Learning to drive in the Philippines starts with one essential document—the LTO Student-Driver’s Permit. Whether you’re a Filipino planning to begin your driving journey or a foreigner staying in the country, securing this permit is your first legal step toward becoming a licensed driver.
For Americans visiting or relocating to the Philippines—such as retirees, long-term travelers, digital nomads, or expats—understanding how the Student-Driver’s Permit works is helpful for navigating local transportation rules and ensuring compliance with RA 4136, the Philippine Land Transportation and Traffic Code.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about getting an LTO Student-Driver’s Permit (Walk-In), including requirements, fees, eligibility, and the complete step-by-step process.
What Is the LTO Student-Driver’s Permit?
A Student-Driver’s Permit is a temporary privilege issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO), allowing a person to learn how to operate motor vehicles on public roads under supervision.
This document is not yet a full driver’s license, but it is required before you can take the Practical Driving Course and later apply for a Non-Professional Driver’s License.
Who Can Apply?
You may avail of the Student-Driver’s Permit if you meet the following qualifications:
For Filipino Citizens
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At least 16 years old
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Physically and mentally fit to drive
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Can read and write in Filipino or English
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Must have completed the 15-hour Theoretical Driving Course (TDC)
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No unsettled traffic violations
For Foreign Nationals
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At least 18 years old
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Must have stayed in the Philippines for at least one (1) month, with proof of intent to stay for at least six (6) months
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Must present passport with valid entry and visa duration
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If born in the Philippines, a PSA-authenticated birth certificate is required
Why This Matters for Americans
Many Americans travel or stay long-term in the Philippines for business, retirement, or lifestyle reasons. Driving independently gives more mobility—especially in areas with limited public transport like the provinces, beaches, and developing areas outside Manila.
Knowing the rules helps avoid fines and ensures that you are legally allowed to drive during your stay.
Checklist of Requirements (2025 Updated)
Here are the official documents you must prepare for walk-in processing:
1. Accomplished APL Form (Application for Permits and Licenses)
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Available via LTO website or at the office
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1 original copy
2. Medical Certificate
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Must be electronically transmitted from an LTO-accredited clinic
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Bring original and 1 photocopy
3. Proof of Identity (any of the following)
Bring original + photocopy of one:
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PSA/NSO Birth Certificate
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Philippine National ID (PhilID)
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Passport
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Local Civil Registry certificate (if no PSA office in area)
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PSA Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
4. Parent/Guardian Consent (for minors under 18)
Must include:
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Signed consent letter
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Original + photocopy of a valid government-issued ID with photo and signature
5. Applicant’s Valid ID (with photo & signature)
Examples:
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PhilHealth ID
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SSS/UMID
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TIN ID
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Postal ID
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Voter’s ID
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School ID
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Company ID
6. Additional Requirements for Foreign Nationals
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Passport with entry stamp of at least 1 month
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Visa valid for 6 months from date of application
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PSA birth certificate if born in the Philippines
7. Certificate of Completion – Theoretical Driving Course (15 hours)
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Original + photocopy
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Issued by LTO-accredited driving school, DEC, or TESDA center
8. LTO Client ID
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Electronic copy from the LTO Public Portal
Situational Requirement
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TIN (Taxpayer Identification Number) for employed applicants
LTO Walk-In Application Process: Step-by-Step
Here is the complete and updated flow for getting your Student-Driver’s Permit (Walk-In):
Step 1: Get a Queue Number
Go to the Client Service Assistant (CSA) or PACD window.
Processing time: 1 minute
Step 2: Wait for Your Number to Be Called
Processing time: 1 minute
Step 3: Submit Requirements
Proceed to the Client Service Officer (CSO) window:
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Submit APL Form
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Submit all required documents
LTO will:
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Validate document authenticity
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Encode your information
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Upload documents
Processing time: 30 minutes
Step 4: Pay Fees at the Cashier
Standard Fees:
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Student Permit Fee: ₱150
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Application Fee: ₱100
TOTAL: ₱250
Processing time: 50 minutes
Step 5: Biometric Capturing
You will be called for:
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Photo
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Fingerprints
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Signature
Processing time: 15 minutes
Step 6: Claim Your Student-Driver’s Permit
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Sign the log sheet
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Receive your printed permit
Processing time: 15 minutes
Validity of the Student-Driver’s Permit
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Valid for 1 year
– After this period, it can no longer be used for the Practical Driving Course. -
Can be used to apply for a Non-Professional License
– Only if you completed your PDC within the permit’s validity. -
After 2 years, you must apply for a new permit, keeping the same permit number.
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Student Permit may be renewed with basic fees only (except for unsettled traffic penalties).
Total Processing Time and Fees
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Total Time: Around 1 hour and 53 minutes
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Total Cost: ₱250
Whether you’re a young Filipino eager to learn driving or a US citizen planning a long-term stay in the Philippines, obtaining an LTO Student-Driver’s Permit is your first major step toward safer and legal driving.
With the right requirements and a clear understanding of the walk-in process, getting the permit is straightforward, affordable, and aligned with the country’s goal of improving road safety and responsible driving.