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An International Driving Permit (IDP) allows you to legally drive in foreign countries by translating your existing driver’s license into multiple languages. Foreign nationals in the Philippines can apply for an IDP to ensure hassle-free driving when traveling abroad. Understanding the application process and requirements can help you secure one more efficiently.

In this guide, you can learn more about everything you need to know about getting an IDP in the Philippines, including the benefits, procedures, fees, and additional information for dual citizens and permanent residents in the country.

What is an IDP (International Driving Permit) License?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) serves as an official translation of your Philippine driver’s license, making it easier for foreign authorities to recognize your driving qualifications. It translates your license information into ten different languages, ensuring smooth driving experiences in different countries.

Having an IDP along with your Philippine driver’s license (PDL) is not mandatory in all nations, but it can be highly beneficial in many places. After all, it also simplifies interactions with local traffic authorities and may be a requirement in some countries for legal driving.

Benefits 

Having an IDP comes with numerous benefits to the holder, including but not limited to:

• The ability to bridge language barriers when driving locally and internationally. 
• Traffic authorities can easily verify your driving credentials. 
• Seamless driving experience without legal complications.
• Offers added confidence and security while driving in any country where IDP is acceptable.

Requirements

Some of the requirements in applying for an IDP may vary depending if it is a new application or a renewal, and also upon the residence/citizenship status of the foreign national.

Here’s a complete list of requirements for your reference:

General Requirements

For New Applicants

• Original and photocopy of a valid Philippine driver’s license (must be valid for at least one year).
• Two pieces of 2″x2″ colored ID photos with a white background.
• Processing fee: Php 4,200.

For Renewal

• The same requirements as new applicants apply for IDP renewal.

Note: Both Paper-type/Original Receipt from LTO and card-type Driver’s Licenses are both accepted.

Additional Requirements for Special Cases

Dual Citizens

• Original passport and 
• Photocopies of passport pages showing your last arrival in the Philippines.

Permanent Residents

• Original passport and 
• Alien Certificate Registration (ACR).

Application via Representative

• A letter of authorization signed by the applicant and 
• Government-issued ID of the representative.

Note: In case the original driver’s license is unavailable, an LTO certification and the original Official Receipt must be provided.

Application Procedures

Online, via the AAP Website

Step 1. Visit the AAP Website

Go to the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) website (https://www.aap.org.ph/).

Step 2. Navigate to the Services Tab

Click on the menu, then choose the “Services” tab, and select “International Driving Permit.”

Step 3. Choose the Application Type

Depending on your preference, select from different PIDP packages (Annual, Two-Year, or Three-Year). Each package offers varying levels of emergency roadside assistance and insurance coverage. There’s also options that include AAP membership for those who are interested. 

Please see the list below for information on the different IDP and Membership Packages

• Annual (PIDP) – Php 4,200: Register up to 2 vehicles. Includes 4 emergency roadside assistance services or 100-km tow distance. Free P300,000 personal accident insurance.
• Two Years (PIDP) – Php 8,100: Register up to 2 vehicles. Includes 8 emergency roadside assistance services or 200-km tow distance. Free P300,000 personal accident insurance.
• Three Years (PIDP) – Php 9,200: Register up to 2 vehicles. Includes 12 emergency roadside assistance services or 300-km tow distance. Free P300,000 personal accident insurance.
• Annual Fee (Regular) – Php 2,500: Register up to 2 vehicles. Includes 4 emergency roadside assistance services or 100-km tow distance. Free P300,000 personal accident insurance.
• Three Year Fee (Regular) – Php 5,900: Register up to 2 vehicles. Includes 12 emergency roadside assistance services or 300-km tow distance. Free P300,000 personal accident insurance.
• Annual Fee (Associate) – Php 2,000: Register up to 1 vehicle. Includes 3 emergency roadside assistance services or 60-km tow distance. Free P200,000 personal accident insurance.
• Three Year Fee (Associate) – Php 4,500: Register up to 1 vehicle. Includes 9 emergency roadside assistance services or 180-km tow distance. Free P200,000 personal accident insurance.
• Annual Fee (Membership Lite) – Php 900: Register 1 vehicle. Includes 2 non-towing interventions (flat tire change, battery boosting, fuel provision, minor repairs). Free P200,000 personal accident insurance.
• Annual Fee (Elite) – Php 5,000: Register up to 5 vehicles. Includes 8 emergency roadside assistance services or 200-km tow distance. Free P300,000 personal accident insurance.
• Three Year Fee (Elite) – Php 10,000: Register up to 5 vehicles. Includes 24 emergency roadside assistance services or 600-km tow distance. Free P300,000 personal accident insurance.
• Annual Fee (Motorcycle Package 1) – Php 600: Register 1 motorcycle (200cc and below). Includes a free AAP-Caltex SavePlus Discount Card.

Note: Some of these options come with free emergency roadside and towing services can be availed of only after 7 days from the date of activation of membership.

Step 4. Fill Out the Application Form

Complete the form with personal details, license information, and vehicle data.

Step 5. Submit and Pay Online

After submitting, choose a payment method and pay the total amount. You will receive an email confirmation after successful payment.

Walk-in (to an AAP Branch or their partner agencies)

Step 1. Make a Personal Visit to the Office

Visit the AAP office or any of their partners or AAP-accredited travel agencies. 

Step 2. State your business

Let the staff know that you are coming in to apply for an IDP.

Step 3. Choose the Application Type: 

Depending on your preference, select from different PIDP packages (Annual, Two-Year, or Three-Year). Each package offers varying levels of emergency roadside assistance and insurance coverage.

Step 4. Fill Out the Application Form: 

Complete the form with personal details, license information, and vehicle data.

Step 5. Submit and Pay 

After submitting, choose a payment method and pay the total amount. 

Some of the available AAP payment options include:

• Online Payment
• Cash Payment
• Credit Card
• Banco De Oro (BDO)
• Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI)
• GCash
• Cebuana Lhuillier Branches Nationwide
• Check Payment
• Collector’s Pick-Up
• Paymaya
• Squidpay

Processing Time

The processing time for an IDP is relatively fast, but it is advisable to apply well before your travel date to avoid delays. Some countries may have specific requirements for driving permits, so it’s important to check with the embassy of your destination country.

Validity of the IDP

The IDP’s validity depends on the duration of your Philippine driver’s license. If your license is valid for more than a year, the IDP will be valid for one year from the date of issuance. However, if your license is valid for less than a year, the IDP will expire on the same date as your license. Renewing your IDP online is possible as long as your license remains valid.

Fees

The fees for the IDP may vary depending on the type and inclusions and if you wish to become an AAP member or not. Here are some options and their equivalent fees.

• Annual IDP: Php 4,200.
• Two-Year IDP: Php 8,100.
• Three-Year IDP: Php 9,200.

Where to Apply

Foreign nationals can apply for an IDP at the following locations:

1. Automobile Association Philippines (AAP)

The AAP has various branches nationwide where you can submit your application. These branches are located in cities like Makati, Cebu, Davao, and more. You can find a complete list of branches and contact details on the AAP website.

• List of AAP Branches
  • Head Office
  • Alabang
  • Robinsons Cebu
  • SM City Davao
  • Makati
  • Robinsons Starmills
  • Lipa Batangas
  • Ayala Fairview Terraces
  • Ayala Feliz
  • Ayala Marquee
  • Ayala Market Market
  • Robinsons La Union
  • Robinsons Manila
  • Southwoods
  • Ayala Abreeza
  • SM Calamba
  • SM Sta Rosa
  • Robinsons Dasmariñas
  • SM Baliwag
  • Ayala Manila Bay

2. AAP-Accredited Travel Agencies

The AAP also partnered with travel agencies for more convenient access to the IDP application in some parts of the country. Some of their partner agencies are as follows:

• LGCT Travel and Tours

Office Address: Unit #2 GF Hotel Rosemarie, 525 EDSA, Pasay City

Contact Number:(02) 8-785-1114 / (02) 8-775-3926 +63 917 319 1406 / +63 933 867 3046

carmentan.lgct@gmail.com

• Hello PH Travel Agency

Office Address: Unit 202 CRM N. Escario corner Molave Street, Kamputhaw, Cebu City

+63 945 299 1005 / +63 956 901 1003 / +63 999 157 7419 / +63 922 421 7576 (02) 233-4060

info@hello.ph

• DLS Travel and Tours

Office Address: Sandawa Road, Matina, Davao City

(082) 298-0021 / (082) 296-9583

dlstravelandtours@yahoo.com

• LHOYS Travel & Tours

Office Address: Main: Ground Flr., TLI Bldg., Kap. S. Luz St., Brgy. 4, Lipa City, Batangas

Branches: Level 2 Main Mall, Lipa Robinsons Place Lipa Fiesta World Mall, Marawoy

(043) 752-0609 / (043) 774-2382 +63 928 322 1987 / +63 956 726 5166

Where Can the PIDP be Used?

Here is the list of countries where the PIDP is accepted:

• Albania
• Algeria
• Andorra
• Argentina
• Australia
• Austria
• Bangladesh
• Belarus
• Belgium
• Bolivia
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Brazil **
• Bulgaria
• Canada **
• Chile
• Colombia
• Costa Rica **
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Dominican Republic
• Ecuador
• Egypt **
• El Salvador **
• Estonia
• Finland **
• France
• Georgia
• Germany
• Ghana
• Greece
• Hong Kong
• Hungary
• Iceland
• India
• Indonesia
• Iran
• Iraq
• Ireland
• Israel
• Italy
• Jamaica
• Japan
• Jordan
• Kenya
• Korea (South)
• Kuwait
• Latvia
• Lebanon
• Libya
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malaysia
• Malta
• Mauritius
• Mexico
• Moldova
• Montenegro
• Mozambique
• Namibia
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Nicaragua **
• Nigeria
• North Macedonia
• Norway
• Oman **
• Pakistan
• Paraguay
• Peru
• Poland **
• Portugal **
• Qatar **
• Romania **
• Russia
• Saudi Arabia
• Serbia
• Singapore
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• South Africa
• Spain
• Sri Lanka
• Sudan
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Syria
• Tanzania
• Thailand
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Tunisia
• Turkey
• Uganda
• Ukraine
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States of America
• Uruguay
• Venezuela
• Vietnam 
• Yemen 
• Zimbabwe

**Please note that limited validity restrictions apply to IDPs in these countries. Only (30 days, 90 days, 180 days, or as specified) even if the IDP is valid for longer. Validity restrictions also apply in Bahrain, Brunei, Gambia, Kiribati, Lesotho, Macao, Nepal, and Samoa.

Important Reminders

For your reference, here are some reminders regarding the application and use of IDP:

• While an IDP helps with driving abroad, it does not replace a driver’s license and/or a car insurance. 
• Make sure you also have temporary car insurance regardless of the country you plan to visit. 
• For use in countries other than the Philippines, always verify the driving requirements of your destination country, as some may need more documentation than just the IDP.

Video: How to Get an International Driving Permit from AAP in the Philippines

For a visul guide on how to get your IDP from AAP in Quezon City, please check out this video from Gentheexplorer:

Summary

Getting an International Driving Permit (IDP) in the Philippines is quite an easy process for foreign nationals. Whether you are a new applicant or renewing, having the right documents and following the proper procedures will make the process easy. With the IDP, you can drive confidently not only in the Philippines but also in numerous other countries while complying with local regulations. Just make sure to always check the requirements of your destination country first to ensure a smooth driving experience.

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has introduced a new Certificate of Registration (CR) format, replacing the decades-old design. This update is part of the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS), a digital initiative aimed at improving efficiency and transparency in vehicle registration. The new CR features an expanded size, additional vehicle information, and updated classifications to align with Philippine National Standards (PNS).

The LTO made these changes to enhance readability, prevent document loss, and integrate modern vehicle classifications. The new CR applies to vehicles registered from February 15, 2021, onward, while older registrations will continue using the previous format. Vehicle owners can access the LTMS portal to manage registrations, book appointments, and process payments online, simplifying LTO transactions. Learn more about this updated CR aligns while exploring the key changes on the CR, as well as the new features, and how they affect vehicle owners.

Why Did LTO Change the CR Format?

The revisions align with the LTMS, which aims to digitize and modernize LTO services. Through the LTMS, vehicle owners can register an account at portal.lto.gov.ph to:

• Submit applications online
• Book appointments for LTO services
• Pay for driver’s license transactions and vehicle registrations electronically

This shift to a more detailed and organized document also enhances compliance with new PNS classifications and licensing codes. Other reasons for this change include: 

• Improved Readability: The larger size and font make it easier to read, reducing errors in vehicle information.
• Standardization: Aligning with PNS and international vehicle classification standards.
• Better Security & Fraud Prevention: Clearer documentation reduces opportunities for tampering or misrepresentation.
• Integration with LTMS: The new format supports the shift to digital transactions, making LTO services more efficient.
• Reducing Duplicate Requests: The larger size makes it harder to misplace, minimizing requests for duplicate CRs.

Who Needs the New LTO CR?

The new format applies to vehicles registered after February 15, 2021. Owners of vehicles registered before this date will still use the old CR format, but it is advisable to carry a copy of the LTO memorandum in case of any discrepancies during vehicle inspections or roadside checks.

What’s Changed in the New LTO Certificate of Registration?

There are numerous changes that were applied when the LTO adopted a new look for its Certificate of Registration (CR). These changes may seem insignificant to you, but there actually are reasons why they were made in the first place.

• Larger Document Size: One of the most noticeable updates is the increased size of the CR. Previously a small, palm-sized yellow card, the new CR is now comparable to a full-sized document, similar to a Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) birth certificate. The LTO made this change to reduce the likelihood of misplacement and to make the details more legible by increasing the font size.
• Size and Color Increase: The old CR was a small, palm-sized yellow card, while the new CR is as large as a Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) birth certificate or a full-sized document with blue watermarks. This makes it more legible and less likely to be misplaced.
• Font Enhancement: The new CR has a larger font size, improving readability and reducing errors in vehicle identification.
• Document Layout: The updated version includes additional fields and restructured formatting to accommodate more vehicle details and align with modern registration standards.

Additional Vehicle Information

Aside from these physical changes, the new LTO CR also features an expanded size which allows for more details to be included, improving the comprehensiveness of the document. Notably, it also bow include more information such as:

• Vehicle classification (Private, For Hire, Government, or Exempt)
• Vehicle category based on Philippine National Standards (PNS), which includes classifications such as L1, L2, M1, N1, and others
• Vehicle color reinstated as a primary identifier
• Maximum power (kW) for electric vehicles
• Year model and year rebuilt (for imported used vehicles)
• Passenger capacity for public utility vehicles
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) replacing the body number
• Dedicated remarks section for additional vehicle-related information

Removed Information

To streamline the CR, some details previously included in the old LTO CR have been removed. These include the following: 

• Denomination replaced by Vehicle Type (Car, UV, SUV, Bus, Truck, Motorcycle/Tricycle, or Trailer)
• Body number removed since the CR already lists the engine and chassis numbers
• Shipping weight and net capacity omitted as the CR now includes only gross weight and net weight
• Number of cylinders deemed unnecessary by LTO

Actual LTO Certificate of Registration Sample

​Familiarizing yourself with the new LTO CR is important for vehicle owners in the Philippines. Understanding its updated format ensures that you are aware of the essential information it contains, which is crucial during transactions or inspections. To view and download a sample of the new LTO CR, you may visit and consult with personnel from nearby LTO offices. After all, being acquainted with the document’s appearance and details helps prevent potential issues during vehicle-related processes.

Here’s an actual sample of the new version of the LTO CR that you can check: 

Important Notes about the new LTO CR

When dealing with the new LTO CR, here are some important notes and reminders in mind:

• The new CR is larger than the previous version, making it easier to read and less likely to be misplaced.
• It includes additional details such as vehicle classification, category, and maximum power for electric vehicles.
• Some details like body number, shipping weight, and number of cylinders have been removed.
• Vehicle color is now included again for better identification.
• The document aligns with Philippine National Standards (PNS) classifications for power-driven vehicles.
• Only vehicles registered after February 15, 2021, will have the new CR format.
• Always keep a copy of your CR in your vehicle for verification and legal purposes.
• Always check for security features such as unique serial numbers and LTO watermarks.
• Authentic CRs are only issued by the LTO and its authorized branches—never purchase from third-party sellers.
• If in doubt, verify the document at the nearest LTO office or through the LTO online portal.

Video: New LTO CR, New Design

The updated LTO CR brings clarity, better organization, and increased security to vehicle documentation. With the integration of the LTMS, motorists can expect a more convenient way to handle their registration and licensing needs. If you haven’t registered your vehicle recently, the next time you do, you’ll receive this updated, more comprehensive CR. To learn more about what’s new in the latest LTO CR designs, you may check out this video from Jeff Ski:

For more information, you may also visit the official LTO website or the nearest LTO offices to check out the latest LTO memos regarding vehicle registration and licensing policies.