📍 Step 1: Get a Student Driver’s Permit
✅ Qualifications:
- At least 16 years old
- Physically and mentally fit to drive
- Able to read and write in Filipino or English
- Must have parental/guardian consent (for minors)
📋 Requirements:
- Original and photocopy of Birth Certificate (PSA or Local Civil Registrar)
- Valid ID with photo and signature
- Medical Certificate from an LTO-accredited clinic
- Certificate of Completion of Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) – 15 hours (issued by an LTO or LTO-accredited driving school)
💰 Fees:
- ₱100 for the Student Permit
- ₱167.63 for application and computer fees (subject to updates)
📍 Step 2: Take the Theoretical Driving Course (TDC)
Before getting your student permit, you must first complete the 15-hour TDC, which covers:
- Traffic laws and road signs
- Road courtesy and safety
- Basic vehicle maintenance
- Land Transportation Office (LTO) policies
🧠 Tip: You’ll take a written exam after the course. Review the LTO Driver’s Handbook to prepare.
📍 Step 3: Start Driving Practice
You can now drive with a licensed non-professional or professional driver beside you. This is your time to learn and practice.
🕒 Validity: The Student Permit is valid for 1 year but you can apply for the next license after 1 month.
📍 Step 4: Take the Practical Driving Course (PDC)
To apply for a Professional Driver’s License, you must complete an 8-hour Practical Driving Course (per vehicle type you want to drive).
✔️ This is done through an LTO or an LTO-accredited driving school.
You’ll receive a PDC Certificate, which you must submit when applying for your next license.
📍 Step 5: Apply for a Professional Driver’s License
📋 Requirements:
- Valid Student Permit (at least 1 month old)
- Medical Certificate from an LTO-accredited clinic
- Certificate of Completion of Practical Driving Course (PDC)
- Valid ID
- Drug Test (may be required depending on location or LTO office)
👥 For Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) Drivers:
- NBI/Police Clearance
- TESDA NC III (for some vehicle types)
- PAMI or CPTPO Insurance (depending on the purpose)
🧪 Exams:
- Written exam (Driving Fundamentals, Traffic Signs, Situational Judgment)
- Practical Driving Test (actual driving on the road)
🧠 Tip: Make sure you’re confident with your driving skills and knowledge of traffic rules.
💳 Fees and Charges:
- Application Fee: ₱100
- Computer Fee: ₱67.63
- License Fee: ₱585
- Additional fees for PDC, Medical, and Insurance depending on location and provider
🎯 License Validity:
- Valid for 5 years
- Can be renewed with no violations for up to 10 years
🔄 Summary Flow:
- ✅ Take TDC → 📝 Apply for Student Permit
- 🚗 Practice Driving for at least 1 month
- ✅ Take PDC
- 📝 Apply for Professional License
- 🧠 Pass the exams
- 🎉 Get your Pro License
🔔 Reminders:
- Always carry your permit or license while driving.
- You can apply for multiple license codes depending on the type of vehicle (e.g., motorcycle, light vehicle, truck).
- A Professional License allows you to drive for compensation or livelihood.
💬 Thinking of upgrading your license or becoming a PUV driver? Let me know your questions in the comments and I’ll be happy to help you through the process!