Some might still be unaware, but Filipinos can now obtain a license with a longer validity of 10 years.
A new law in the Philippines, the Republic Act 10930, was passed back in 2017, which now allows motorists in the country to apply for a driver’s license within a 10-year valid period. But not every individual is eligible to get one, as there are several requirements they need to meet before they can do so.
New requirements regarding license validity have also been announced by the Land Transportation Office (LTO). But do not worry because, in this article, we will guide you on how to get a driver’s license with 10-year validity.
Who are qualified to get a 10-year driver’s license?
Depending on your behavior on the road and your driving record, you can apply for a 10-year driver’s license. You can find out if you are eligible by checking your driving record. You are good to go if you do not violate any traffic laws or have received any tickets.
However, if you are uncertain whether or not you have disciplinary points, you can check the LTMS Portal to find out. During the registration process, you will need to enter your license number, expiry date, and DL serial number, all found on your license card.
Suppose you want to qualify for this extended (10-year) driver’s license validity. In that case, your driving record must be clean or have no violation record. Keep in mind that they can be very strict about this.
The 10-year license requirement is essential for several reasons. One is encouraging those who are good at driving to keep doing so. The government, after all, wants to promote road safety and ensure that people adhere to traffic laws and regulations.
You must settle for the standard 5-year validity period if you already have a record.
How to get a 10-year driver’s license?
Taking a comprehensive driving course will help you improve your driving skills.
Those applying for or renewing their driver’s license will now be required to take Comprehensive Driver’s Education (CDE), whether they have 10-year or five-year validity.
Depending on your preference, you can attend the CDE seminar online or on-site. There are several options for the course, accessible at a Driver Education Center or for a fee in a school that the LTO has accredited. There can be written and video components as many as five hours of material covered during the seminars.
Upon completing the seminar, you must pass a written examination. It is an exam consisting of 25 questions regarding the rules and regulations governing traffic in the Philippines. It would be best to go to the LTMS Portal, sign up, get your materials for the CDE exam, and take it. Those who fail the exam do not fret betake it to attempt it again until they pass.
Once you’ve passed the exam, you’ll be awarded the CDE certification via email, which will be sent to you as soon as you pass the exam. Remember to have the form printed out and take it along with you when you arrive at the LTO office.
Obtain a medical certificate
Clinics and physicians accredited by the LTO can provide you with a medical certificate. This one is relatively easy to obtain in comparison with the previous requirement. The LTO office is close to an accredited clinic, so getting this done on your way there might be more accessible.Â
In this link, you can check the list of qualified clinics if you want to book an appointment in advance.Â
You will only have to pay about Php500 for a medical certificate. This is because they will only do a few tests on you, like checking your vision and taking your weight and height.
LTO On-Site
Do not fret because when you reach LTO, you will be guided. Upon reaching LTO, your details will be presented to you for checking. You only need to wait a short time for the new license after confirmation, after which you will have the privilege of holding it for ten years straight away.
How much does it cost to get a 10-year license?
Although the validity and the requirement for a CDE certificate have been pushed back, the application process remains essentially the same. This is also true of the number of fees you must pay.Â
The validity of the license has indeed been extended, and you’re required to obtain a CDE certificate. However, everything remains the same regarding the application process and the fees you must pay. Here is an estimate of the costs you will need to pay.
- Comprehensive Driver’s Education: Free (LTO)
- Medical exam: Php500
- License cost: Php585
- Computer charge: Php67
- Application rate: Php100
- Additional computer charge: Php67
This means you have to pay a total of Php820.
READ ALSO: How to Register an E-Bike in LTO
