Traveling to a new country is an exciting adventure, but it can also bring a mix of emotions of curiosity, excitement, and caution. As a foreign citizen navigating through unfamiliar roads, it’s natural to feel a sense of unease when you place your trust in someone behind the wheel. What if the driver takes an unknown route? What if there’s a language barrier? What if you end up paying far more than you should for transportation?

Fortunately, there’s a simple solution to ease your worries and take control of your travel experience! By converting your foreign driver’s license to a Philippine driver’s license, you not only save money on transportation costs, but you also gain the confidence of driving legally in the country while removing any doubts about the reliability of your ride. This freedom opens up endless possibilities to explore the Philippines at your own pace, all while ensuring that you stay safe and secure on your journey.

What is the Difference between a Foreign Driver’s License and a Philippine Driver’s License?

From its name, a foreign driver’s license is issued to foreign nationals from their home country. Holders of this license are authorized to drive for ninety (90) days in the Philippines. If you wish to drive in the country after its validation period, you need to convert your foreign license to a Philippine driver’s license. 

On the other hand, a Philippine driver’s license is issued to foreigners and Filipinos, allowing them to drive in the country legally. It can be renewed after ten (10) years for drivers without traffic violations and five (5) years for drivers with traffic violations. 

What are the Classifications of LTO Driver’s License?

There are three (3) classifications of driver’s license currently issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in the Philippines:

Student Permit

In the Philippines, every driver is required to go through a “student” phase to learn how to drive and the traffic rules. Student permit holders are only allowed to drive a vehicle in public with the guidance of a non-professional or professional licensed driver. 

To secure this permit, you must be at least eighteen (18) years old, physically and mentally stable, and can speak and understand English and Tagalog.

Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL)

After a month of having a student permit, you may now apply for a Non-Professional Driver’s License. This allows individuals to drive their private or personal vehicles. It is also designed for drivers who have no intention of driving a public vehicle or any motor vehicle for a living. 

To secure this license, you must pass the written examination and submit the requirements, such as your valid student permit for at least a month old, medical certificate, negative drug test result, NBI clearance, and other necessary documents. 

Professional Driver’s License (PDL)

If you are pursuing a career in driving, you must secure a Professional Driver’s License. To secure this license, you must be at least eighteen (18) years old and submit the requirements, such as medical certificate, negative drug test result, NBI clearance, and other necessary documents. You will also be required to pass a written examination.

Other Driver’s License

Unlike the driver’s licenses mentioned above, International Driver’s License (IDL) is not issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO). This license is given to permanent residents in the Philippines to be able to drive a vehicle legally in over 150 other countries in the world. 

However, it can’t be used in Australia and Spain since Filipino drivers who have non-professional or professional driver’s licenses are allowed to drive vehicles in these countries. 

To secure this license, you must submit two (2) photocopies of your current driver’s license and two (2) 2×2 pictures with white background, and other necessary documents. 

What are the Qualifications for Converting a Foreign Driver’s License to Philippine Driver’s License?

To qualify for the conversion of a foreign driver’s license to a local license, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Physically and mentally fit to drive
  • Can read and write in English, Filipino, and/or any dialect
  • Have a valid foreign driver’s license
  • Have not violated any traffic regulations
  • Have a valid visa for at least 120 days upon the date of arrival in the Philippines
  • Have passed the Theoretical Examination and Practical Driving Test, if foreign driver’s license is expired
  • Have passed the practical examination, if from a country operating right hand drive vehicles

What are the Driver’s License Requirements for Foreigners in the Philippines?

When applying for the conversion of foreign driver’s license into a local driver’s license, the following requirements must be submitted:

  • Duly accomplished Application for Permits and Licenses (APL) Form
  • Electronically transmitted medical certificate from LTO accredited medical clinic
  • Original copy and photocopy of Medical Certificate
  • Negative drug test result from Department of Health (DOH) or LTO-accredited drug testing center or hospital
  • Original and photocopy of valid Foreign Driver’s License, with official English translation if license is not in English 
  • Original and photocopy of valid passport showing the first page, visa page and latest date entry in the Philippines
  • Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), if employed
  • Additional documents

How to Get a Philippine Driver’s License for Foreigners?

To convert your driver’s license to a Philippine Driver’s License, you may apply in-person or via online.

In-Person Driver’s License Application Process

  • Fill Out Application Form. Visit the nearest Land Transportation Office (LTO) office and request for the Application for Permits and License (APL) Form and fill out the required information.
  • Secure Queue Number. Secure a queue number and wait for your turn.
  • Submit Requirements. Once your number has been called, submit the APL Form along with the required documents.
  • Pay Fees. If your documents have been approved, pay the necessary fees at the cashier.
  • Take Examination. For a non-professional driver license examination, you must score 30 out of 40. While for a professional driver license examination, you must score 45 out of 60. If you failed to pass the written examination, you may retake it again next time. If passed, you will take the practical driving test. 
  • Test Result. After taking the practical driving test, wait for the result. If failed, you may take the written examination and driving test after a month (for first time takers), a year (for second time takers), or two years (for third time takers). If passed, pay the necessary fees and process to the encoding and biometric window.
  • Encode and Signature. Fill out the form for encoding to get it entered in the new LTO-IT system (LTMS Portal). Get your photo taken and affix your signature.
  • Issuance of Driver License. After accomplishing those, your Official Receipt and Driver’s License card will be given to you. Once received, sign the release form and the LTO log sheet. 

Online Driver’s License Application Process

  • Register or Log In Account. Visit the official Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) portal website. If you don’t have an account, you will be asked to register and fill out the needed information to create an LTMS portal account. If you already have an account, you may proceed by logging in your account.
  • Read and Accept Terms of Use. Once logged in, click on the Licensing icon on the Dashboard menu options. Read and accept the Terms of Use.
  • Fill Out and Upload Documents. In the Licensing section, select the type of license you have. Fill out the required information and upload the necessary documents.
  • Set Appointment. Select your preferred date, time and Land Transportation Office (LTO) branch for appointment.
  • Pay Fees. Once the application has been confirmed, pay the application fee and wait for the Official Receipt sent on your email.
  • Attend on Appointment. On your appointment, visit your preferred LTO branch and present your paid transaction with the required documents.
  • Biometric Capture. Secure a queue number and wait for your turn. When your number is called, proceed to the Client Service Officer (CSO) window for biometric capturing.
  • Take Examination. Proceed to the examination area and take the theoretical exam.
  • Driving Test. If you passed the theoretical exam, proceed to take the actual driving test and wait for the result.
  • Issuance of Driver’s License. If you passed the driving test, pay the required fees and get your Philippine Driver’s License. Don’t forget to sign the release form and the LTO log sheet. 

Can You Use Your US Driver’s License in the Philippines?

Yes, you can use your US driver’s license in the Philippines. However, you will only be allowed to use it for ninety (90) days. If you wish to drive in the Philippines after its validation, you will be required to convert your driver’s license into a Philippine driver’s license to drive legally. Not obeying this rule could result in legal consequences, such as deportation. 

Can I Lend My Driver’s License?

No, you can’t lend your driver’s license no matter how close you are to the person and in any circumstance. You can’t also borrow someone’s driver’s license. A driver’s license is a legally binding document that confirms your identity and authorizes you to drive or operate a vehicle. Borrowing or lending someone’s license can lead to serious consequences, such as fines, suspension or revocation of the license.

Why Should You Convert Your Foreign Driver’s License to a Philippine Driver’s License?

A Philippine driver’s license is required when you are planning to drive in the country after the 90-day validation of your driver’s license. Converting your foreign driver’s license to a local license offers numerous benefits, including:

Legal Compliance

Driving with a foreign license beyond the allowed period is illegal and can result in fines, penalties, or even the confiscation of your vehicle.

Long-Term Stay

If you’re residing or staying in the country for an extended period, a Philippine driver’s license is essential for convenience and legal compliance.

Insurance and Registration

Most insurance companies and vehicle registration authorities require a Philippine driver’s license for coverage and registration purposes.

Employment

Some jobs in the Philippines, particularly those involving driving, may require a Philippine driver’s license.

Identification

A Philippine driver’s license can serve as your valid ID while in the country.

Local Knowledge

The application process for a Philippine driver’s license involves a written and practical examination, which can help you familiarize with local traffic rules and regulations.

Emergency Situations

In the event of an accident or traffic violation, having a Philippine driver’s license can simplify interactions with law enforcement and insurance companies.

Car Rentals

Many car rental companies in the Philippines require a Philippine driver’s license for rentals.

Need further information and assistance regarding Convert Foreign Driver’s License to Philippine Driver’s License? Talk to our team at Duran & Duran-Schulze Law in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Philippines to know more about the requirements and process. Call us today at (+632) 8478 5826 or +63 917 194 0482, or send an email to info@duranschulze.com for more information.