How to Register as an LTO-Accredited Physician

In January to February 2019, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) all over the Philippines started to only work with accredited physicians and clinics regarding the processing of medical certificates—one of the most important documentary requirements necessary when applying for or renewing an LTO driver’s license in the country. 

When the LTO made restrictions to the processing of medical certificates, they created a system where only the medical certificates transmitted electronically by accredited physicians in LTO-accredited medical clinics will be valid. Do note, however, that even when the clinic is LTO-accredited, not all employed doctors automatically become accredited physicians. Instead, they would need to secure accreditation individually, and the process of doing so is detailed in this guide. 

how to register as lto accredited physician

What is an LTO-Accredited Physician?

An LTO-accredited physician refers to doctors who have received the stamp of approval and trust of the LTO. These physicians are in-charge of running physical and mental examinations and evaluation on aspiring drivers to ensure that they are worthy of being given the power to drive motor vehicles on public roads.

LTO-accredited doctors usually work in LTO-accredited medical clinics. Even when the clinic is LTO-accredited, its doctors would first need to secure accreditation by applying for it on their own. The procedures for registration as an LTO-accredited physician is a short one, with minimal requirements and procedures, but it isn’t free. It comes with a registration fee amounting to P3,000.00 and requires applicants to personally appear at the LTO regional office closest to them for biometrics encoding.

Eligibility for LTO Physicians Registration

All qualified private and government physicians who bear a PRC license are eligible for LTO Philippines Physicians Registration.

Requirements for LTO Physicians Registration

Before initiating the request for registration as an LTO-accredited doctor, one must first prepare the following documentary requirements:

General Requirements For Private and Government Physicians Registration in LTO Philippines

  • Duly accomplished application form, endorsed by the owner of the clinic or head of the government health facility / agency or the authorized representative
  • Two (2) pieces of 2×2 photo with name tag (taken within the last three months prior to the date of application for registration
  • One (1) Certified true copy of Certificate of Registration duly issued by the Board of Medical Examiners or proof of application pending the release of Certificate
  • Original copy of the Certificate of Membership and good standing from the Philippine Medical Association (PMA) or its component society
  • Presentation of Original and submission of one (1) photocopy of the valid Professional Regulation Commission license card
  • Presentation of Original and submission of one (1) photocopy of any of the following valid government issued identification card (other than PRC) 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
    • 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 and submission of one (1) photocopy of Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN) card or any document indicating the TIN (must bring original copy to be presented)

Additional Requirements of LTO Physicians Registration

Depending on whether the physician work in private or public hospital, here are some additional registration documents:

For Private Physicians

  • Presentation of Original and submission of one (1) photocopy of current Professional Tax Receipt (PTR) (Original copy to be presented)

For Government Physicians

  • One (1) Certified true copy of approved appointment or Certificate of Employment issued by the agency
  • Original copy of the Authority to Engage in the Private Practice of Profession approved by the Head of Agency where he/she is employed (for government physicians who desire to engage in private practice)

Procedures for Registration as an LTO-Accredited Physician

For registration as an LTO-accredited physician, a licensed doctor, regardless of whether he works in private or government hospital, must follow these registration procedures:

Step 1: Visit the LTO Regional Office where the medical clinic is accredited.

Step 2: Proceed to the Assessment and Compliance Monitoring Team (ACMT) Counter and secure the application form for the registration of physicians.

Step 3: Submit the documentary requirements to the designated officer at the ACMT Secretariat in the LTO Regional Office for completeness and verification through the Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC) website.

Step 4: Once the documents are evaluated and verified by the designated personnel from the ACMT Secretariat Regional Office, you will be called in for an interview with the ACMT Members/Chairperson for a personal assessment.

Step 5: Upon passing the interview, wait for your turn at the encoding window. You will be required to have a digital photograph and biometric fingerprint scan for encoding.

Step 6: Wait for the issuance of your Pay Order Slip (POS).

Step 7: Once you receive the POS, proceed to the cashier for the payment of fees.

Step 8: Once paid, wait for the OR to be issued.

Step 9: Once your OR is released, proceed to the Releasing window and present your OR.

Step 10: Wait for the Certificate of Registration to be released.

Once you have secured a Certificate of Registration, you may already offer your medical services to drivers and aspiring drivers who are looking to get a physical and medical assessment for their LTO medical certificate.

Fees

To get registered as an LTO-accredited physician, you must be prepared to pay for the Registration Fee amounting to P3,000.00. 

Where to Register

To process an application for registration as an LTO-accredited doctor, you will need to visit the LTO Regional Office closest to your place of residence.

Processing Time

The application for registration as an LTO-accredited doctor usually takes at least one (1) day, one (1) hour, and forty-five (45) minutes. 

Note that the estimated processing time stated herein includes waiting time and this only starts upon the submission of complete requirements.

Important Reminder

For your reference, here are some important things you need to remember as you register as an LTO-accredited physician:

  • One can apply for registration as an LTO-accredited physician at the LTO Regional office where the medical clinic was accredited.
  • Accredited doctors who issue medical certificates to driver’s license applicants without any physical examination may face suspension or permanent closure when caught.
  • The accreditation for doctors at the LTO is not free. 
  • Registration as an accredited doctor is an important procedure at the LTO as they offer services that are part of the process for securing driver’s licenses or motor vehicle registration.
  • As the LTO transitioned to a digitized agency, the transmittal of medical certificates has changed and the LTO now only accepts electronically transmitted ones via the Land Transport Management System (LTMS) portal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To help make the registration procedures as painless as possible, here are some common questions and answers related to registration an an LTO-accredited physician:

1. Can I register as an LTO-accredited physician from any LTO office? 

No. You cannot just visit any LTO office. You will need to go to the LTO Regional Office where the medical clinic you work for is accredited before you can process a registration as an LTO-accredited doctor. 

2. How much does it cost to register as an LTO-accredited doctor?

Registration as an LTO-accredited physician doesn’t require too much, only the registration fee which amounts to a total of P3,000.00. 

3. Why do doctors need to register to become accredited by the LTO? 

The LTO gives utmost importance to all the processes involved in the issuance of a driver’s license. As LTO-accredited doctors offer services that are part of the process for securing driver’s licenses or motor vehicle registration, then the agency needs to check if you fit the bill and are worthy of deciding whether another person is roadworthy or not, at least in terms of physical and medical conditions. 

4. Is it possible to get the medical certificate without getting a physical exam if I go to an LTO-accredited doctor?

No. It is illegal for LTO-accredited doctors to issue a medical certificate without doing a physical and medical exam. When caught, an LTO-accredited physician may face suspension while the clinic may face permanent closure.

5. Can I register as an LTO-accredited doctor if I work in a private clinic/hospital?

Yes. Regardless of whether one works in a private or in a government hospital, so long as you are a licensed physician, you may apply for registration at the LTO regional office near you.

Summary

The registration procedures to become an LTO-accredited physician may not be of interest to the general public, but it is an important procedure that everyone must be aware of in order to understand how much importance the bureau places on these things. It proves that the agency cares enough to ensure that the services they offer are done by professionals and that they pay attention to details to ensure that every driver is deemed roadworthy before being allowed to drive on public roads. Plus, the service isn’t free so it may deter those who aren’t serious in offering their professional expertise properly. 

LTO Revision of Records: Incorrect Name  

Changing incorrect names in the Land Transportation Office (LTO) records is something that needs to be done to keep the records straight. Not only is it important when processing your LTO-related transactions, but it also ensures that you are not held accountable for violation caused by using an incorrect name in your driver’s license. 

Solving problems on incorrect names on your driver’s license is a simple matter of making a request for revision of records at the LTO. Though it sounds simple enough, it’s still best to come prepared so you can avoid getting inconvenienced. 

lto revision of records incorrect name

LTO Revision of Records: Incorrect Name

Revision of records at the LTO refers to the process of  updating or revising personal records of registered or licensed drivers. Revising records with incorrect names in LTO records refer to record change due to misspelled first name or incorrectly entered name format. It only involves a clerical correction, so a court order authorizing such revision is no longer necessary. There are times, however, when the last name is incorrect. In such cases, you will need a court order to authorize the change and to prove that you are who you say you are. 

Nevertheless, whether it’s an incorrect first or last name, making sure your LTO records are updated is one way of keeping yourself safe. Plus, these personal records reflect on your driver’s license, so it’s best to make it factual lest you get charged for falsifying public documents and get your license revoked. An updated LTO profile also helps when you access the Land Transport Management System (LTMS) portal for online LTO services and LTO alerts and notifications. It also helps make your LTO transactions easier and faster and your driver records up-to-date. 

Eligibility for Incorrect Name Change at LTO

Anybody who is a holder of a registered Driver’s License (DL) with an incorrect name and who intends to update his Driver’s License Record with LTO is eligible to make this request. 

The applicant must also satisfy the following conditions:

  • Able to read and write in Filipino, English, or any major dialect
  • Holder of Valid DL or a DL that has not renewed two (2) years after the expiry date
  • Driver’s License or Appropriate Affidavit if Lost or Mutilated
  • Has no unsettled traffic violation

Benefits of Record Change for Incorrect Name

Some of the benefits associated with record change for incorrect name, include:

  • The ability to use a driver’s license to drive freely without worrying about getting caught and facing fines, penalties, and other legal repercussions.
  • A valid driver’s license is a useful government-issued photo ID that is valid almost anywhere in the Philippines.

Requirements for LTO Revision of Records: Incorrect Name

The requirements for making wea record change for incorrect name with LTO requires submission of the following documents:

  • Properly Accomplished Application for Driver’s License
  • Original Birth Certificate with Photocopy
    • PSA Authenticated Birth Certificate with Official Receipt
  • Current or Expired License
  • Affidavit of Discrepancy

If the applicant is a Muslim:

  • Affidavit of at least two (2) disinterested individuals 
  • Certification from OMA (Office of the Muslim Affairs).

Procedures for LTO Revision of Records: Incorrect Name

Changing your incorrect name in your LTO driver’s records is a straightforward process that can either be done online via the Land Transport Management System (LTMS) or in person, by making an actual visit to your preferred LTO branch

In-Person, via the LTO office

To make the change, simply follow these steps:

Step 1: Before you actually go for an LTO visit, you need to first prepare the documentary requirements for the information you wish to revise under your current LTO driver’s license. 

Step 2: Once the documents are prepared, you will then need to submit them for evaluation and wait for the transaction ID to be generated by the system so you can present it for verification and confirmation of the details.

Step 3: The Evaluator will check the authenticity and completeness of the documents, then proceed with processing the ID.

Step 4: You will need to get your photo and signature taken for the records.

Step 5: Then, you will be sent to make the payment amounting to P30.00 regardless of the number of fields revised at the cashier.

Step 6: Once payment has been processed, you will just need to wait for the new driver’s license reflecting the correct information to be released.

Online, via the LTMS portal

To update your Driver’s License record via the LTMS portal, here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Go to the Land Transport Management System (LTMS) portal at portal.lto.gov.ph.

Step 2: Log in or register for an LTMS account.

If the applicant is a new user:

  • Click the “Register Now” button.
  • Read all the terms and conditions and click the “Yes I accept” button. Then, enter the captcha code and finally click the “Next” button.
  • Select the registration type and click the “Next” button.
  • Fill in the personal details, contact number, citizenship, and type of license and click the “Submit” button.
  • The verification link is sent to the given email ID, using the link the applicant has to create the password.

If the applicant has an existing account:

  • Go to the login page and enter the email and password.
  • Click the “Sign in” button.

Step 3: Once logged in, the applicant has to select “Licensing.”

Step 4: Click “Accept” to accept the Terms of Use. 

Step 5: Select the type of license that you hold: Student Permit, Non-Professional Driver’s License, or Professional Driver’s License.

Step 6: Click Next. 

Step 7: Select Revision of Records, then click Next.

Step 8: Choose the type of records you wish to revise: Personal, Address, or Citizenship. For an incorrect name, choose Personal.

Step 9: Click Next.

Step 10: Make the change in the appropriate name field, then click Next.

Step 11: Upload one of the required documents (PSA Birth Certificate or Marriage Certificate) by clicking the Upload icon, selecting the file to upload, and clicking Save. Make sure the file doesn’t exceed the allowed maximum file size of 2046 kb. 

Step 12: Once done, click Next.

Step 13: Key in the License Number and Expiry date.

Step 14: Click Next.

Step 15: Continue with the rest of the procedures. 

Step 16: Once the application is completed and submitted, the concerned authority will check the submitted application and document set. If everything is in place, the application will be accepted.

Step 17: The application will then be processed further. All the status updates will be sent via SMS to the applicant’s mobile number or can be seen via the LTMS portal upon login.

Step 18: Once the process is completed, the applicant gets a call from the LTO for instructions on how to complete the transaction.

Step 19: If required, the applicant need to visit the office for the biometric/encoding process.

Step 20: You might need to wait for a while to get the updated permit from the office.

Important Reminders

For your reference, here are some few useful things you need to remember when requesting for record changes at the LTO:

  • It is important for all driver’s license holders to renew it before it expires to avoid paying for a higher fee.due to penalties. 
  • Failure to renew an expired driver’s license for more than two years renders it dormant. 
  • Drivers who are interested in making requests for record changes should ensure that he has no pending cases before the department. 
  • Drivers with pending cases of violations need to settle those violations first or his application for record change may not be approved.
  • This entire process can be completed within 30 days or as per the timeline advised by the respective department authority.
  • For incorrect names to be revised, the request for updating or revision of LTO records may be done online, via the LTMS portal, or in person, at an LTO branch office.
  • For requests to change incorrect last names, the drivers who are making the request may need to submit a court order authorizing such change and make a personal appearance at an LTO branch nearby. 
  • If said applicant is a Muslim, it is necessary to secure an affidavit of at least two (2) disinterested individuals and a certification from OMA (Office of the Muslim Affairs).
  • You might have to take a leave from work to get all these done (maybe more than one or two days). 
  • You will also need to prepare enough funds for the LTO fees and payments of other incidental expenses.

Video: How to Request for Revision of Records from LTO for Incorrect Names

Learn how to correct incorrect name on your driver’s license and how to request for an LTO Revision of Records by watching this video from PetChi MixTV:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For your reference, here are some of the most common questions and answers regarding the LTO Revision of Records for incorrect names:

1. Can I make the request to correct my misspelled name on my LTO Driver’s License online?

Yes. You may initiate the request online via the LTMS portal. Simply follow the instructions above to learn how to do so.

2. Can I request a revision of my misspelled name when I renew my license?

Yes. You may process the revision request upon renewal. The fees will vary though depending on the license type and the other LTO transactions you wish to do along with it. 

3. How much does the revision request for an incorrect name cost?

The fee for all types of revision of records requested at LTO is P30.00. Other additional transactions may entail additional fees.

Summary

Being a grantee of a driver’s license is a privilege under the Philippine law. Along with this privilege, the LTO also offers the provision for convenient revision of records for incorrect names. Though this requires a simple clerical correction, some cases might not always be so simple, like when it involves errors in the last name. Nevertheless, renewal and revision should not be considered as a burden, but as a way to continue enjoying the privilege of driving legally in our country and avoiding legal repercussions while doing so. Otherwise, you might be charged with a criminal offense if you are caught driving with a different name on your driver’s license. After all, LTO violations each have corresponding penalties and some of them may even lead to your license being suspended or revoked.

LTO Revision of Records: Marital Status  

Getting married is one of the milestones in a person’s life. As such, changing marital status in the Land Transportation Office (LTO) records is inevitable. However, it needs to be done to keep the records straight, especially if you are a female driver and you wish to take your husband’s name. Not only is it important when processing your LTO-related transactions, but it also ensures that you are not held accountable for violations caused by using incorrect details in your driver’s license. 

Changing the marital status on your driver’s license is a simple matter of making a request for revision of records at the LTO. Though it sounds simple enough, it’s still best to come prepared so you can avoid getting inconvenienced. 

lto revision of records change marital status

LTO Revision of Records: Change in Marital Status

Revision of records at the LTO refers to the process of  updating or revising personal records of registered or licensed drivers. Revising records to change the marital status in LTO records refers to record change due to change in marital status for those who recently got married, widowed, or legally separated. It only involves a clerical correction, so a court order is unnecessary for this kind of revision or update. You only need to initiate the request to update your personal information and submit the necessary documentation.

Nevertheless, whether it is due to a recent marriage, death, annulment, or legal separation, making sure your LTO records are updated is one way of keeping yourself safe. Plus, these personal records reflect on your driver’s license, so it’s best to make it as factual as possible to avoid any legal repercussions later on. Plus, an updated LTO profile that shows that you are hitched also offers many advantages like helping you save money through lower motor vehicle insurance rates because married drivers are seen as more financially stable and safer drivers. Aside from that, it also helps you get better and more personalized access to the Land Transport Management System (LTMS) portal for online LTO services and LTO alerts and notifications. 

Eligibility to Change Marital Status on LTO Records

Anybody who is a holder of a registered Driver’s License (DL) who recently got married, widowed, annulled, or legally separated and who wishes to update his Driver’s License Record with LTO is eligible to make this request. 

The applicant must also satisfy the following conditions:

  • Able to read and write in Filipino, English, or any major dialect
  • Holder of Valid DL or a DL that has not renewed two (2) years after the expiry date
  • Driver’s License or Appropriate Affidavit if Lost or Mutilated
  • Has no unsettled traffic violation

Benefits of Record Change for Change in Marital Status

Some of the benefits associated with record change for change in marital status, include:

  • The ability to use a driver’s license to drive freely without worrying about getting caught and facing fines, penalties, and other legal repercussions.
  • A valid driver’s license is a useful government-issued photo ID that is valid almost anywhere in the Philippines.
  • Your personal relationship status does have an impact on what you pay for your motor vehicle insurance and claims.

Requirements for LTO Revision of Records: Change in Marital Status

The requirements for making a record change for incorrect name with LTO requires submission of the following documents:

  • Properly Accomplished Application for Driver’s License (ADL) Form
  • Current or Expired License
  • Proof of change in marital status
    • Photocopy of Marriage Contract 
    • Court Order for annulled for Divorce Applicants 
    • Passport with Amendments for change in Marital Status
    • Court Order for Annulled or Divorced Applicants
    • Passport with amendments for change in Marital Status

If the applicant is a Muslim:

  • Affidavit of at least two (2) disinterested individuals 
  • Certification from OMA (Office of the Muslim Affairs).

Procedures for LTO Revision of Records: Change in Marital Status

Changing your marital status in your LTO driver’s records is just like changing a misspelled first name. It is a straightforward process that only requires clerical correction. It can be done online via the Land Transport Management System (LTMS) portal or in person, by making an actual visit to any LTO branch in the Philippines. 

In-Person, via the LTO office

To make the change, simply follow these steps:

Step 1: Before you actually go for an LTO visit, you need to first prepare the documentary requirements for the information you wish to revise under your current LTO driver’s license. 

Step 2: Once the documents are prepared, you will then need to submit them for evaluation and wait for the transaction ID to be generated by the system so you can present it for verification and confirmation of the details.

Step 3: The Evaluator will check the authenticity and completeness of the documents, then proceed with processing the ID.

Step 4: You will need to get your photo and signature taken for the records.

Step 5: Then, you will be sent to make the payment amounting to P30.00 regardless of the number of fields revised at the cashier.

Step 6: Once payment has been processed, you will just need to wait for the new driver’s license reflecting the correct information to be released.

Online, via the LTMS portal

To update your Driver’s License record via the LTMS portal, here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Go to the Land Transport Management System (LTMS) portal at portal.lto.gov.ph.

Step 2: Log in or register for an LTMS account.

If the applicant is a new user:

  • Click the “Register Now” button.
  • Read all the terms and conditions and click the “Yes I accept” button. Then, enter the captcha code and finally click the “Next” button.
  • Select the registration type and click the “Next” button.
  • Fill in the personal details, contact number, citizenship, and type of license and click the “Submit” button.
  • The verification link is sent to the given email ID, using the link the applicant has to create the password.

If the applicant has an existing account:

  • Go to the login page and enter the email and password.
  • Click the “Sign in” button.

Step 3: Once logged in, the applicant has to select “Licensing.”

Step 4: Click “Accept” to accept the Terms of Use. 

Step 5: Select the type of license that you hold: Student Permit, Non-Professional Driver’s License, or Professional Driver’s License.

Step 6: Click Next. 

Step 7: Select Revision of Records, then click Next.

Step 8: Choose the type of records you wish to revise: Personal, Address, or Citizenship. For change in marital status, choose Personal.

Step 9: Click Next.

Step 10: Make the change in the appropriate field, then click Next.

Step 11: Upload one of the required documents (PSA Birth Certificate or Marriage Certificate) by clicking the Upload icon, selecting the file to upload, and clicking Save. Make sure the file doesn’t exceed the allowed maximum file size of 2046 kb. 

Step 12: Once done, click Next.

Step 13: Key in the License Number and Expiry date.

Step 14: Click Next.

Step 15: Continue with the rest of the procedures. 

Step 16: Once the application is completed and submitted, the concerned authority will check the submitted application and document set. If everything is in place, the application will be accepted.

Step 17: The application will then be processed further. All the status updates will be sent via SMS to the applicant’s mobile number or can be seen via the LTMS portal upon login.

Step 18: Once the process is completed, the applicant gets a call from the LTO for instructions on how to complete the transaction.

Step 19: If required, the applicant need to visit the office for the biometric/encoding process.

Step 20: You might need to wait for a while to get the updated permit from the office.

Important Reminders

In this section are some useful tips you need to remember when requesting for record changes, especially for a change in marital status, at the LTO:

  • Making a request to update marital status via the LTMS portal only requires a Marriage Contract and a PSA Birth Certificate, depending on the status you are changing it to.
  • Drivers who are interested in making requests for record changes should ensure that he has no pending cases before the department. 
  • Drivers with pending cases of violations need to settle those first or his application for record change may not be approved.
  • This entire process can be completed within 30 days or as per the timeline advised by the respective department authority.
  • Updating of marital status can be done online, via the LTMS portal, or in person, at an LTO branch office.
  • If the applicant is a Muslim, it is necessary to secure an affidavit of at least two (2) disinterested individuals and a certification from OMA (Office of the Muslim Affairs).
  • You might have to take a leave from work to get all these done (maybe more than one or two days), if you’re visiting a busy LTO office. 
  • It’s best to check with your preferred branch if they require an LTO appointment or if they accept walk-ins.
  • You will need to prepare enough funds for the LTO fees and payments of other incidental expenses.

Video: How to Request for Revision of Records from LTO for Changes in Marital Status

You can learn how to update the marital status stated on your driver’s license as well as the process of making a request for an LTO Revision of Records and the requirements to do so from this video posted by The Everett’s Academe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For your reference, here are some of the most common questions and answers regarding the change in marital status at the LTO:

1. Can I make the request to update my marital status and change my name on my LTO Driver’s License online and at the same time?

Yes. You may initiate the request online via the LTMS portal. Just log into your LTMS account and follow the steps to complete the record change.

2. Can I update my marital status when I renew my license?

Yes. You may process the record change upon license renewal. The documentary requirements and the LTO fees will vary depending on the license type and the other LTO transactions you wish to do along with it. 

3. How much does the revision request for an incorrect name cost?

The LTO fee for all types of revision of records including changing your marital status is set at P30.00. Other additional transactions may entail additional fees.

Summary

As a privileged citizen who has been granted a driver’s license or the privilege to drive on public roads, it is your responsibility to ensure that your public records are well-maintained. As an agency that continues to move forward with modernization, the LTO strives for convenience in offering its services, which includes the revision of records. Though changing the marital status on your LTO records requires a simple clerical correction, some cases might not always be so simple, especially for those who have divorced or annulled their marriage. Nevertheless, renewal and revision of license details should not be considered as a burden, but as a way to continue enjoying the privilege of driving legally. After all, being married has its own perks, even when it comes to conducting business at an LTO office.

error: Content is protected !!