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How to Get an LTO Plate Number in Philippines

LTO license plate numbers are essential parts of every motor vehicle. It serves as a unique vehicle identifier and is issued as a set of numbers and letters on a metal plate by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in a bid to help protect the security of both drivers and car owners. Together with your car or motorcycle’s OR and CR, the LTO license plate number serves as the vehicle’s ID which allows law enforcers to track and tell whether a vehicle has the right to be used and driven on public streets or if it’s carnapped or stolen from someone else.

LTO license plates are essential for safety and security reasons. Unfortunately, many motorists are still waiting for their plate number to be released, despite already going through the motions of securing one. Thanks to the ever-increasing number of cars hitting the roads every year, LTO continues to have a hard time catching up, which incites anger among vehicle owners given the LTO’s No Registration, No Travel policy.

how to get lto license plate number lto philippines

What is an LTO License Plate Number

An LTO license plate number refers to the set of alphanumeric characters printed on a slim metal plate and attached to the front and back side of a motor vehicle. It serves as a vehicle’s ID, proving its legitimacy and giving the motor vehicle a unique identifier in terms of registration, road violations, and compliance with government laws. 

The LTO license plate and plate number works as a unit. After all, there can’t be one without the other. It is also an imperative for drivers and car owners to ensure that they initiate the process of securing one as driving around without a license plate number is illegal. It is be flagged down anytime and to be asked to present a Certificate of Registration (CR) and Official Receipt (OR) which could lead to hefty LTO fines and a lot of trouble for transgressors.

Use of Plate Number in Philippines

A license plate number is akin to a government-owned legal identification document, but only for motor vehicles. It comes in the form of a slim piece of metal that car owners and drivers are expected to place onto the car’s front and rear bumpers for several reasons:

  • It signals to law enforcers and other motorists that the vehicle has been duly registered and has therefore earned the right to traverse public roads. 
  • It also helps the authorities monitor if every vehicle on the road is adhering to traffic rules and regulations.
  • It serves as a visible identifier.
  • With a visible number plate, motorists are assured that violators can be caught and penalized. 
  • It does away with the possibility of having law enforcers on your tail as they would usually need to chase or flag down vehicles just to check the registration and driver’s license.
  • Having a valid and legal number plate enables both drivers and aspiring car owners to avoid as many legal problems and safety problems as possible.

Qualifications

According to the Land Transportation Office (LTO), the following can get any new motor vehicle or motorcycle registered so the car owners, drivers, and operator may get the OR/CR and secure an LTO license plate number:

  • Accredited importers
  • Accredited dealers
  • Motor vehicle owners 

Requirements

Because license plate numbers may be acquired from the LTO after the initial registration of motor vehicles, hence, the process requires the same set of requirements as such.  

For a complete list of motor vehicle registration requirements, you may learn more by reading this guide on how to register your motor vehicles at the LTO. 

In case you wish for a unique and customized LTO license plate, then the agency also offers vanity license plates. You may be able to get the list of requirements for this one when you learn about how to secure an LTO vanity license plate. 

In case of loss, the requirements for securing a duplicate license plate is detailed in this guide on how to secure a duplicate plate. 

Procedure: How to Get an LTO License Plate Number

As mentioned earlier, the process for securing an LTO license plate number starts with the registration of a motor vehicle or a motorcycle. Along with the OR/CR, the agency also releases the car sticker, plate number, and RFID sticker, though they aren’t given out all at the same time. In fact the LTO plate numbers are clearly stated in the OR/CR, but the slim metal plate where it is embossed for visibility usually takes much longer to be released. With the current backlog for license plate numbers at the LTO, it now takes even longer before one is released. 

For the detailed procedure on how to get an LTO license plate number, then you can follow these steps:

In Person, at the LTO Office 

Step 1: Gather and prepare all the required documents for registering the type of motor vehicle you have. 

Note: There is a different set of car registration requirements for brand new cars depending on the type—whether it is Locally, Imported, Registration of Light Electric Vehicle (LEV) (AO-2006-01), Registration of Low-Speed Vehicle (LSV), Three Wheeled Vehicle, or Tax Exempt.

Step 2: Visit the nearest LTO office that processes new vehicle registrations as not all LTO branches do so.

Note: You may always call the customer hotline of the nearest LTO branch from you to ask if they process new vehicle registration and save yourself the trouble of having to go there only to find out that they don’t process car registrations.

Step 3: Once there, go to the appropriate transaction counter.

Step 4: Submit all the documentary requirements you have gathered so the LTO evaluator can assess if the documents are complete and compute the fees based on the information that they have regarding your vehicle.

Step 5: Have the MV tested for emissions and submit the Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR) containing the results.

Step 6: Pay all the necessary fees at the cashier and wait for your OR (official receipt).

Step 7: Once done, wait for your turn at the Releasing Counter to obtain the Certificate of Registration (CR), plates, and stickers.

Using the LTO LTMS Online Portal 

Here are the steps you should follow if you want to register your vehicle with the help of LTO Land Transport Management System (LTMS) portal online:

Step 1: Visit the LTO LTMS Portal online.

Step 2: Log into your account, or if you do not have one yet, register for an LTMS portal online account.

Step 3: Once done, you can then start using the LTMS portal for your specific needs with LTO, like paying off your traffic violation fines as well as your car registration and renewal fees. 

Step 4: Take note of the payment reference number (PRN) if you pay the fees online. 

Note: You may also schedule an online appointment to visit your preferred LTO branch to streamline the process for your car registration and renewal.

For a detailed guide on acquiring an LTO vanity plate, you may read about how to secure an LTO vanity license plate. 

For lost plates, the procedures are listed in this guide to securing a duplicate plate. 

Fees: How Much Does it Cost to Get an LTO License Plate Number

Since the registration procedure for motor vehicles is the same procedure for securing an LTO license plate number, then the price you will need to pay when you go through the procedure remains the same as when you register your car for the first time. It may vary depending on a few factors, but it typically costs somewhere around P1,000.00 plus additional fees for the license plate, the stickers, vehicle tags, and the inspection.

These additional fees include:

  • Metal license plate – Php 450.00
  • Stickers and tags – Php 50.00 each. 
  • Inspection fees – Php 90.00 to Php 115.00
  • Penalty fee if you fail to show up during the schedule of your car’s registration – Php 50.00

Where to Get an LTO License Plate Number

The date and location for the release of the metal plates are usually found when you verify your LTO license plate numbers online. However, it is usually at the originating LTO office where you process your initial registration, which could be at the following LTO offices:

  • New Registration Units of the Regional Offices (ROs) 
  • New Registration Units of the authorized LTO District Offices (DOs) 
  • New Registration Units of the LTO Extension Offices (EOs)
  • For exempt Motor Vehicles (MVs), Under bond, and MVs under written commitment: LTO Diliman District Office
  • For Used Imported MVs: From Subic Freeport – LTO SBMA Extension Office

How to Verify Your LTO License Plate Number

Since the LTO license plate is usually released much later than the OR/CR, you may check for the license plate number via the following channels:

By checking the OR/CR

The LTO license plate number is actually printed out on the OR/CR issued by the transacting LTO office upon completing the MV registration procedures

Via the LTO plate number verification online

A plate number verification for private vehicles can be done online, via the LTO SMS plate number verification system to see if the plate number and registration are legitimate. It is unclear if public utility jeepneys (PUJs) and other public utility vehicles (PUVs) such as taxis, tricycles, motorcycles, and trucks are included in the LTO’s verification system database. 

Via SMS

There’s an option for LTO SMS plate number verification, too, and it works regardless of network service (Globe, TNT, Smart, Sun Cellular, Dito, or Gomo). Likewise, it costs the same across all networks and is only serviceable during regular office hours, Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. 

Important Reminders

For your reference, here are some important reminders you need to keep in mind when getting an LTO license plate number:

  • The LTO license plate number is usually issued after the LTO registration procedures for motor vehicles are completed.
  • The LTO plate number can be verified through the LTO verification system online or via SMS.
  • Getting the LTO plate number verified is extremely helpful if you do not want to stay too long at a police or a military checkpoint as you can just show them the message from the LTO proving that your car is totally clear of any apprehension and records.
  • This service is also quite useful for the police force, especially if they are out to get crooks and carnappers in a checkpoint.
  • The costs for the actual license plate (P450.00) is included in the fees paid for during registration.
  • Securing a duplicate plate is possible, in cases of loss, theft, or mutilation. 

Video: How to Get a License Plate in case of Loss

Learn more about how to get a new LTO license plate in case of loss or theft, watch this video posted by Tongbits TV:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

You may also check on the common question and answers regarding how to get an LTO license plate here: 

1. Can I use a temporary plate before my license plate is released by the LTO?

Yes. You may get a temporary plate from the dealer where you purchased the motor vehicle or simply use your car’s conduction stickers as the temporary plate. Both are allowed by the LTO anyway.

2. How can I check if the LTO license plates are available for pickup?

You may use the 15-digit Motor Vehicle (MV) number on the OR/CR on the LTO verification system online or via SMS to check if the license plates are ready for release. Of course, you may always reach out to LTO directly, either by making a phone call, sending a message, or making a personal trip to the LTO office where you processed your MV’s registration.

3. Where can I find the 15-digit Motor Vehicle (MV) number?

The 15-digit Motor Vehicle (MV) number can be found in the original official receipt/certificate of registration (OR/CR). If you check your OR/CR, you will see your Motor Vehicle (MV) number on the top-left side. You will need this to run plate number checks. Once the system recognizes the status, it will tell you all the registration information as well as when and where you can pick your plate up from an LTO office, if it has not yet been released.

Summary

If you are still reading, we’re pretty sure you are no longer wondering why there’s so much clamor to speed up the release of the LTO plate numbers. After all, the license plates are necessary to drive vehicles both for identification and safety and security reasons.

Moreover, together with your car or motorcycle’s OR and CR, your LTO plate number serves as your vehicle’s unique identifier, making it easier to track in cases of accidents. 

Affidavit of Loss LTO Sample

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) usually requires an Affidavit of Loss in cases of lost driver’s license, lost conductor’s license, lost motor vehicle official receipt and certificate of registration (OR/CR), or lost number plates. Sure, it’s not all that you’ll need, but in cases of lost anything, an Affidavit of Loss is one requirement you can’t afford to be without. 

If you are at a loss on what to do or how to secure an Affidavit of Loss for use at the LTO Office, then you may learn more about how to secure or draft an Affidavit of Loss. In case you can’t, you may also use the following template, a sample Affidavit of Loss for LTO, to save you the hassle of writing one from scratch.

lto affidavit of loss sample

What is an Affidavit of Loss?

An Affidavit of Loss is a legal document declaring the loss of something, usually a license, an OR/CR, or a number plate (if the affidavit is to be used at the LTO). Regardless if the loss was due to theft, misplacement, or destruction, the Affidavit of Loss is a necessary requirement to obtain a replacement for your driver’s or conductor’s license, OR/CR, or number plates. It serves as an oath outlining that to the best of the person’s knowledge the license, OR/CR, or number plate is truly gone. 

Anytime an individual loses a document that cannot be immediately replaced with a copy, there is usually a need to file for an affidavit of loss. At the LTO, this is usually upon the loss of a license, a duplicate OR/CR, or a duplicate number plate of a vehicle. As simple as it seems, many people confuse the affidavit of loss with a written document explaining as to how the item was lost. Ultimately, while the purpose is the same, an Affidavit of Loss is much more credible, as it is usually documented officially or notarized with the help of a licensed lawyer. 

Content Format of an Affidavit of Loss

Though the LTO Affidavit of Loss may be used under different circumstances related to loss and the LTO, the affidavit itself is unchanging in its content, and must always contain the following information:

  • Title of the document

  • Personal information
    • Full name

    • Statement that affiant is of legal age

    • Civil status

    • Citizenship

    • Residence address

    • Residence Certificate Number

  • A narration of the circumstances of the loss, which includes
    • A description of the item or document lost

    • A description of how it got lost

    • The effort exerted to find it; and 

    • Your request for a replacement of the item or document lost.

  • The signature of the affiant or the person executing/signing the document.

  • The jurat or the oath or affirmation before the notary public that you have personally executed the document in the notary’s presence.

For Affidavit of Loss to be used at the LTO, the owner of the lost item must also provide information such as the make, model, and vehicle identification number for the vehicle associated with the missing documents. Though the rules and requirements regarding information required when filing an Affidavit of Loss may vary, it is always necessary to have the Affidavit of Loss notarized.

Who Can Get a Notarized Affidavit of Loss for LTO

A notarized Affidavit of Loss for LTO is something that only those who have lost LTO documents, OR/CR, license, or number plates, are required to have to be able to get duplicates or a second copy. 

Requirements for Securing an Affidavit of Loss

To get a notarized Affidavit of Loss, one must prepare the following requirements:

  • Presentation of Original and submission of one (1) photocopy of any of the following valid government issued identification card with photo and signature
    • Philippine Identification (PhilID) Card

    • Philippine passport

    • Social Security System (SSS) Card, 

    • UMID Card

    • PhilHealth ID

    • TIN Card

    • Postal ID

    • Voter’s ID

    • Barangay ID

    • PRC 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

  • Presentation of Original Residence Certificate (cedula)

  • Money for payment of notarial fees

How to Get a Notarized Affidavit of Loss

If, somehow, you find yourself in need of an LTO Affidavit of Loss, then here are the steps on how to get one:

Step 1: Prepare three (3) copies of the affidavit document (if you can) to help save money. 

Step 2: If you can’t or you don’t mind the expenses, visit a notary public.

Step 3: With a government-issued photo ID and a residence certificate at hand, proceed to a licensed notary public office.

Step 4: Request for an Affidavit of Loss detailing when and how the driver’s license, OR/CR, or license plate was lost  (if you don’t have a prepared affidavit document).

Step 5: Provide all the details, including the exact address indicated on your lost LTO documents.

Step 6: Wait for the affidavit to be printed, signed, and notarized (if you didn’t prepare it) or signed and notarized (if you prepared the document beforehand).

Step 7: Pay the necessary fees for the notarial service.

Fees

If you are worrying about the fees associated with the Affidavit of Loss, then you really shouldn’t as it doesn’t cost much. If you come with a prepared affidavit, the price ranges from P100.00 to P400.00. If you didn’t, however, the fees range from P500.00 to P800.00 depending on the notary public that you are visiting. If you are an indigent, you may visit the Public Attorney’s Office and secure a notarized Affidavit of Loss for free. 

Sample Affidavit of Loss LTO Template Form

To give you an idea about how an Affidavit of Loss looks like on paper and to help you draft a copy for personal use, you may check this sample Affidavit of Loss for lost LTO driver’s license:

affidavit of loss LTO

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES)

CITY OF MAKATI            ) S.S.

x—————————-x

AFFIDAVIT OF LOSS

 I, ___________________, of legal age, Filipino, (single/married/widow) and a resident of _______________________________, after having been duly sworn to in accordance with law, depose and state THAT:

1. I am a duly-licensed driver in accordance with pertinent Land Transportation laws, rules and regulations, and was issued a corresponding (Non) Professional Driver’s License with number _____________ which is valid until _____________;

2. Sometime on ____________, said driver’s license was misplaced and got lost;

3. Efforts were exerted to locate said driver’s license, but in spite of diligent search, it could not be found and the same is now beyond recovery;

4. Said Driver’s License has not been confiscated by the LTO, Police or other Traffic Enforcers for any traffic violation;

5. As such, I am executing this Affidavit of Loss to attest to the truth of the foregoing and to support my application for the issuance of a new (Non) Professional Driver’s License, in lieu of the one that was lost;

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this ___________________ in Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines.

Affiant.
ID No.: _________________.

SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN TO before me this ___________________ in _________________, Philippines, affiant exhibiting to me his/her competent evidence of identity by way of __________________ issued at ______________ on __________________.

Doc. No. _____;

Page No. _____;

Book No. _____;

Series of 2023.

Important Tips and Warnings

For your reference, here are some important reminders you might want to take note of:

  • Some government offices and private institutions (e.g., banks) have their Affidavit of Loss template, so it is best to check their website and use their pro forma template to save you time and money. You simply need to fill it out and bring it to the notary.

  • The Affidavit of Loss is different from a regular written statement explaining the loss, though it does give out details regarding the lost item. 

  • Securing an Affidavit of Loss usually entails making payments, but indigents may get it for free. 

  • As an Affidavit of Loss is a sworn statement, it is a must to be truthful and accurate in executing one. 

  • If the authorities find out that you have executed a false affidavit, you might face legal repercussions later on. 

  • The LTO does not have their own pro forma template for the Affidavit of Loss so you may simply make one or have the Notary Public make one for you. 

  • If you wish to save money, you might want to have an affidavit document prepared beforehand so you will only need to pay notarial services. 

Video: How to File an Affidavit if Loss at the LTO

Learn more about the fees, requirements and procedures of executing and filing an Affidavit of Loss for lost license plates at the LTO. Watch this video from Mr. BI Vlogs today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To learn more about executing an Affidavit of Loss for lost LTO documents or number plates, here are some common questions and answers that might help:

1. Should an Affidavit of Loss be notarized?

Yes. The Affidavit of Loss should be notarized as the affidavit only becomes a legal document if it is executed under oath. Having it notarized means you are attesting to the whole truth of the contents of your affidavit. That is the purpose of the jurat, which starts with the words “SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN TO..”

If your statement is false, you can be prosecuted for perjury. 

2. Will the notary public notarize my affidavit even if I do not have an ID?

Yes. The notary public may notarize your document if your situation falls into any of the following conditions: 

a. The notary public personally knows you;
b. The notary public does not know you, but one credible witness who is personally known to the notary public can confirm your identity;
c. If you can bring two credible witnesses who have IDs, and they can confirm your identity to the notary.

3. How much does the Affidavit of Loss cost in the Philippines?

The going rate for notarizing the affidavit of loss usually starts at P100.00. The cost varies depending on the place and the notary public itself. If they will also prepare the document, it can go up to P500.00 to P800.00 depending on the notary public. 

4. Can I get a free Affidavit of Loss?

Yes. You may also get a free Affidavit of Loss if you are indigent. Indigents can get their Affidavit of Loss notarized for free at the Public Attorney’s Office, as the latter offers notarial services to indigent persons.

To be considered indigent, your family income should not exceed P14,000.00 per month if you reside in Metro Manila, P13,000.00 for other cities, and P12,000.00 for all other places. You may also check the Legal Office or the Councilor’s Office of your city or municipality, as they sometimes offer free notarial services to their constituents.

5. How long is the validity period of the Affidavit of Loss? Does it expire?

An Affidavit of Loss has no specific expiry date, but it is only valid for the specific incident where the document is lost, so you can only use it once. It means once you obtain a replacement for the lost document and lose it again, you’ll have to execute another Affidavit of Loss and can no longer use the previous one.

6. I lost my bag containing several documents and IDs. Should I execute one Affidavit of Loss for each item/document lost, or can I execute just one Affidavit for all?

You do not need to make one Affidavit of Loss for each. One affidavit for all will suffice. 

7. I already found my lost license but I have already declared it lost and executed an Affidavit of Loss with LTO. How can I cancel or withdraw the Affidavit of Loss?

If you have already received a replacement license, then you can simply surrender the old one or just keep it until it expires. By then, it won’t matter whether or not you have two copies of driver’s license anyway.

8. Can I get an Affidavit of Loss for lost professional driver’s license at the barangay hall?

Yes. You may check the barangay for free notarial services that they sometimes offer to their constituents. In case there isn’t one available, then there’s no way to execute an Affidavit of Loss from there. 

Summary

Getting an Affidavit of Loss is a simple matter. It can be done by printing the document yourself or by simply making a short visit at a notary public’s office. Though it seems easy to make dishonest statements using this affidavit, do note that if the authorities find out that you are being dishonest when you execute your affidavit, you may face legal repercussions which might lead to hefty fines or penalties. 

How to Apply for LTO Accreditation for Driving Schools

More driving schools are starting to apply for accreditation from the Land Transportation Office (LTO), thanks to the addition of the different driving course completion certificates as requirements for new driver’s and conductor’s license applications. Now, new student permit applicants must take a mandatory 15-hour Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) while non-professional drivers are required to take an additional Practical Driving Course (PDC) before they receive their license from the LTO. Even renewals require one to complete courses, giving the driving schools its moment of fame. 

This change in the LTO made it inevitable for more driving schools to pop up in the country, allowing more Filipinos to apply and learn how to drive. The agency has even extended an invitation for individuals who wish to put up their own accredited driving schools to apply for accreditation at the LTO. That said, more schools have responded to this call and started opening, creating more slots for students. With this, Filipinos will have more schools and times to choose from should they wish to take up a driving course on the road to a license in the Philippines. 

driving school lto accreditation application

What is an LTO-Accredited Driving School

An LTO-accredited driving school is a steering and driving learning institution, usually a private one, that has received the authority from the LTO to engage in the conduct of lectures on Theoretical and Practical Driving Courses. These private driving institutions have passed the stringent screening and inspection procedures for LTO accreditation, allowing it to operate and offer “quality training” with the help of impressive facilities and extensive experience and expertise in steering cars and all the legal aspects associated with it.

Classification of Driving Schools Accreditation Applicants

There are different classes of LTO-accredited driving schools. These are:

New Driving Schools

New Driving Schools refers to any person or group of persons, natural or juridical, who intends to establish and operate a driving school. This type is required to file an application for accreditation with the Office of the Regional Director through the Regional Accreditation Committee (RAC) concerned to prove that they do have what it takes to contain the prescribed information and to show compliance with the standard requirements of the agency.

Currently Accredited Driving Schools 

Currently accredited driving schools are those institutions that have already been established and operating, and which have previously been issued a 

certificate to operate. These schools are already LTO-accredited, though some may operate on a provisional permit. Currently accredited driving schools are, in essence, existing driving schools with LTO accreditation.

Practical Driving Education and Examination Center (PDEEC) – Driving 

A PDEEC is a facility owned or operated by an individual or group of individuals or entities duly authorized and accredited by the LTO. It was designed and established as a venue for the conduct of practical driving courses and practical driving examination usually administered by an accredited driving school instructor and Driving Skills Rater (DSR), respectively. PDEEC are usually driving schools that are of good standing or have no record of violations and suspensions for the last accreditation period. These schools are highly rated and only become PDEEC with the recommendation of the RAC.

Purpose of LTO Accreditation for Driving Schools

LTO accreditation refers to the procedures by which LTO authorizes a juridical entity in accordance with the standards and procedures set forth by the agency. The accreditation serves the following purposes:

  • To ensure compliance of driving institutions with the prescribed standards on driving instructor’s qualifications, physical sites and facilities, equipment, materials, and other similar requirements;

  • To ensure uniformity of the education course components, including topics of instruction and minimum time requirements, in all accredited driving institutions; 

  • To raise the standard of instruction to a specific level of quality and to develop safety consciousness and positive driving attitudes with the aim of minimizing the incidence of road crashes;

  • To issue the authority to offer driver and conductor education programs; 

  • To roll out recently issued rules and regulations in relation to the operation of driving institutions;

  • To ensure the efficient implementation of rules and regulations in relation to the operation of driving institutions.

Eligibility for LTO Accreditation for Driving Schools

The LTO accreditation for driving schools is available to any person or group of persons, natural or juridical, who intends to establish and operate a driving school in the Philippines. 

Requirements for LTO Accreditation for Driving Schools

To secure an LTO accreditation for driving schools, you must first prepare the following documentary requirements:

  • Duly accomplished Application Form 

  • Certified True Copy of the Certificate of Business Name Registration

  • If applicable, document specifying the name of authorized representatives who must be an officer of the partnership / corporation / cooperative, like
    • Articles of Incorporation 

    • Partnership

    • Cooperative and Board  Resolution issued by the Board Secretary

  • Valid Business Permit

  • BIR Certificate of Registration and Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN)

  • Pre-operating Financial Statement showing that the owner-applicant shall be in such financial condition as to reasonably expect it to operate for at least one (1) year

  • Bank Certificate or Credit Line in the name of the proprietor of the driving school in case of sole proprietorship, or in the name of partnership or corporation, whichever is applicable
    • Three Million Pesos (P3,000,000) for the main office

    • One Million Five Hundred Thousand Pesos (P1,500,000) for every additional driving school

  • Applications of at least one (1) Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) instructor and one (1) Practical Driving Course (PDC) instructor with their documentary requirements

  • Location plan and a sketch of maneuvering site

  • Official Receipt (OR) and Certificate of Registration (CR) of the vehicles

Facilities and Equipment Requirement for Driving School 

Other than the documentary requirements, the driving school must have the following facilities and equipment:

Classroom (Main Office and Branches) 

  • Must have a minimum classroom dimension of twenty-four (24) square meters with a space of not less than one and a half square meters (1 .5 sq. m) for every student for a maximum class size of forty (40) students 

  • Must ensure that ergonomics, anthropometry, thermal comfort, ventilation, illumination, and acoustics are considered in the overall layout and design

  • Must have audio-visual materials and display with a  lateral dimension of not be less than six (6) inches

  • Must have an updated set of traffic signs, signals, and pavement markings as described in the manual of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and other land transportation regulatory agencies. The. 

  • Must have automotive components and parts assemblies to be used as aids in teaching basic automotive servicing (for students intending to apply for a light vehicle professional driver’s license)  

  • Must be equipped with a closed-circuit television (CCTV) system connected with built-in date and time recording features with a graphic resolution of at least 5MP.
    • Must have an external hard drive or similar storage devices for the recording

    • Must have a well-maintained database of student records for monitoring and evaluation

  • Must have attendance sheets available

Facilities and Equipment for Driving Schools Seeking PDEEC Accreditation

The facility requirements for PDEEC operations are as follows: 

PDEEC for Motorcycle 

  • Must have authorized test vehicles for both DL Codes A and A1 for the practical driving examination by the Driving Skill Rater (DSR).

  • With at least 300 square meters of space with a minimum width of 20 meters. 

  • The PDEEC shall comply with the parking requirement as provided under Presidential Decree No. 1096 or the National Building Code of the Philippines, as amended. 

  • Must have enough area, signage, equipment, and facilities to perform the following maneuvers:
    • Serpentine Maneuver

    • Left Turn 

    • Stop in the Box

    • Cone Weave 

    • U-turn 

    • Acceleration 

    • Sudden Braking

PDEEC for Light Vehicles 

  • Must have authorized test vehicles for DL Codes B, 81 and B2 for the conduct of practical driving examination by the Driving Skill Rater (DSR). 

  • With at least 2,800 square meters is required with a minimum width of 40 meters and a minimum length of 70 meters. The 2,800 sq. m shall be inclusive of the 300 sq. m requirement if they offer PDEEC for motorcycles. 

  • The PDEEC shall comply with the parking requirement as provided under Presidential Decree No. 1096 or the National Building Code of the Philippines, as amended. 

  • Must have enough area, signage, equipment, and facilities to perform the following maneuvers:
    • Starting and Stopping

    • Gear Shifting; 

    • Left turn; 

    • Right Turn; 

    • Traffic Light; 

    • Intersection (4-way crossing); 

    • U-Turn;

    • Backing; 

    • Parallel Parking; 

    • Perpendicular Parking; 

    • Reverse Parking; 

    • Diagonal Parking; 

    • Uphill Hanging (elevated gradient); 

    • Downhill hanging (declined gradient); 

    • 2-point turn; 

    • 3-point turn ; 

    • Overtaking; 

    • Roundabout; 

    • Pedestrian Crossing; and 

    • Yield (merging lanes). 

PDEEC for Heavy Vehicles 

  • Must have authorized test vehicles for C, D, and CE DL codes for the conduct of practical driving examination by the Driving Skill Rater (DSR). 

  • With at least 3,000 square meters with a minimum width of 50 meters. 

  • The PDEEC must comply with the parking requirement as provided under Presidential Decree No. 1096 or the National Building Code of the Philippines, as amended. 

  • Must have enough area, signage, equipment, and facilities to perform the following maneuvers:
    • Starting and Stopping; 

    • Gear Shifting; 

    • Left turn;

    • Right Turn; 

    • Traffic Light; 

    • Intersection (4-way crossing); 

    • U-Turn; 

    • Backing; 

    • Parallel Parking; 

    • Perpendicular Parking; 

    • Reverse Parking; 

    • Diagonal Parking; 

    • Uphill Hanging (elevated gradient); 

    • Downhill hanging (declined gradient); 

    • 2-point turn; 

    • 3-point turn; 

    • Overtaking; 

    • Roundabout; 

    • Pedestrian Crossing;  

    • Yield (merging lanes)

Reportorial Requirements 

As far as reportorial requirements, the driving school is also required to submit the following reports to the RAC within five (5) days after the end of each month: 

  • List of graduates for the month and the dates of their attendance; 

  • Summary of transactions for the month:
    • TDC 

    • PDC per DL Code; 

  • List of scholarship recipients for the month; 

  • Semestral report on drug tests conducted; and 

  • All other reports as may be required by the RAC. 

  • A Consolidated Report to the CODIAC every 15th of the succeeding month using the template provided by the LTO. 

Procedures for LTO Accreditation for Driving Schools

For a complete guide on how to get LTO accreditation as a driving school, please check the following steps:

Step 1: Visit the Regional Accreditation Committee (RACs) at the LTO Regional Office with jurisdiction over the location of the driving school. 

Step 2: Proceed to the RAC Secretariat and secure the application form for the accreditation of driving schools. You may also download the form from the LTO website (www.lto.gov.ph).

Step 3: Submit the application form and the documentary requirements to the designated officer at the RAC Secretariat in the LTO Regional Office for completeness and verification.

Step 4: Once the documents are evaluated and verified by the designated personnel from the RAC Secretariat Regional Office, you will be issued a Payment Order Slip (POS).

Step 5: Upon issuance of your Payment Order Slip (POS), proceed to the cashier for the payment of non-refundable application fee. 

Step 6: Once paid, wait for the OR to be issued.

Step 7: Once your OR for the payment of the application fees is released, proceed to the RAC and submit a copy of the Application Fee OR.

Step 8: Wait for the RAC Secretariat to complete the evaluation of the submitted documents.

  • Step 8a: If found non-compliant, you will be notified in writing of any deficiency or nonconformity in the submitted requirements as well as recorded findings after the inspection.

  • Step 8b: You will be given a non-extendible period of ten (10) working days from receipt of the notice to comply with the findings. 

  • Step 8c: Within five (5) days, the RAC will conduct an ocular inspection and disapprove the application or endorse the same together with the approved Inspection Report to the Central Office Driving Institutions Accreditation Committee (CODIAC).

Step 9: The CODIAC and the Inspection Team will conduct an inspection of the driving school’s facilities, equipment, motor vehicles, and other requirements as prescribed.

  • Step 9a: Otherwise, the CODIAC, within a period of five (5) working days, shall either disapprove the application or endorse the same together with the approved Inspection Report.
    • If found non-compliant: In case the CODIAC finds a deficiency or nonconformity in the submitted requirements, the CODIAC Vice Chairperson shall immediately notify in writing the applicant, through the RAC, stating the grounds for disapproval. 

    • If approved: The CODIAC Secretariat shall prepare a Certificate of Accreditation 

  • Step 9b: The CODIAC Vice Chairperson shall then recommend the approval of the same to the Assistant Secretary. 

  • Step 9c: The Assistant Secretary, within fifteen (15) working days upon receipt in his office, shall approve or disapprove the applications for accreditation as endorsed by the CODIAC.

Step 10: Wait for the Payment Order Slip (POS) to be issued.

Step 11: Upon issuance of your Payment Order Slip (POS), proceed to the cashier for the payment of the accreditation fee and other related fees. 

Step 12: Once paid, wait for the OR to be issued.

Step 13: Once your OR for the payment of the accreditation and other fees is released, submit a copy of OR to the RAC Secretariat.

Step 14: Once the CODIAC Secretariat receives the register the driving school details to the LTMS immediately upon receipt of the approved Certificate of Accreditation. 

Step 15: Wait for the approved Certificate of Accreditation to be released after the RAC disseminates it to the accredited driving school. 

Cost of LTO Accreditation for Driving Schools

When applying for LTO accreditation for a driving school, you may want to prepare to pay the following LTO fees: 

  • Application Fee – P 1,000.00

  • Legal Research Fee – P 10.00

  • Accreditation Fee – P 5,000.00

  • Legal Research Fee – P 10.00

Where to Apply for LTO Accreditation for Driving Schools

When applying for LTO accreditation for your driving school, you would need to visit the Regional Accreditation Committee (RACs)  at the LTO Regional Office with jurisdiction over the area where the driving school is located.

Processing Time

Accreditation of Driving School is under multi-stage processing. That said, each process may be done within the day or two, depending on the availability or compliance of the applicant. The total processing time, however, is estimated to be within 40 working days.

Important Reminders

For your reference, here are some important tips and reminders you’d want to remember when applying for LTO accreditation for a driving school.

  • No driving school shall operate without having a valid certificate of accreditation.

  • Accreditation of Driving School is under multi-stage processing. 

  • Processing time includes waiting time and starts upon the submission of complete requirements, and excludes the time for shipping of the certificates and other documents from Regional Office to Central Office and vice versa.

  • In the event of findings of deficiency or nonconformity in the submitted requirements and inspection, the applicant shall be notified in writing and shall be given a non-extendible period of ten (10) working days from receipt of the notice to comply.

  • The Assistant Secretary, within fifteen (15) working days upon receipt in his office, shall approve or disapprove the applications for accreditation as endorsed by the CODIAC. If the Assistant Secretary failed to do so, the said application shall be deemed approved provided that all required documents have been submitted and all required fees and charges have been paid (Sec. 10 of R.A. No. 11032, otherwise known as the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act of 2018)

  • The applicant for accreditation as a driving school shall file an application with the Office of the Regional Director through the Regional Accreditation Committee (RAC) having jurisdiction over the location of the driving school.

  • Applications with incomplete requirements shall not be accepted.

  • Certificate of Accreditation shall be valid for one (1) year reckoned from the date of payment of accreditation fee.

  • Driving School Kiosks in malls or registration offices may be established for marketing purposes only. The driving schools are required to inform the RAC about the existence or establishment of a kiosk. In no case shall any course of instruction of the L TO be conducted in the kiosk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For more information, here are some common questions and answers regarding LTO accreditation for driving schools:

1. What is RAC?

RAC stands for Regional Accreditation Committee. This committee is constituted in the Regional Office level to receive and evaluate new and renewal applications for accreditation of driving institutions and their instructors, and for recommendation to the Central Office Driving Institutions Accreditation Committee (CODIAC) for final evaluation prior to the recommendation to the Assistant Secretary for approval and issuance of Certificate of Accreditation.

2. What is CODIAC?

CODIAC refers to the Central Office Driving Institutions Accreditation Committee, an LTO committee responsible for the review and evaluation of the submitted application for new and renewal of accreditation of driving institutions and instructors for the approval of the Assistant Secretary.

3. Why do driving schools need to get LTO accreditation?

The LTO accreditation is necessary in order to improve the quality of driver’s education and to ensure that driver’s licenses are issued only to deserving applicants with sufficient driving skills and knowledge on road safety and proper road courtesy.

4. Can I visit any LTO office to secure an LTO accreditation for my driving school? 

No. You can only visit the RAC at the LTO Regional Office with jurisdiction over the location of the driving school. 

5. How much does it cost to become an LTO-accredited driving school?

LTO accreditation for driving school takes about forty (40) days and at leasts P6,020.00. 

6. How long is the accreditation for driving schools valid? 

The Certificate of Accreditation is only valid for one (1) year from the date of payment of accreditation fee.

7. What does a DSR do?

A DSR or Driving Skills Rater is an employee of the LTO who administers theoretical examination and practical driving examination to applicant-driver prior to the issuance of an appropriate driver’s license.

Summary

With the increase in courses required by the LTO from drivers, and conductors, a driving school business is, indeed, a good business idea. In case you decide to delve into the business, you can prepare yourself for the legal procedures, including securing an LTO accreditation to be able to operate legally in the Philippines. It’s mandatory and securing an accreditation ensures that you won’t be facing legal liabilities and paying hefty fines as an LTO-accredited driving school later on.

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