Losing your LTO driver’s license while abroad can be stressful—especially since it means losing a trusted proof of identity along with the legal right to drive—both in the Philippines and in most foreign countries. Unfortunately, if your driver’s license goes missing while overseas, you cannot immediately get a replacement from the Land Transportation Office (LTO). You’ll have to wait until you return home to start the legal process of getting a replacement and avoid any potential problems such as difficulty renewing your license, delays in future applications, or even being penalized if you get caught driving without one.
But don’t worry—there’s a clear process to follow to protect yourself legally and prepare for replacement once you return home.
What To Do When You Lose Your License Abroad
Here’s a simple, practical guide on what you need to do in case it happens.
While You’re Still Abroad
Step 1. Do not drive without your physical license.
Even if you still have a photocopy, screenshot, or e-license, you cannot legally drive using these abroad or in the Philippines. Many countries require you to present your original license if asked by authorities. Driving without it can lead to fines, penalties, or even arrest depending on local laws. Safety and legal compliance should always come first, especially when you are so far away from home.
Step 2. Report the loss to local authorities.
Go to the nearest police station and file an official police report. This document will serve as proof that your license was lost, which you’ll need when you later apply for a replacement at the LTO. It’s best to ask for a copy of the report, so you’ll have something that you can use as a supporting document when you return to the country.
Step 3. Check local driving rules or use an International Driving Permit (IDP).
If you had previously obtained an International Driving Permit (IDP) from the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) before leaving the country, then you can use it as a temporary substitute while abroad. Just make sure that the local laws allow its use even without your original license, lest you get into trouble. You can also check if it is possible to secure a temporary foreign license using your passport and visa.
Note: An IDP translates your Philippine license into multiple languages and is recognized in over 150 countries. However, it’s usually valid only if presented with your original license—so it won’t replace your lost license.
Once You Return to the Philippines
You can only process your replacement LTO driver’s license after you return home. Here’s what you need to do upon your return:
Step 1. Prepare an Affidavit of Loss.
Go to a lawyer or notary public and have an Affidavit of Loss prepared and notarized. Include important details such as how and where you lost your license, as well as the date, place, and circumstances of the loss. Make sure your information matches your valid ID to avoid processing delays.
Step 2. Gather the required documents.
Before visiting the LTO, prepare the following:
- Notarized Affidavit of Loss
- One (1) valid government-issued ID (with your photo and signature)
- Police report (if available)
- Optional: Copy of your Official Receipt/Certificate of Registration (OR/CR) if you’re a vehicle owner
Step 3. Visit any LTO Office.
You can go to any LTO branch in the Philippines—no need to visit the one where your original license was issued. You can then process a replacement request there.
In many cases, you can get your replacement within the same day. However, processing time may vary depending on the branch and volume of applicants.
Video: Replacement of Lost Driver’s License
Losing your LTO driver’s license abroad doesn’t mean losing your right to drive forever—it just takes proper documentation and patience. You can always process a replacement request when you return to the Philippines. For a visual walkthrough of the proper replacement process for your lost license, you may check out this video below: