required from individuals applying for a new driver’s license, if their student-driver permits were issued from August 3 onwards.

  • A valid student permit is required to take the PDC.

  • Make sure you come on time on your chosen schedule to avoid forfeiture of your appointment.

  • Bring your own motor vehicle (MV) or allot funds for rental in case the vehicle use charge is not included in the fees.

  • Some LTO DECs only cater to limited number of applicants per day so make sure you arrive on time to avoid wasting your slot.

  • Applicants for Additional Restriction Codes (RC) will also be required to secure a PDC certificate, which will vary depending on the additional restriction code being applied for.

  • Switch all communication devices to silent mode.

  • Do not forget to bring your own ballpen. (Black or blue ink)

  • Since PDC trainees will need to undergo a aeries of driving exercises, students are expected to
    • Bring a VALID driver’s license / student permit (must not be expired)

    • Bring your own motor vehicle (must be accompanied by a duly license driver). 

    • Wear decent and appropriate riding attire. This means no short pants, sleeveless shirts/blouse and slippers. high-heeled shoes and sandals are allowed.

  • Individuals who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs shall be immediately barred from entry.

Video: LTO Practical Driving Course Updated Requirements

To learn more about what you need to secure your PDC certificate, watch this explainer video posted by Ed Ashir PH – Team Kagala, a Youtube channel dedicated to the life of a traveler and a rider. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For your reference, here are some common questions and answers regarding getting your PDC certificate:

1. Do I need to enroll in NC the Practical Driving Course (PDC) when upgrading my Student Permit?

Yes. You will still need to enroll for the Practical Driving Course (PDC) when upgrading your student permit.  This is a course meant to teach license applicants about the basics of practical driving and it is quite different from the Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) which is required for Student Permit applications. 

2. Can an expired student license be used for purpose of practical driving course?

No. While an expired student driver’s permit can be used to apply for a Non-Professional Driver’s License, it can’t be used for purposes of the practical driving course. It’s best to get the 8-hour PDC course completed within the year, before your student permit expires. 

3. Will I need a PDC certificate when applying for a license to drive a motorcycle?

Yes. A PDC certificate is necessary to apply for a driver’s license, regardless of vehicle type. However, if you are driving a motorcycle, you will need to complete  motorcycle PDC specifically. Likewise, when you apply for additional restriction codes (RC), like if you are already driving an automatic sedan and you want to add a semi-truck (18-wheeler) or motorcycle RC code, then you will need to present the appropriate PDC completion certificate prior to the issuance of the additional RC.

4. How much does PDC cost in the Philippines?

Depending on the driving school and the course you are taking, the price for a PDC in the Philippines can range anywhere from ₱1,200 to ₱10,000. There are some free PDCs available, but you will need to be very vigilant in watching out for them as slots run out fast.

5. Do I need a PDC certificate when applying for a non-professional driver’s license (NPDL)?

Yes. One if the requirements for applying for NPDL is to have attended, completed, and passed the Practical Driving Course (PDC) from any LTO-accredited licensed driver, LTO Driver’s Education Center (DEC), LTO-accredited Driving School, or LTO-accredited TESDA Training Center (TTC).  

6. What do I need to do after completing the PDC?

After you take the PDC, you will need to take and pass the practical driving exam.

7. Are TDC and PDC certificates the same?

No. These are both required by the LTO, but these are two different types of certificates: One is for the 15-hour Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) and the other is for the 8-hour Practical Driving Course (PDC). Either type must be electronically transmitted to the LTO-IT System upon issuance.

Getting an LTO PDC certificate

Summary  

Getting your PDC certificate is as simple as enrolling in a driver training class and completing at least 8 hours of driving exercises. However, some people say that this driver’s license requirement from the LTO is anti-poor, thanks to the sky-high prices normally charged by private driving schools. Luckily, the government now offers free Practical Driving Courses (PDC) in LTO offices, LTO DECs, and even LTO-accredited TTC. 

LTO Car Renewal Registration Schedule

Motor vehicle (MV) registration is an important process in the Philippines. Making sure that your vehicle registration is up-to-date ensures that all vehicles comply with the law, helping vehicle owners avoid penalties, fines, and the inconvenience of a suspended registration. 

In an attempt to make the process easier, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has set a very specific schedule that vehicle owners must follow for renewing their registration. The LTO also allows vehicle owners to renew their registration as early as up to two months before it expires, giving them flexibility to ensure compliance without rushing. If you are a vehicle owner and you are unsure about when your vehicle renewal is due, the schedule is based on two key factors: the last digit and the middle digit of the vehicle’s plate number. Understanding this system will help you avoid missing your designated renewal period and incurring hefty fines in the process.

lto motor vehicle registration schedule

LTO Car Registration Renewal Schedule Explained

The LTO uses the last digit of your vehicle’s plate number to determine which month your registration will expire. Listed below is a detailed explanation of the LTO registration renewal schedule for car owners:

  • Plate numbers ending in 1 must renew by January.

  • Plate numbers ending in 2 must renew by February.

  • Plate numbers ending in 3 must renew by March.

  • Plate numbers ending in 4 must renew by April.

  • Plate numbers ending in 5 must renew by May.

  • Plate numbers ending in 6 must renew by June.

  • Plate numbers ending in 7 must renew by July.

  • Plate numbers ending in 8 must renew by August.

  • Plate numbers ending in 9 must renew by September.

  • Plate numbers ending in 0 must renew by October.

Once you know your registration month, the middle digit of your plate number will determine which week of the month you must have your vehicle inspected for registration. These guidelines ensure that not everyone flock to the LTO office to renew all at the same time, easing the process for both vehicle owners and LTO employees.

Weekly Schedule Based on the Middle Digit

The middle digit of your plate number tells you which week of your designated month you should schedule your renewal. Here’s how it works:

  • Middle digits 1, 2, and 3: You are scheduled for the 1st week of the month.

  • Middle digits 4, 5, and 6: You are scheduled for the 2nd week of the month.

  • Middle digits 7 and 8: You are scheduled for the 3rd week of the month.

  • Middle digits 9 and 0: You are scheduled for the 4th week of the month.

By following this schedule, you can avoid long queues and ensure your vehicle is renewed on time. Missing your renewal deadline can lead to late fees and even more severe penalties like the suspension of your vehicle’s registration, which can result in inconvenience and legal problems if caught driving without valid registration.

Early Renewal Option

To make the registration process more convenient, the LTO allows early renewal of your vehicle registration. You can renew up to two months before your registration expires. This is especially useful if you expect to be busy during your renewal month or if you want to avoid the stress of rushing at the last minute. Early renewal ensures that your vehicle remains compliant without any disruption in your driving routine.

Tips for a Smooth Renewal Process

To ensure that you won’t experience too much hassle when you renew your vehicle registration, here are some tips you might want to remember:

  • Check your plate number: Always know the last and middle digits of your plate number to stay aware of your registration deadline.

  • Prepare the necessary documents: Ensure you have all the required documents, including your current registration papers, official receipt, and emission test results.

  • Schedule early if possible: Take advantage of the two-month early renewal period to avoid rushing during the deadline period.

Importance of Following the Schedule

Renewing your vehicle registration on time not only keeps your vehicle compliant with the law, but also ensures your safety on the road. It is also important for the following reasons:

  • Failing to renew on time can result in hefty fines, penalties, or even impounding of your vehicle. 

  • The LTO registration schedule is designed to distribute the load of renewals throughout the year, making the process and queues more manageable for both vehicle owners and the LTO. 

  • Sticking to your schedule will save you from the hassle of dealing with late fees and suspended registration.

Video: Schedule of Motor Vehicle Renewal Registration

For a visual walkthrough on how to tell when your vehicle registration is up for renewal, you may check out this video from MamiZang Vlog:

Summary

The LTO vehicle registration renewal schedule is based on the last and middle digits of your plate number. This structured approach helps manage vehicle inspections and renewals more efficiently. Remember, renewing your registration up to two months in advance is allowed and is highly recommended to avoid last-minute stress. Following the schedule ensures you stay compliant with LTO regulations, preventing legal issues and penalties and keeping your vehicle roadworthy. Stay ahead of your registration dates and ensure your vehicle is always properly registered.

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