Tips

How to Dispute / Contest Traffic Violation Online in LTO

In the Philippines, it is possible to dispute or contest LTO traffic violations if you believe that you have been unjustly issued a traffic ticket by traffic officers during apprehensions. It takes some work, but knowing that it is your right to contest issued violations helps maintain the balance between what’s fair and what’s not when it comes to the enforcement of the rules of the road. 

As the main authority on the roads and its safety, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) strictly implements and enforces the laws regarding land transportation. It apprehends traffic violators and issues traffic tickets or Temporary Operator’s Permit (TOP), depending on the nature of the violation. It is also where traffic violations are contested, though there’s always a more convenient online option available.

Table of Contents

how to contest lto traffic violation

What is a Contested Case

A contested case is a case where the apprehended operator/driver who got issued a traffic ticket for certain violations makes his intention to oppose the violations indicated in the TOP known. It should be immediately acted upon with dispatch by preparing the summons both for the apprehending officer and respondent or apprehended driver. When an apprehension or traffic violation is contested, both the apprehending officer as well as the apprehended driver are required to present proof for clarification of the violation and to see if it does indeed warrant a dismissal or if the violation cited in the TOP is justified.

When a traffic violation is contested or disputed, the apprehending officer is required to show his proof of service, usually in the form of a mission order—a document containing information like the officer’s area of responsibility, official function, and duty schedule. Depending on the result of the re-evaluation of the case in the form of a hearing, all the traffic violations listed in the TOP and in the LTO-IT system known as the Land Transport Management System (LTMS) portal may be dropped or dismissed provided that the apprehended driver or operator can present sufficient proof in the form of documentary evidence to warrant its dismissal or if the violations cited in the TOP are interrelated or common.

Who Can Dispute or Contest Traffic Violations Online

Any licensed driver, car owner, or operator in the Philippines who has been apprehended for traffic violations and who thinks he has been unjustly accused may opt to dispute or contest the traffic violations ticket or the TOP issued to him. It isn’t an uncommon practice, especially for those who wish to settle their violations as a requirement for an LTO transaction or for a Certificate of No Pending Apprehension or Alarm from the LTO.

  • Apprehended drivers 
  • Registered owner 
  • Registered operators 
  • Registered conductors

What are the Requirements for Contesting Traffic Violations 

You will need the following if you intend to dispute your traffic violations

General Requirements

  • Pink copy of the Temporary Operator’s Permit (TOP) or Affidavit of Loss, in case of lost TOP
  • Written Protest or Affidavit of denial/ Motion for reconsideration/ Letter of appeal

Additional Requirements

If Confiscated Driver’s License/License Plate

  • One (1) photocopy of Official Receipt (OR) /Certificate of Registration (if applicable)
  • Franchise verification (for franchise related violation)
  • Certificate of Emission Compliance (for smoke belching violation)
  • Motor Vehicle Inspection System (MVIS) Inspection Report with Official
  • Receipt (for violations requiring inspection such as unauthorized/defective
  • accessories, unauthorized modification and the like)

If Motor Vehicle is Impounded

  • Impounding Receipt of Motor Vehicle (IRMV) with stencils of motor and chassis numbers 
  • Photocopy of Official Receipt (OR) /Certificate of Registration (CR) (if applicable)
  • Franchise verification (for franchise related violation)
  • Certificate of Emission Compliance (for anti- smoke belching violation)
  • Motor Vehicle Inspection System (MVIS) Inspection Report with Official Receipt (for violations requiring inspection such as unauthorized/defective accessories, unauthorized modification and the like)

How to Dispute/Contest Traffic Violations

Inherent with its mandate to enforce traffic rules and regulations, one of the LTO functions is to adjudicate contested and admitted apprehensions including cases under appeal/motion for reconsideration.

To contest apprehensions, here are the steps to follow:

In Person—Contested Cases (Law Enforcement Traffic Adjudication Services (LETAS) and Regional Offices)

  • Submit a written protest and present the TOP / IRMV within five (5) days from the date of apprehension.
  • Once received, wait until the agency checks and forwards the written protest, along with the supporting documents to the Regional Office and assigns the case to a Hearing Officer.
  • Submit all affidavits, pleadings, and other pertinent documents and wait for the Summons/Notice of Hearing (if necessary).
  • Submit a Position paper.
  • Attend the scheduled Hearing (if there’s one) and wait for the Resolution/ Decision on the case.
  • Proceed to the Cashier for payment – for Affirmed Cases.
  • Proceeds to the Releasing Unit and wait for the confiscated item or impounded Motor Vehicle to be released.

In Person—Contested Cases (District Office)

  • Submit a written protest and present the TOP/IRMV within five (5) days from the date of apprehension.
  • Wait while the LTO officer receives, checks, and dockets the required documents to be forwarded to the Regional Office.
  • Wait for the agency to assign the case to a Hearing Officer.
  • Once a Hearing Officer is assigned, submit all the relevant affidavits, pleadings, and other pertinent documents and wait for the Summons/Notice of Hearing to be issued (when necessary).
  • Wait for the scheduled clarificatory hearing (if there’s one).
  • Once the hearings are over, wait for the Resolution/Decision to determine proper imposition of fines and/or penalties.
  • Proceed to the District Office upon receipt of the Resolution.
    • If the case is affirmed, proceed to the cashier.
    • If dismissed, proceed to the Releasing Unit.
  • Proceed to the cashier for payment of fines – For AFFIRMED cases and get the Official Receipt (OR).
  • Once paid, proceed to the Releasing Unit – For AFFIRMED and DISMISSED cases and wait for the confiscated item/s impounded MV to be released (if applicable)

Online

Note that at this time, while LTO violations can be checked and settled online, there is no available platform to contest it online. You may, however, file complaints online via the new LTO App, ‘Isumbong mo kay Chief.’

However, MMDA citations and traffic apprehensions may be contested online. Those who wish to contest citation tickets issued by MMDA online may use this form (https://bit.ly/3J62YhH).

LTO Fees 

Naturally, LTO services are not free. When contesting LTO apprehensions, here are the things you will need to pay for 

  • Legal Research Fee – P 10.00 
  • Computer Fee – P 67.63
  • Other Fines, including Fines for Apprehension and other traffic violations 

Where to Contest and settle LTO Apprehensions

Not all apprehended drivers are allowed to settle their cases in any LTO Regional/District Office. Likewise, they are also not allowed to contest their apprehensions just anywhere. If the apprehension happened within Metro Manila, the apprehended driver needs to go to the LTO Law Enforcement and Traffic Adjudication Service (LETAS), Central Office, East Avenue, Quezon City to settle or contest the case, or at any concerned LTO Operations Division as specified in the TOP.

Important Tips and Reminders

For your reference, here are some important tips and reminders worth taking note of.  

  • An apprehended driver may protest the violations specified in the TOP and this is known as a contested case. 
  • Violation/s listed in the TOP and/or encoded in the LTO-IT system shall be dropped/dismissed provided that the apprehended driver/operator presents sufficient documentary evidence to warrant its dismissal and/or if the violations cited in the TOP are interrelated or common.
  • Make sure that you have a photocopy of your vehicle’s OR/CR at the ready along with the official receipt from the cashier if any payments were needed for your case. 
  • Make sure that you also have a copy of the resolution/ decision of your case as well at the ready. 
  • Make sure to file the contest letter within fifteen (15) days after your apprehension, provided the apprehension is reported and encoded in the LTO-IT system.
  • Failure to settle apprehensions within 15 days from the date of apprehension, may cause the suspension/revocation of the LTO driver’s license.
  • The place of settlement of apprehension is indicated in the TOP (middle portion). 
  • Not all apprehended drivers are allowed to settle their cases in any LTO Regional/District Office. 
  • If the apprehension happened within Metro Manila, the apprehended driver needs to go to the LTO Law Enforcement and Traffic Adjudication Service (LETAS), Central Office, East Avenue, Quezon City to settle the case, or at any concerned LTO Operations Division as specified in the TOP.
  • Only Land Transportation Office (LTO) officers and their deputized agents may confiscate your licenses pursuant to Republic Act (RA) 4136, or our Land Transportation and Traffic Code.
  • The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) traffic enforcers cannot confiscate your licenses if they are not authorized by the LTO or any local government unit.
  • Those who wish to contest citation tickets issued by MMDA may use this form (https://bit.ly/3J62YhH).
  • Only citations issued by virtue of physical apprehensions can be contested. Protests regarding NCAP citations shall not be entertained for online filing at this time.
  • You can only contest a maximum of five (5) UOVR tickets per complaint form. 
  • Prepare the following documents for upload:
    • Driver’s License
    • UOVR Ticket
    • LTO Certificate of Registration (CR)
    • Latest LTO Official Receipt (OR)
    • Other pertinent documents  
  • For other complaints, the LTO launched an online, QR-coded feedback system in the form of a platform called ‘Isumbong mo kay Chief.’
  • You may also use the CitiSend app or manually file complaints via the LTO Public Assistance and Complaints Desk.

Video: Contesting Traffic Violations in LTO

Learn how to contest LTO violations by watching this video from Ubecrida:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To learn more about contesting an LTO traffic apprehensions, here are some common questions and answers about it.

1. What type of violations may lead to confiscation of a driver’s license?

Traffic enforcers, including MMDA enforcers, may confiscate licenses in the following exceptional situations: 

  • The driver was involved in a traffic accident; 
  • The driver has accumulated three or more unsettled violations; or 
  • The driver has been apprehended for the following violations, among others:
    • allowing another person to use driver’s license; 
    • broken taxi meter seal; 
    • driving against traffic; 
    • driving under the influence of liquor or prohibited drugs; 
    • fake or no valid driver’s license; 
    • illegal or unauthorized counter-flow; 
    • illegal transfer of plates/tags/stickers;
    • overspeeding; and 
    • reckless driving

2. What is TOP?

TOP means Temporary Operator’s Permit. This is a document issued upon apprehension when a driver’s license is confiscated, pursuant to Memorandum Circular No. 515-2004 dated 25 May 2004. According to the implementing rules and regulations of the memorandum, the TOP shall be used in apprehension of all violations and it is strictly required to be issued to the apprehended driver/operator at the site and time of apprehension. It is only valid for 72 hours or three (3) days after apprehension.

3. What is an IRMV?

The IRMV refers to the Impounding Receipt of a Motor Vehicle. It is issued if the motor vehicle was impounded. The IRMV is accomplished by the apprehending officer and is validated by the Motor Vehicle Custodian (MVC) assigned at the impounding area.

4. Can TOP be extended after 72 hours or 3 days after its validity?

No. There is no extension of TOP after 72 hours or 3 days.

5. What will happen if the apprehended operator/driver failed to settle his case within 15 days from the date of apprehension?

If the apprehended driver/operator failed to settle his case within 15 days from the date of apprehension, it will cause the suspension/revocation of his driver’s license.

6. What if I have to settle multiple violations?

If you have incurred and are in need to settle more than three violations, then you will need to visit the MMDA’s Traffic Management Division located along EDSA corner Orense Street in Guadalupe, Makati City to settle your violations and pay for your fines.

7. Can I settle my LTO fines via the LTMS portal? 

Yes. The LTMS portal keeps track of how many demerit points or violations you have incurred as well as the unsettled payments and the history of violations/demerits of the license holder. In one of its most recent updates, the LTO has made it so motorists can settle pending violations online, effectively doing away with the need to visit an LTO office to pay fines.

8. What payment channels can I use to settle the fines imposed for my LTO violations?

To settle fines incurred due to LTO violations online, you have the option to pay online as well, via any of the following channels:

  • Land Bank Link Biz Portal
  • Bayad Center
  • PayMaya
  • GCash
  • Grabpay
  • SM Bills Payment
  • MMDA Traffic Management Division

9. Can the confiscated items such as the driver’s license and/or motor vehicle plates be immediately released to the apprehended operator/driver after the payment  of the fines/penalties or resolution of the contested case?

Yes. All the confiscated items may be immediately released after the payment of the corresponding fines/penalties provided that there are no accessory penalty/s and/or suspension indicated in the Resolution and/or Judgment. 

10. Can the impounded motor vehicle be immediately released by the apprehended operator/driver after the payment of the fines/penalties or resolution of the contested case?

Yes. The impounded motor vehicle may be released after the payment of the corresponding fines/penalties provided that there are no accessory penalty/s and/or suspension stipulated in the Resolution and/or Judgment.

Summary

With the digitization of many Philippine government services, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has adapted by creating the Land Transport Management System (LTMS) portal online, as well as the new online complaint platform, ‘Isumbong mo kay Chief.’ These platforms allow people to track their records and receive LTO services more conveniently, doing away with the need to undergo the tedious process of queuing at the LTO Office.

The same is true for when an apprehended driver or operator needs to check their LTO violations and settle their fines. While it has become more convenient in the advent of online LTO services via the LTMS portal online, it is still best to avoid incurring violations and to follow the law. Not only is it safer, cheaper, and more convenient, but it will also give you the chance to renew your driver’s license to the new version, with a 10-year validity period and save you more trips to the LTO office. 

After all, the LTO violations and its corresponding fines and how to contest them if you are unjustly apprehended are only some of the most important things you need to be wary of when setting out on the road. You can avoid being tricked by learning more about these things and more through this guide on contesting LTO violations and how to deal with them, if, and when you actually have an LTO violation to contest.

Contact Information

For questions or other concerns regarding how to contest LTO apprehensions online, you may opt to reach out to:

Land Transportation Office (LTO)

Office Address: LTO Compound, East Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City, 1100 Philippines
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) 8922-9061 to 66.
Email: You may also send them an email at clientcare@lto.gov.ph or ltomailbox@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 the LTO branch offices closest to you.

How to Change Body Design of Motor Vehicle in LTO

Changing the body design of a motor vehicle is yet another one of the many types of car modifications allowed by the Land Transportation Office (LTO). Not many people want to do it, but it isn’t an unusual thing to do at all. Some who do it do so to improve the vehicle’s performance while others do so to showcase their individuality through a unique car or to improve their car for just plain old fun. Whatever the reason, know that there are certain standards and parameters regarding changing vehicle body design and these are all implemented by the LTO in the interest of road safety, and environmental protection, among others. 

The LTO standards for changing the body design of the motor vehicle are lifted off of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UN-ECE) standard for motor vehicles—a standard adopted by many countries in the ASEAN region, including the Philippines who used it as the concrete basis for the guidelines to car modification in the country. To learn more about the standards, requirements and procedures in changing the body design of your motor vehicle safely at the LTO, we created this simple, easy-to-follow guide for you. 

change body design of vehicle in lto

LTO Vehicle Modifications: Change Body Design

There are different types of car or vehicle modifications. However, for our purposes, we are only discussing the changes in body design for private and for-hire motor vehicles in the country. Just like other types of changes in motor vehicles though, any change in the body design of a motor vehicle inherently changes the factory original look and exchanges it for a unique-looking customized car tailor-made to your needs and preferences.

Changing the body design of your vehicle refers to changes of designs on parts meant to protect the driver, passengers, and other road users. Changing the body design usually refers to changes in these parts that are mostly attached to the metal shell (unibody) and usually include changing or replacing shock-absorbing components, radiator grilles, vehicle’s roof, hood, fenders, trunk lid, doors, and windows.

Benefits of Changing the Body Design of a Motor Vehicle

Being able to change your vehicle’s body design at will means enjoying the following benefits: 

  • You may convert your vehicle into one that suits your needs and preferences 

  • A change in vehicle body design may also be a form of expression or a showcase of personality.

  • Depending on the type of change you wish to make on the car body design, you may be able to enjoy better car performance.

  • You may be able to get a safer car, provided that the body design change is made for your convenience.

  • It gives you freedom to decide what you want your car to look like.

Eligibility to Change the Body Design of a Motor Vehicle

Just like when changing the body, changing the body design of a motor vehicle is allowed to anyone who owns a registered motor vehicle and who intends to change his vehicle body design for whatever reason. These changes are allowed to the same group of people, provided that they can present all the requirements and pay all the relevant LTO fees.

Requirements for Changing the Body Design of a Motor Vehicle

Car modifications resulting in changes in the car body design requires re-registration at the LTO to inform the relevant authorities of the changes. Like when you are applying to change the body of your motor vehicle, along with the steps, procedure requires the following list of documents from the applicants.

General Requirements

The basic requirements include the following:

Additional Requirements

The need for additional documents may vary depending on the type of change the car owner wishes to apply for. For changes in the car body design, here’s a list of the additional requirements 

  • LTFRB electronic confirmation (For Hire)

  • Original Joint Affidavit of Change Body indicating source of body

  • Original Certificate of Registration (CR) and latest original Official Receipt (OR) of payment

  • Original copy of Sales Invoice of Body

  • Affidavit of Change of Body  Design

  • Clearance from Philippine National Police-Traffic Management Group (PNP-TMG)

  • Endorsement from the Insurance Company

  • Actual inspection of MV with duly accomplished Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR)

  • Confirmation of Dealer’s Report from Registration Section / Regional Office

  • Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN)

How to File Application for Change Body Design of Motor Vehicles

Changing your vehicle body design is a simple LTO process. Like other LTO transactions, it does require submission of a certain set of documentary requirements.  Plus depending on the type of change you wish to make, but the procedures for doing so remain the same.

To apply for a change in body design for your vehicle, you may follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit any of the LTO Office closest to you. 

Step 2: Secure a queue number at the LTO officer-in-charge and wait for your turn.

Step 3: Once your number is called, proceed to the transaction counters. 

Step 4: Submit all the required documents to the Evaluator for evaluation and computation of fees.

Step 5: Once the evaluation is completed, get the actual inspection of motor vehicles with duly accomplished Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR) done.

Step 6: Once the MVIR is ready, proceed to the queue for the cashier window and wait for your turn.

Step 7: Once your name is called, pay for the necessary fees and secure an Official Receipt (OR).

Step 8: Once done, proceed to the Releasing Counter.

Step 9: Present the OR to get the new Certificate of Registration (CR), plates, stickers, and other requested documents.

Step 10: Once you have received the CR and other relevant documents, signs in the CR log book.

Where to File Application for Change in Vehicle Body Design

Filing for a change in the body design of your motor vehicle can be done in any LTO Office, district or extension offices, whichever is more convenient.

Fees for LTO Change Body Design Transactions

The change in body designvçç of motor vehicles will require applicants to pay a total of one hundred pesos (P100.00) in addition to the other regular charges.

Important Reminders

For your reference, here are some things you need to remember when applying for a change in vehicle body:

  • Note that all types of changes are subject to inspection as it needs to be checked for safety.

  • That said, the procedure always comes with other fees. 

  • Changing the body of a motor vehicle is an optional procedure. 

  • It can be done at any of the LTO offices in the Philippines.

Video: Guide on the Requirements for Changing Vehicle Body Design in LTO

You can learn more about the procedures on how to change vehicle body design in LTO by watching this video from MamiZang Vlog.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To help make your application for change in vehicle body design as painless as possible, we rounded up the most common questions and answers related to it.

1. Can I make more than one type of change to my car? 

Yes. It is possible to make several changes at once but you will have to declare the change with LTO by filing for application to change whatever you wish to change, be it the body, body design, color, or engine/chassis. 

2. Can I apply for the change in car body from any LTO branch office?

Yes. You may file the change body design application at any LTO branch, provided that they offer the service. 

3. Is there a difference when filing for applications for change of body designs between private and for hire vehicles?

Yes. Though the procedures may be similar, there are differences in documentary requirements so make sure you pay attention to it depending on your vehicle classification.

Summary

Changing the vehicle body design is a lot like changing the car body. It may not seem all that important to many people, but for those who value individuality and personal expression, being able to express their individuality through their car is an important procedure. Getting the LTO to check on the modified vehicle ensures that the car stays safe and roadworthy despite the changes and that the LTO is informed that the car has been changed. It’s a simple and straightforward transaction, too, so there’s really no reason to shy away from making changes to your car body design or to not declare making such changes in your motor vehicle. After all, it might even save your life when they find any problems with the modifications.

How to Change Driver’s License Classification from Professional to Non-Professional Driver’s License

An LTO driver’s license (DL) is a government-issued identification document granted by the Land Transportation Office (LTO). Depending on whether you have a Non-Professional (NPDL) or Professional Driver’s License (PDL), a DL holder may have the privilege, both the capability and permission to drive and operate private or public motor vehicles in the Philippines. Both also serve as a valid ID that can be used for various government and private transactions. 

There really isn’t much of a difference between a Non-Professional (NPDL) and a Professional Driver’s License (PDL) except that the latter is allowed to earn money from driving. However, if you do not need a driver’s license for work, you may opt to downgrade your driver’s license and change it from Professional Driver’s License (PDL) to a Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL) to save yourself the trouble of going through a more rigorous test. 

change classification of drivers license from pro to non pro

Professional vs. Non-Professional Driver’s License

A Professional Driver’s License (PDL) and a Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL) are two different kinds of licenses issued by the LTO in the Philippines. Both give the holder the authority to drive motor vehicles on public roads. 

The two licenses are also different in the sense that you will need to have your Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL) for at least twelve (12) months before you can upgrade to a Professional Driver’s License (PDL). While holding a Professional License, you are also allowed to operate motor vehicles for a living, whereas a Non-Professional License holder is a step above a Student Permit holder and can only operate private vehicles on his own for personal use. 

Changing Driver’s License Classification from Professional Driver’s License to Non-Professional Driver’s License

The LTO also allows license holders to change their license classifications from Non-Professional to Professional and vice versa. In this article, we are only talking about changing DL classifications from the Professional Driver’s License to Non-Professional Driver’s License. 

Qualifications

To request for a change in driver’s license classification from professional to non-professional, you must satisfy the following conditions:

  • Must be a holder of Professional Driver’s License

Requirements

Before applying for a change in classification of your driver’s license from professional to non-professional, you need the following documentary requirements:

  • Duly accomplished Application Form for Driver’s License (ADL)

  • Presentation of copy of the medical certificate. (Electronically transmitted to LTO by an LTO-accredited medical clinic)

  • Presentation of original PDL

How to Convert DL from Professional Driver’s License (PDL) to Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL)

Step 1: Visit the preferred LTO branch, be it a Licensing Center, Licensing Extension Office, Authorized LTO District Office, or LTO Extension Office, closest to the applicant’s place.

Step 2: Check if they process DL classification changes and if they require an appointment or accept walk-in applicants.

  • If they require an appointment, book an appointment online with LTO ahead of your visit. 

Step 3: Secure a queue number and wait for your turn.

Step 4: Submit the duly accomplished ADL form along with all the requirements and the queue number.

Step 5: Wait for your queue number to be called.

Step 6: Once your name is called, submit the requirements so it can be evaluated for completeness and authenticity.

Step 7: Once the LTO personnel confirms the details from the system, wait for a transaction ID to be generated.

Step 8: Once the transaction ID is generated, proceeds to the cashier for payment of fees.

Step 9: After making the payments, proceed to the encoding / biometric window and complete the form for encoding of complete details in the new LTO-IT system.

Step 10: Wait for a printed copy of the screenshot of the Driver’s License (DL) details from the LTO IT system.

Step 11: After the details are encoded, proceed to the capturing of photo, fingerprints, and signature. 

Step 12: Wait for the DL card to be printed. You will be issued a claim stub and informed by the LTO officer when you can come back to collect your OR (Official Receipt) and your driver’s license.

Step 13: When you return to collect your drivers’ license (DL), once the OR and DL Card is released, you will be asked to sign in the log sheet.

How to Process a DL Classification Change from PDL to NPDL with Additional Restriction Codes (ARC)

Step 1. Visit any LTO office, be it a Licensing Center, Licensing Extension Office, Authorized LTO District Office, or LTO Extension Office near you.

Step 2. Check if they process DL classification changes and if they require an appointment or accept walk-in applicants.

  • If they require an appointment, book an appointment online with LTO ahead of your visit. 

Note: The LTO recently rolled out an online website portal called the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) which you can use to set up an appointment and transact with LTO. But not all LTO offices in the country are connected to the system just yet. Some offices still accept walk-in applicants so it is very important that you check first before you go.

Step 3. At the LTO office, ask where you can get an Application for Driver’s License (ADL) form. 

Note: To help save you some time, you may also check the LTO website’s LTO Forms section to download the Application for Driver’s License (ADL) form. 

Step 4. Once you have completely accomplished the form, get a queue ticket from the service counter and wait for your number to be called.

Step 5. Submit your completed ADL form and all the requirements, including your queue number.

Step 6. The LTO evaluator will check on the completeness and authenticity of your submissions. 

Step 7. Once everything is confirmed, you will be asked to proceed to the Cashier to pay the application fee.

Step 8. Once paid, you will need to take and pass the LTO exams.

Step 9. Take the written examination:

  • FAILED: If you fail the written examination, you will receive a computer generated letter with this message, “May come back the following day at their convenience.” That’s the end of your transaction.

  • PASSED: If you pass, you will proceed with the practical driving test.

Step 10. Take the actual driving examination.

  • FAILED: If you fail the practical driving test, that’s the end of your transaction.

  • PASSED: Proceed to the Cashier to pay for your license.

Step 11. Once you pass the LTO exams, proceed to the encoding / biometric window and complete the form for encoding your new details into the LTO-IT system.

Step 12. You will be issued a claim stub and informed by the LTO officer when you can come back to collect your OR (Official Receipt) and your driver’s license.

Step 13. When you return to collect your drivers’ license (DL), you will be asked to sign in the log sheet before your license is released to you.

Fees

Like every other LTO transaction, changing the DL classification from professional to non-professional comes with a price. Depending on whether the license is expired or if there’s a need to add restriction codes, you may need to prepare to pay for the following:

Valid PDL to NPDL

  • Application Fee – P 100.00

  • Replacement Fee – P 225.00

  • Change Classification – P 100.00

Total: P 425.00

Expired PDL to NPDL

  • Application Fee – P 100.00

  • Renewal Fee – P 585.00

  • Change Classification – P 100.00

Total: P 785.00 + penalty

Penalty

  • If expired 1 day to 1 year = P 75.00

  • 1 year and 1 day to 2 years = P 150.00

  • 2 years and 1 day to 10 years = P 225.00

Other Fees

Additional DL Code (Restriction Code) = P 100.00

Where to Process DL Change Classification (from PDL to NPDL)

When you need to request for a change in your driver’s license classification from professional to non-professional, you may go to any of the following LTO offices in the Philippines:

  • LTO Licensing Centers

  • Authorized LTO District Offices (DO) 

  • Authorized LTO Extension Offices (EO)

Important Reminders

If, for whatever reason, you decide to change your license classification from professional to non-professional through any of the designated LTO branch offices for licensing transactions, then these are the things you need to remember:

  • The steps on how to apply or renew pro and non-pro driver’s license are quite the same, as they include the requirement for application and validation, picture and signature, fee payment, written professional or non-professional driver’s license, and passing test, as well as actual driving skills tests.

  • The LTO exams are longer for professional driver’s license applicants.

  • Prepare all the documentary requirements (including the photocopies) before going to the LTO Office to avoid delays.

  • Visit the LTO office early, so you can finish it within the day. 

  • Regardless of license type, the driver’s license is usually released within the day of the application, though this may change depending on the office you’re transacting with.

  • As long as the general requirements are met, anyone can be eligible for an LTO DL Classification change. 

  • It is also possible to change classification from NPDL to PDL.

  • There is a different process if you wish to change classification from NPDL to PDL and add a restriction code at the same time.

  • You will need to create an online account to use the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) portal online and to set up an appointment and transact with LTO. But not all LTO offices in the country are connected to the system just yet. Some offices still accept walk-in applicants so it is very important that you check first before you go.

  • You will need to take the LTO exams if you need to add more restriction codes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For your reference, here are some of the most common questions and answers regarding changing DL classification from pro to non-pro licenses.

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

If you need to check your new LTO driver’s license for the license classification and vehicular restrictions, you may check the back of your license card. The license class information is in there, unlike the old one which has the information on the front side.

2. Is it possible to add more restriction codes while processing a classification change?

Yes. You may add more restriction codes but it will require you to take both written and practical exams. Plus, there’s an additional fee of Php 100.00 for additional restriction codes.

3. Do I need to take the LTO exams when requesting for a DL Classification Change?

It depends. Here’s the guide regarding classification change and LTO exams:

  • For those whose driver’s license has expired for more than two (2) years, they must first take and pass the Practical Driving Test. 

  • If the Professional License is valid and if there’s no additional DL code, only a written examination will be conducted.

  • If the Professional License is valid and if there’s an additional DL code, written and practical LTO examinations for the DL code applied for will be given.

  • If the Professional License is expired, you will take a written and practical examination.

  • If the Professional License is dormant, you are also required to pass the written and practical examinations.

Summary

Changing your Driver’s License Classification is easy, isn’t it. You simply need to ensure that you meet all the general requirements, pass the LTO exams as needed, and make sure to pay the fees. Then, you’ll need to visit an LTO licensing center or other LTO offices in the Philippines that cater to license applications and renewals and request for the change. Of course, it’s not free and you will need to pay for the relevant fees, especially if you are adding more DL codes. and get your biometrics logged before you can receive the new NPDL card which reflects the new driver’s license classification. It’s a pretty simple process and it doesn’t even take that much time as long as you go prepared, so it’s best to get it done and avoid hefty penalties when you get caught driving vehicle types you aren’t authorized to be driving at all. However, do note that for PDL to NPDL change, there might be an easier process since you’ll be restricting yourself to driving only for personal use. 

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