Handling pavement drop-off while driving is a critical skill for ensuring road safety. It requires skills and a calm mindset, as it is quite a dangerous situation that can lead to loss of control. When the wheel slips off the road and drops onto the lower shoulder, immediate and careful actions are necessary to avoid accidents.
Learning how to correctly handle your car when you mistakenly end up running off the pavement can make a significant difference in preventing crashes. One must know how to correct pavement drop-offs by slowing down gradually, steering carefully, and safely re-entering the pavement. Having said that, we created this guide to help you navigate such emergencies with confidence and safety.
Pavement drop-off refers to a situation where one or more of a vehicle’s wheels slip off the edge of the road onto a lower shoulder or roadside. It is a common driving hazard that can occur unexpectedly, especially on poorly maintained roads. It usually happens when the road surface is higher than the adjacent shoulder, creating a sudden drop.
When it happens, drivers often instinctively overcorrect by jerking the steering wheel back onto the pavement, which can lead to loss of control. Understanding the proper way to handle instances when at least one wheel slips off the road to the road shoulder or pavement is crucial for maintaining vehicle stability. It involves staying calm, gradually slowing down, and carefully steering back onto the road to avoid accidents.
Steps to Safely Manage a Pavement Drop-Off
Encountering a pavement drop-off can be a startling and potentially dangerous situation for any driver. Knowing the proper steps to safely manage this emergency can prevent accidents and ensure your safety. Here are the essential steps to handle a pavement drop-off effectively and calmly.
Step 1. Stay Calm and Avoid Sudden Movements
Don’t Panic: Keep your composure. Panic can lead to hasty decisions.
Avoid Braking Suddenly: Do not slam on the brakes. This can cause your vehicle to skid.
Step 2. Gradually Slow Down
Ease Off the Gas: Let your car slow down naturally by taking your foot off the accelerator.
Light Braking: If you must use the brakes, apply them gently to avoid skidding.
Step 3. Keep Steering Straight
Hold Steady: Maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel and keep your vehicle on a straight path.
Straddle the Edge: Position your car so that the off-road tires move away from the pavement edge, while the on-road tires are near the edge but not scrubbing it.
Step 4. Check for Traffic
Look Ahead: Keep your focus on the road ahead to avoid obstacles.
Find an Opening: Before attempting to get back on the road, ensure there is a gap in traffic.
Step 5. Re-enter the Road Safely
Steer Gradually: Turn the steering wheel slightly to re-enter the pavement at a shallow angle.
Straighten Up: As soon as the front wheels are back on the pavement, straighten the steering wheel to stabilize your vehicle.
Step 6. Stop and Call for Help If Necessary
Pull Over Safely: If you cannot safely re-enter the road, pull over as far as possible and call for assistance.
Seek Assistance: Contact emergency services or towing services for help if needed.
The Importance of Roadway Design
Roadway design also plays a crucial role in ensuring driver safety and preventing accidents. Properly designed roads with gradual transitions between the pavement and shoulder can significantly reduce the risk of such accidents, especially those caused by pavement drop-offs. These designs help maintain vehicle stability and provide drivers with better control when navigating potential hazards.
Inadequate roadway design, such as steep or uneven pavement edges, increases the likelihood of tire scrubbing and loss of control. Implementing features like the Safety Edge, which creates a 30-degree slope at the pavement edge, can mitigate these risks. Investing in safer road construction practices and regular maintenance is essential for reducing accidents and improving overall road safety. The Land Transportation Office (LTO) and other relevant agencies usually work towards improving road safety, but drivers must remain vigilant and prepared.
Safety Tips for Drivers Dealing with Pavement Drop-Offs
Encountering a pavement drop-off can be a nerve-wracking experience, but knowing how to handle it can prevent accidents and ensure your safety. Proper techniques and a calm approach are crucial when dealing with such situations. Here are some essential safety tips for drivers to manage pavement drop-offs effectively:
Stay Calm: Keep your composure to make clear, deliberate actions.
Avoid Sudden Movements: Do not jerk the steering wheel or slam on the brakes.
Slow Down Gradually: Ease off the gas pedal and slow down naturally without harsh braking.
Steer Straight: Maintain a straight course until you have slowed down sufficiently.
Check for Traffic: Ensure there is a safe gap in traffic before attempting to re-enter the road.
Re-enter at a Shallow Angle: Steer back onto the pavement gently at a slight angle to avoid sudden jolts.
Straighten the Wheel: Once back on the pavement, straighten the steering wheel to stabilize your vehicle.
Pull Over Safely: If re-entering the road is unsafe, pull over as far off the pavement as possible and seek assistance.
Keep a Firm Grip: Hold the steering wheel firmly to control any unexpected movements caused by the drop-off.
Stay Aware of Road Conditions: Always be mindful of the road edges, especially on poorly maintained roads or in bad weather.
Video: How to Correctly Recover When Your Vehicle Runs Off the Pavement?
Learning how to correctly recover when your vehicle runs off the pavement can be a safety resource for drivers. Visual demonstrations can also help reinforce the steps needed to safely navigate this common driving hazard. Here’s a video guide from Trubicars that walks you through the process to ensure you can handle pavement drop-offs with confidence and safety.
Summary
Handling a pavement drop-off requires calmness and precise actions. By following these steps, you can safely navigate back onto the road and avoid potential accidents. Always stay alert and prepared for such situations to ensure your safety and that of others on the road.
LTO-licensed drivers can update their driver’s license (DL) Restriction Code (RC) if they would like to operate a larger vehicle or more vehicle types. Especially with the rollout of the new vehicle and restriction code categories, it is necessary to be more specific with the restriction codes if you want to be able to operate specific types of motor vehicles on public roads.
Whether you have just learned how to operate a new type of motor vehicle (MV) or you simply forgot to declare the other restriction codes during your last driver’s license application, it is a good thing that it is now possible to add more restriction codes to your LTO driver’s license. There is a process, but if it means you can save more money on more fuel-efficient vehicles or you can earn better driving a bigger, better vehicle, then going through the process of adding more restriction codes to your driver’s license is worth the trouble.
LTO Restriction Codes refer to alphanumeric codes ranging from A to CE with each code corresponding to a specific type of vehicle the license holder is allowed to operate or the driving condition that the license holder is under.
These codes state the vehicle category and types that the DL holder may operate legally. This means that if the authorities catch you driving a type of vehicle that you’re not licensed to drive, you can face penalties and charges. For example, you’re prohibited from driving a bus if your driver’s license restriction code indicates you can only drive a motorcycle (DL RC A). Once caught driving a restricted vehicle, you will be required to pay a fine and there is a high possibility of you being unable to avail of the 10-year validity license and getting your vehicle impounded.
Driver’s License Restriction Codes
To learn more about these new restriction codes, here’s a list of all the nine DL codes together with their respective vehicle category codes.
1. DL Code A: Motorcycle
To drive any motorcycle model in the Philippines (e.g., Mio, Aerox, NMax, Smash, Barako, etc.), then you need a driver’s license with DL Restriction Code A. This DL code covers all types of transmissions (Automatic, Manual, and Semi-automatic).
License holders with DL Code A can also drive the following Vehicle Category Codes:
L1: Two-wheeled vehicle with a maximum design speed not exceeding 50 kph
L2: Three-wheeled vehicle with a maximum design speed not exceeding 50 kph
L3: Two-wheeled vehicle with a maximum design speed exceeding 50 kph
2. DL Code A1: Tricycle
This DL Restriction Code covers all three-wheeled motor vehicles (and motorcycles with sidecars), including transport tricycles and e-tricycles like Bajaj Re, Yamaha Tricity4, and tuk-tuk ( or bokyo). It also covers four-wheeled vehicles with limited unladen mass (i.e., weight when not carrying passengers or other items) and maximum design speed.
License holders with DL Code A1 can also drive the following Vehicle Category Codes:
L4: Motorcycle with sidecar with a maximum design speed not exceeding 50 kph
L5: Three-wheeled symmetrically arranged vehicles with a maximum design speed exceeding 50 kph
L6: Four-wheeled vehicles with unladen mass not more than 350 kg with a maximum design speed not exceeding 45 kph
L7: Four-wheeled vehicles with unladen mass not more than 550 kg with a maximum design speed not exceeding 45 kph
3. DL Code B: Passenger Car
This DL RC covers all car models with up to 8 seats and a mass not exceeding 5000 kg., like hatchbacks, coupes, sedans, and SUVs.
There’s only one Vehicle Category Code under DL Code B, M1.
M1: Vehicles with fewer than eight seats and Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) not exceeding 5000 kg.
4. DL Code B1: Passenger Van or Jeepney
This DL RC covers all passenger van models like Honda Odyssey, Toyota Hiace, Ford Transit, etc. and the popular mass transport jeepney model.
The Vehicle Category Code under B1 is M2.
M2: Passenger vehicles with more than eight seats and GVW of less than 5000 kg.
5. DL Code B2: Light Commercial Vehicle
This DL RC covers all cargo four-wheelers transporting goods and other items for business or commercial purposes. Some examples of vehicle models allowed under this restriction code include Suzuki Carry, Hyundai H100, Isuzu Travis, and Mitsubishi L300.
The Vehicle Category code under B2 is N1.
N1: This refers to vehicles used for the carriage of goods, with a maximum GVW of not more than 3500 kg.
6. DL Code C: Heavy Commercial Vehicle
Large trucks such as garbage, containers, and fire trucks belong to this DL RC.
There are two Vehicle Category codes under this DL Code: N2 and N3.
N2: This refers to vehicles used for the carriage of goods, with a GVW of between 3500 kg and 12000 kg.
N3: These are vehicles used for the carriage of goods, with maximum GVW beyond 12000 kg.
7. DL Code D: Passenger Bus
Bus drivers should have DL Code D on their licenses to operate any bus model in the Philippines.
There’s only one Vehicle Category code under DL RC D:
M3: This RC Code Vehicle Category refers to vehicles with more than eight seats and a maximum GVW of over 5000 kg.
8. DL Code BE: Light Articulated Vehicle
This DL RC is for light articulated vehicles that have permanent or semi-permanent pivot joints with lower GVW, like cars with trailers.
The Vehicle Categories under this DL Code are O1 and O2.
O1: Articulated vehicles with GVW less than 750 kg
O2: Articulated vehicles with GVW not exceeding 3500 kg
9. DL Code CE: Heavy Articulated Vehicle
Also created for vehicles with permanent or semi-permanent pivot joints, DL RC CE is a lot like DL RC BE, except that this has a higher GVW requirement.
The Vehicle Categories under this DL Code are O3 and O4.
O3: Refers to articulated vehicles with GVW beyond 3500 kg but less than 10000 kg
O4: This DL RC is for articulated vehicles with GVW exceeding 10000 kg.
Medical Conditions and Driving Indications
If an individual has any medical conditions that affect their ability to operate a motor vehicle, then additional restrictions shall be indicated in his license. There are five condition codes as follows:
1 – Drive only with corrective lenses
This indicates in the driver’s license that he/she is certified by an accredited physician to be out of the 20/40 vision and will not be allowed to drive without wearing eyeglasses or corrective lenses.
2 – Drive only with special equipment for upper limbs and/or lower limbs
This condition code indicated in the driver’s license says that the licensee has impairment at the upper limb and/or lower limb.
3 – Drive customized motor vehicles only
This condition code indicates that the licensee can only drive specially designed motor vehicles duly registered with the LTO.
4 – Drive only during daylight
This condition code indicated in the driver’s license of a licensee says that he/she is only allowed to drive during daylight. This includes being partially or totally blind in one eye.
5 – Drive only with hearing aid
This condition code indicates that a licensee has impaired hearing.
How to Add Restriction Codes to Your LTO Driver’s License
To help you add restriction codes to your driver’s license (DL), here are the qualifications, requirements, and a step-by-step guide on how to apply for additional restriction codes in the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
Eligibility
Anyone who is a holder of either a Non-Professional Driver’s License or a Professional Driver’s License and are qualified to apply for additional DL restriction codes. They must be:
both physically and mentally fit to drive a motor vehicle
For applicants with demerit points, the following period of prohibition for additional DL codes shall apply from the date of settlement of fines and penalties:
1 – 2 demerit points – 3 months
3 – 4 demerit points – 6 months
5 or more demerit points – 1 year
Additional Qualifications
For RC 1 / DL Codes A or A1, must be a holder of DL
For RC 2 or 4 / DL Codes B, B1 or B2, must be a holder of DL
For RC 3 or 5 / DL Codes C, must be a holder of PDL Code B2 (RC 2) for at least four (4) years
For RC 3 or 5 / DL Codes D, must be a holder of PDL Code B1 (RC 2) for at least four (4) years
For RC 6 or 7 / DL Codes BE, must be a holder of B, B1, or B2 (RC 2) for at least three (3) years
For RC 8 / DL Codes CE, must be holder of C or D (RC 3) for at least six (6) months
Requirements
Before seeking for additional DL RC, here is a list of documentary requirements that you need to prepare to save time and trouble.
Duly-accomplished application for Driver’s License (ADL) Form available at https://lto.gov.ph/lto-forms/file/1162-application-for-student-driver-s-permit-driver-s-license-conductor-s-license-apl.html
Original and one (1) photocopy of electronically transmitted medical certificate from an LTO-accredited medical clinic
Original and one (1) photocopy of any of the following:
PSA/NSO Certificate of Birth
Philippine Identification Card
Passport
Local Civil Registry (for areas where there is no PSA)
PSA Certificate of Marriage
Original and one (1) photocopy of any of the following valid ID with photo and signature of the applicant:
Philippine Identification (PhilID) Card
Philippine passport
Social Security System (SSS) Card
UMID Card
PhilHealth ID
TIN Card
Postal ID
Voter’s ID
Barangay ID
Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) ID
Senior Citizen ID
OFW ID
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) ID
National Council of Disabled Affairs (NCDA) ID
Solo Parent ID
Voter’s Certification
Government Services and Insurance System (GSIS) e-Card
Seaman’s Book
Government Owned and/or Controlled Corporations (GOCC) ID
Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF) or Pag-IBIG ID
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Certification
Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) ID
In addition, for foreigner, presentation Original and one (1) photocopy of passport with entry date of at least one (1) month and visa duration of six (6) months from date of application, or if born in the Philippines, presentation of the Original and one (1) photocopy of duly accomplished PSA birth certificate
Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN), if employed
Original and one (1) photocopy of Certificate of Completion of the 8-hour Practical Driving Course (Electronically transmitted to LTO by the accredited driving school / LTO DEC / LTO Accredited TESDA Training Center) to prove that you had some training with the type of vehicle you wish to add on your DL restriction codes
Electronically Transmitted Certificate of Completion of Driving Enhancement Program (DEP) if applying for the renewal of a Driver’s License with five (5) years validity for the first time
Presentation of the original Driver’s License, expired or otherwise
Drug test result
Procedures
Once you have everything prepared, you can proceed with the application for additional DL restriction codes by following these steps:
Step 2. On the appointment date, visit the LTO office you selected along with all the necessary documents for the application procedures.
Step 3. Secure a queue number from the service counter and wait for your turn.
Step 4. Once there, secure an application form from the concerned officer.
Step 5. Fill in all the necessary details in the application form as incomplete applications are not accepted
Step 6. Once called, submit all the required documents with the completed form to the concerned officer.
Step 7. Pay for the applicable fees at the cash counter and get the receipt for reference.
Step 8. Once paid, you will need to complete the practical test for the additional vehicle type equivalent to the additional restriction code you are applying for.
Step 9. You also need to complete a vision test.
Step 10. Once all the tests and verification process gets completed successfully, the applicant will get the new driver’s license with additional restriction codes from the office.
Fees
Depending on the type of driver’s license you already have and whether your DL is due for renewal or not, here are the associated fees you can expect to pay:
Valid Non-Professional/Professional:
Application Fee: 100.00
Computer Fee: 67.63
TOTAL: 167.63
Valid Non-Professional/Professional – Due for Renewal:
Application Fee: 100.00
Computer Fee: 67.63
TOTAL: 167.63
Valid Non-Professional/Professional:
Replacement Fee: 225.00
Additional Restriction Code: 100.00
Computer Fee: 67.63
TOTAL: 392.63
Valid Non-Professional/Professional – Due for Renewal:
Replacement Fee: (Renewal Prof.): 350.00
Additional Restriction Code: 100.00
Computer Fee: 67.63
TOTAL: 517.63
Processing Time
The entire procedure of applying for additional restriction codes can be completed within 30 days or as per the timeline advised by the respective department authority.
Video: How to Apply for Additional LTO Restriction Codes
Learn more about how to apply for additional restriction codes, along with the requirements, procedures, and fees to do so from this video poster by Wander J:
Important Reminders
For your reference, here are some tips you need to check out before going to LTO to apply for additional DL Restriction Codes:
Consider that your application process may take a whole day.
Make sure to bring all the documentary requirements needed.
Applicants who have been issued a DL card need to take fingerprints first before the issuance of a 5-year Driver’s License Card.
Drivers with Driving Restrictions for Conditional and Special Restricted Licenses cannot have more than two passengers under 21 in the car with him unless the applicant is with a licensed adult who is at least 21. The only exception is if he is transporting family members or students to and from school.
Make sure you have secured the certification, receipt, and application form from the driving school before going to the LTO office.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For your reference, here are some common questions and answers related to getting additional restriction codes in your driver’s license.
1. How much does the additional driver’s license restriction codes actually cost?
Not considering the other LTO fees that need to be paid, the fee for Additional Restriction Code amounts to Php 100.00.
2. Can I still drive without a 20/20 vision?
Yes, you can still drive even without a 20/20 vision. LTO will most likely add a Condition Code on your license which states the requirements and restrictions that the licensee should abide by.
3. How much is the fine for driving vehicles outside my restrictions?
The fine for driving vehicles outside your restrictions can go as high as Php 3,000.00.
4. Can I still add more restrictions on my driver’s license?
Yes. LTO allows drivers to continuously add more restrictions if they wish to do so. This will entail taking a written and practical exam depending on the restriction code they would like to add.
5. How many restriction codes does the LTO implement?
There are currently nine (9) driver’s license restriction codes that cover different vehicle types, size, gross weight, and transmission options. There are also five (5) condition codes for those with disabilities and medical conditions.
Summary
LTO-licensed drivers can still update their driver’s license (DL) Restriction Code (RC) in cases when they learned or would like to operate a larger vehicle or more vehicle types. With the rollout of the new vehicle and restriction code categories, there are more restriction codes, and these codes are not too difficult to add to your license if need be. However, it does take some work to do so, so this guide should be able to help guide you into getting additional restriction codes on your license. It isn’t free though, so it’s still best to make the addition only when you need to. After all,being caught driving a vehicle that is not authorized on your license may entail ever higher fees in addition to other penalties.
Contact Information
For more information, concerns, or inquiries, you may reach out to LTO via the following contact information:
Land Transportation Office (LTO)
LTMS portal: Visit the LTO’s official website and fill out their Contact Us form at https://portal.lto.gov.ph/ords/f?p=PUBLIC_PORTAL:CONTACT_US:115716301949471. Phone call: You may contact them at their telephone number (632) 922-9061 to 66. Email: You may also send them an email at clientcare@lto.gov.ph. LTO Text Hotline Service: You may use LTO’s nationwide SMS service for drivers and vehicle owners by typing LTOHELP and sending it to 2600 LTO office: For information, you may check any of the LTO branches closest to you.
A lost, stolen, or damaged driver’s license issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) is a motorist’s worst nightmare. Never mind being unable to drive or ride your motor vehicle (MV) or motorcycle (MC) until you get a replacement. The real horror is learning how to apply for a replacement or duplicate driver’s license with the LTO. It may seem daunting and inconvenient, especially when you do not know how to do it.
But, contrary to popular belief, it is actually a simple matter. All it takes is some money, a little bit of time, some knowledge, some documents, and a whole lot of patience. It may still seem inconvenient, but since the LTO driver’s license is quite important, you’d probably still take time out of your day to go to the LTO to get a duplicate LTO driver’s license. After all, being unable to drive to and from work or school is more inconvenient if you are used to having your own private vehicle. In this guide, you can learn more about duplicate licenses, including the requirements, fees, and the step-by-step procedures of replacing your lost, stolen, or damaged driver’s license.
A duplicate license from the LTO refers to the license reissued to replace a valid license that has been lost, stolen, or mutilated. Note that this is different from LTO driver’s license issued right before or after the expiration date which counts as a renewal instead. The license has to be valid before it can be considered as a replacement or categorized as a duplicate driver’s license. The same applies regardless of the type of license (non-professional or professional) as well as the restriction codes in it. Like the regular driver’s license from LTO, however, an official document issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) of the Philippines authorizes the license holder to operate a private motor vehicle.
Who needs an LTO Duplicate License
The LTO duplicate license is a neccesity if you are:
A Non-Professional driver who drives a light motor vehicle otherwise than as a paid employee
A Non-Professional driver who drives a light motor who drives a vehicle a vehicle other than a transport vehicle.
A Non-Professional Driver’s License holder is a holder of an official document issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) of the Philippines that authorizes the license holder to operate a private motor vehicle.
A person who has lost or damaged your valid LTO Driver’s License
A person who got his valid Driver’s License stolen
Who is Eligible for an LTO Duplicate License
The LTO allows the following to secure a replacement for valid driver’s license in cases of loss, damage, or theft:
Any Non-Professional Driver’s License holder who intends to replace a lost or stolen or damaged valid Non-Professional Driver’s License is eligible to make this application.
How much does a Replacement LTO Driver’s License Cost
A duplicate or a replacement driver’s license requires thepayment of the following fees before it can get relaced due to loss, damage, or theft:
Replacement Fee – P 225.00
Certification Fee – P 100.00
Clearance Fee – P 30.00
Duplicate Fee – P 50.00
The total amount you would need to pay may reach up to P 405.00, but do note that this price may change without notice. You may want to check with the specific LTO Branch you’re visiting if there are any other applicable fees that you’d need to pay.
How long is the Processing Time for Duplicate License in LTO
The entire process of getting a replacement for valid LTO Driver’s License in cases of loss, damage, or theft can be completed within 30 working days or as advised by the respective department authority.
How long is the Validity Period of the Duplicate License
To learn about the validity period of the replacement license, you would have to check the reissued driver’s license card to find the expiration date or the date until which the Driver’s License is valid.
What are the Requirements for Applying for a Replacement Driver’s License in LTO
Before you go to the nearest Land Transportation Office (LTO) branch to replace your lost or damaged license or secure a duplicate license, you will need to prepare the following:
Required Information
Full Name
Present Address
Nationality
Gender
Birth Date
Height
Weight
Blood Type
Telephone / Cell phone Number
Tax Identification Number (TIN)
Birth Place
Father and Mother’s Name
Spouse Name
Employers Business Name and Telephone Number
Employers Business Address
Required Documents
Duly accomplished Driver’s License Application for Permits and Licenses (APL) Form
Copy of Medical Certificate
Complaint Copy (if it is stolen)
Affidavit of Loss/Mutilation certified by an attorney-at-law and issued by a licensed Notary Public
Mutilated Driver License (in case of mutilation)
Submission of one (1) photocopy and presentation of your government-issued legal ID with photo and signature, which can be any of the following:
Social Security System (SSS) Card
UMID Card
PhilHealth ID
TIN Card
Postal ID
Voter’s ID
Fee receipt
Law Enforcement Clearance issued by the applicable LTO Regional Office (if the application is done outside of Metro Manila)
LTO Certification of License Records
LTO Duplicate and renewal Form (if the driver’s license is renewable) for driver’s license at the LTO
How to Replace Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Driver’s License in LTO
To get a replacement or duplicate Driver’s License in place of lost, stolen, or damaged Non-Professional Driver License from the LTO, you may check the step-by-step procedures listed below:
When Applying for a Replacement Driver’s License In Person
Step 1: Secure an application form from the LTO Central Office or from any concerned officer at the LTO office or download it from the LTO website.
Step 2: Fill in all the necessary details in the application form properly as incomplete applications won’t be accepted.
Step 3: Attach all the photocopies of the required documents that are mentioned in the “Required Documents” section above before submitting the application.
Step 4: Schedule an appointment for the Land Transportation Office Management System (LTMS) Portal online.
Step 5: On the day of you appointment, visit the LTO branch and submit all the documents with the completed form to the concerned officer.
Step 6: After receiving the application, the concerned authority will check the submitted application and document set. If all are in place, the application will be accepted.
Step 7: Pay for the corresponding fees at the cashier and wait for an acknowledgment receipt to be provided. Please save it for future reference.
Step 8: Once paid, the application will be processed further. All the updates on the application status will be sent via SMS to the applicant’s mobile number.
Step 9: Once the process gets completed, the applicant gets a call from the office regarding the application so he can come in for the required procedures like the vision test.
Step 10: Once completed with the vision tests, the applicant has to do the biometric procedure in the office.
Note: This entire process can be completed within 30 days or as advised by the respective department authority.
When Applying for a Replacement Driver’s License Online via the LTMS Portal
Step 1: To replace lost or stolen or damaged Non-Professional Driver License, the applicant has to make the application online by visiting the LTMS Portal.
Step 2: The applicant has to click the “Register Now” button.
Step 3: Read all the details carefully, enter the captcha, and then click the “Next” button.
Step 4: The applicant has to click the “Enroll as an Individual”.
Step 5: Enter all the nationality details and click the “Next” button.
Step 6: Once registered, the applicant has to login with the nominated email ID and password and then click the “Sign in” button on the official Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) Portal website.
Step 7: Click licensing.
Step 8: Click apply for a duplicate/replacement license.
Step 9: Enter in all the details in the application form.
Step 10: Upload a scanned copy of the affidavit of loss you previously acquired, along with the other required documents which are mentioned above.
Step 11: Once done, pay for the fees listed above in online mode by clicking “Payment confirm.”
Step 12: After entering all the details, the applicant has to click the “Submit” button.
Step 13: After receiving the application, the concerned authority will check the submitted application and document set. If the documents are authentic and complete, the application will be accepted.
Step 14: Once the application is accepted, it will be processed further and all the updates on the application status will be sent via SMS to the applicant’s mobile number.
Step 15: Once the process gets completed, the applicant gets a call from the office regarding the application.
Step 16: The applicant will then need to visit their LTO branch of choice ro complete the vision tests and biometrics procedures.
Note: This entire process can be completed within 5 – 7 days or as per the timeline advised by the respective department authority.
LTO Duplicate License: How to Process and How Much Does it Cost? (Video)
Learn about the complete procedures for processing an LTO replacement Driver’s License in cases of loss, damage, or theft from the YT channel of Chi Plays by watching the video below:
Important Reminders
If you are coming in to process a replacement or duplicate Driver’s License, then here ate some reminders for you:
You need to complete the application form before submitting it as incomplete applications will not be accepted or processed.
All applicants must provide genuine information while applying for this procedure.
The LTO Licensing Fees may vary depends on the expiry date & the date of application with LTO.
Once processed, the applicant has to personally get the replacement Non-Professional Driver’s License from the LTO office.
The process for replacement of Non-Professional and Professional Driver’s License is the same though there might be more requirements when processing a duplicate Professional Driver’s License due to the higher number of vehicle types that they can drive.
If you have to update the information on your license, you will have to pay an additional 100-peso fee.
If your license is due for renewal, you need to submit a medical examination certificate which is electronically transmitted.
If it has been years since you lost your license, you might opt to apply for a license renewal instead.
If your license is delinquent—meaning, you have one or more serious traffic violations—you will be required to undergo additional examinations.
You no longer need to have your ID picture taken or to provide your signature as the LTO should already have this on file.
If you’ve done all of these, you can now get your license within the day if you’re lucky. In some cases, however, the LTO office will ask you to pick up your license on another day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For your reference, here are some common questions and answers regarding duplicate driver’s licenses from the LTO:
1. Do I need to renew my driver’s license before applying for a duplicate license if the lost or damaged license has expired?
If the lost or damaged license has expired, you may simply apply for a renewal though you would still need the documentary requirements for lost or damaged license to prove that you did have a driver’s license before.
2. Do I need to submit a Medical Certificate when getting a duplicate driver’s license from LTO?
If the lost or damagedlicense is due for renewal, then yes, you will need to submit and go through the same driver’s license renewal procedures as usual.
3. Can I get a duplicate license even if I have pending traffic violations/demerits?
Yes. However, if your license is delinquent or you have one or more serious traffic violations, you might be required to undergo additional examinations.
Summary
As you can see, the procedures for acquiring a duplicate driver’s license isn’t really that difficult. The entire process also doesn’t cost that much. It’ll also only take anywhere between 30 minutes to several hours depending on how busy your preferred LTO branch is, so you’d want to come in at your preferred LTO branch as early as possible to avoid the long queues altogether. Or, you can always be extra careful with your driver’s license so you wouldn’t need to go through any of this at all. In any case, you can always do it online by visiting the LTMS online portal or reaching out to any of the LTO Offices in the Philippines.
