Adding Driver’s License (DL) codes online through the LTMS (Land Transportation Management System) portal simplifies the process for drivers looking to expand their driving privileges. This method is often preferred over visiting an LTO branch due to its convenience, allowing applicants to complete the process from home. The online platform reduces queueing and wait times, streamlining documentation submission and minimizing the hassle associated with physical visits. Additionally, the portal enhances accessibility and transparency, enabling applicants to track their application status and stay informed throughout the process.
Adding DL codes increases the range of vehicles you are authorized to operate under your existing license, covering categories such as motorcycles, cars, trucks, and buses. Each code requires specific skills and qualifications, validating your competence to drive various vehicles and ensuring compliance with legal requirements. This article ”How to Add DL Codes Using the LTMS Portal” guide outlines the steps, requirements, and considerations needed to efficiently add DL codes through the LTMS portal, ensuring a smooth experience for applicants.
What Are DL Codes?
DL codes are alphanumeric designations used by the LTO (Land Transportation Office) to categorize the types of vehicles a driver is authorized to operate, replacing the previous numerical restriction codes. These codes specify vehicle categories, ranging from motorcycles to heavy vehicles, and correspond to specific Vehicle Category codes that detail permissible types based on characteristics such as weight, seating capacity, and configuration.
Understanding DL codes is essential for drivers to comply with legal regulations and avoid penalties for operating vehicles outside their authorized categories. This knowledge helps prevent fines, charges, and potential vehicle impoundment. Additionally, familiarity with DL codes is important during the renewal process for the new 10-year validity license, reflecting a driver’s adherence to licensing regulations and safe driving practices.
DL Code Types
Here’s a list of DL codes, their corresponding category codes, and the equivalent vehicle types:
DL Code A
Vehicle Category Codes: L1, L2, L3
Equivalent Vehicle Type: Motorcycles
DL Code A1
Vehicle Category Codes: L4, L5, L6, L7
Equivalent Vehicle Type: Tricycles (Motorcycle with Sidecar) and Three-Wheeled Symmetrically Arranged Vehicles
DL Code B
Vehicle Category Codes: M1
Equivalent Vehicle Type: Passenger Cars (Up to 8 seats and GVW not exceeding 5000 kg)
DL Code B1
Vehicle Category Codes: M2
Equivalent Vehicle Type: Passenger Vans or Jeepneys (More than 8 seats and GVW less than 5000 kg)
DL Code B2
Vehicle Category Codes: N1
Equivalent Vehicle Type: Light Commercial Vehicles (GVW not exceeding 3500 kg)
DL Code C
Vehicle Category Codes: N2, N3
Equivalent Vehicle Type: Heavy Commercial Vehicles (GVW exceeding 3500 kg)
DL Code D
Vehicle Category Code: M3
Equivalent Vehicle Type: Passenger Buses (More than 8 seats and GVW more than 5000 kg)
Equivalent Vehicle Type: Heavy Articulated Vehicles (With higher GVW and articulated structures)
Understanding these DL codes and their corresponding vehicle categories is essential for compliance with licensing regulations and ensuring safe driving practices.
Adding DL Codes to Your Driver’s License
Adding DL codes to your driver’s license allows you to expand the types of vehicles you are permitted to drive, enhancing your driving versatility while ensuring compliance with legal requirements and safety standards. This process can involve upgrading to handle larger vehicles or adding specialized endorsements, such as for transporting hazardous materials. By facilitating the addition of new vehicle types, it validates your expanded driving abilities.
To add DL codes, you must meet specific criteria and may need to undergo additional training. The LTMS portal simplifies this process by providing clear guidelines and documentation requirements. Whether you’re adding motorcycle privileges or upgrading to drive commercial trucks or buses, the portal ensures a structured approach to acquiring and validating your expanded driving capabilities, making the transition seamless and efficient.
Benefits of Adding DL Codes to Your License Using the LTMS Portal
Using the LTO LTMS Portal to add DL codes to your license offers several significant benefits:
Convenience: The portal allows you to complete the DL code addition process online, eliminating the need for physical visits to LTO branches. This saves time and effort, as you can access the portal from anywhere with an internet connection.
Streamlined Application Process: The LTMS portal provides clear guidance on required documents and steps, reducing the likelihood of errors or delays in processing. This ensures a smoother experience for applicants.
Accessibility: You can schedule appointments, submit documents, and track your application’s progress at your convenience. This feature facilitates better planning and organization, allowing efficient management of your DL code addition.
Transparency: The portal keeps you informed about the status of your application and any additional requirements, enhancing trust and confidence in the system.
Safety: By reducing the need for in-person visits, especially during public health concerns, the LTMS portal helps prioritize safety and minimizes exposure to health risks.
Regulatory Compliance: Using the official LTMS Portal ensures adherence to LTO regulations and standards, reducing the likelihood of issues related to incorrect procedures or documentation.
Overall, leveraging the LTMS portal for adding DL codes offers a user-friendly, efficient, and secure way to manage your driving privileges, aligning with modern digital practices and enhancing the overall experience for drivers.
Who May Add DL Codes Online Via the LTMS Portal
To add DL codes online through the LTMS Portal, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria:
Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
Literacy: Must be able to read and write in Filipino and/or English.
Fitness: Must be physically and mentally fit to operate a motor vehicle.
Traffic Violations: Must not have unsettled traffic violations. The prohibition period for adding DL codes based on demerit points is as follows:
1–2 demerit points: 3 months
3–4 demerit points: 6 months
5 or more demerit points: 1 year
Examinations: Must have passed the Automated Theoretical Examination and Practical Driving Test.
Specific Requirements Based on License Type and Desired DL Code:
RC 1 / DL Codes A or A1: Must hold a DL.
RC 2 or 4 / DL Codes B, B1, or B2: Must hold a DL.
RC 3 or 5 / DL Codes C: Must have held PDL Code B2 (RC 2) for at least 4 years.
RC 3 or 5 / DL Codes D: Must have held PDL Code B1 (RC 2) for at least 4 years.
RC 6 or 7 / DL Codes BE: Must have held B, B1, or B2 (RC 2) for at least 3 years.
RC 8 / DL Codes CE: Must have held C or D (RC 3) for at least 6 months.
Special Purpose Vehicles: Must hold a professional driver’s license corresponding to the DL code operated and comply with required training upon renewal. Must also have passed the necessary examinations.
Meeting these criteria ensures that applicants are qualified to safely and legally operate a broader range of vehicles.
Documentary Requirements for Adding DL Codes Online via the LTMS Portal
When adding DL codes online, applicants must prepare the following documents:
Application for Permits and Licenses (APL) Form: Duly accomplished form.
Medical Certificate:
An electronically transmitted medical certificate from an LTO-accredited medical clinic.
One photocopy of the medical certificate, with the original presented.
Specific Requirements Based on License Type and DL Codes:
DL Code A or A1: If the holder of A/A1, no additional requirements needed.
DL Code B, B1, or B2: If the holder of B, B1/B2, no additional requirements needed.
DL Code C: Must have completed equivalent training from an LTO-accredited TESDA Training Center for Driving (Straight Truck/Passenger Bus) NC III or have a Professional Driver’s Certificate (PDC) from a driving school before applying.
DL Code D: Same as for DL Code C.
DL Code BE: Must have completed equivalent training from an LTO-accredited TESDA Training Center or have a PDC from a driving school, or be a holder of DL Code CE (RC 8).
DL Code CE: Must have completed equivalent training from an LTO-accredited TESDA Training Center for Driving (Articulated) NC III or have a PDC from a driving school.
Ensuring all required documents are ready will facilitate a smoother application process for adding DL codes.
Procedures for Adding DL Codes Online via the LTMS Portal
Adding DL codes online through the LTMS Portal involves several steps:
Prepare Your Device: Ensure a stable internet connection and a compatible web browser.
Access the LTMS Portal: Search for “LTMS LTO” or go directly to the official LTMS portal website.
Log In: Enter your registered email or LTO Client ID and password. If you don’t have an account, click “Register” to create one.
Navigate to Licensing: Once logged in, click on the Licensing icon in the Dashboard menu.
Accept Terms of Use: Read and accept the Terms of Use.
Select License Type: Choose your license type (Driver’s or Conductor’s License) and click Next.
Choose Transaction: Select “Additional Code or Category” from the available transactions.
Complete Application: Fill out the required fields and upload necessary documents.
Appointment Selection: Choose your preferred LTO branch and appointment date/time.
Review Application: Check all details for accuracy before submission.
Payment Mode: Select your preferred payment method.
Confirmation: Wait for application confirmation and proceed to payment.
Payment: Pay the application fee and wait for the Official Receipt via email.
Visit LTO Branch: On the appointment date, visit the selected LTO branch with your paid transaction and documents.
Get Queue Number: Obtain a queue number upon arrival.
Processing Update: Wait for your number to be called for biometric capturing.
Take Theoretical Exam: Proceed to the examination area and take the theoretical exam.
Exam Result:
If you fail, you may re-apply the next working day.
If you pass, continue to the driving test.
Driving Test: Take the actual driving test (not required for change of classification of a valid NPDL).
Exam Results:
If you fail the practical exam, you can retake it after 7 days (with a fee).
If you pass, wait for your name to be called for payment.
Payment for DL: Pay the necessary fees at the cashier.
Receive Official Receipt: Wait for the OR to be issued.
Collect Updated DL: Present the OR to collect your updated permit/driver’s license.
Sign Log Sheet: Sign in the log sheet and claim your updated DL card.
By following these steps, you can efficiently add DL codes to your license through the LTMS portal.
Fees and Processing Time for Adding DL Codes
When adding DL codes via the LTMS Portal, applicants should be aware of the following fees:
Here’s the information in table form:
Fee Description
Amount (₱)
Application Fee
100.00
Computer Fee
67.63
License Fee
585.00
Theoretical Driving Course (TDC)
1,500.00
TDC Certificate
200.00
Medical Certificate
300.00
Total Estimated Fees
2,802.63
Processing Time
The processing time for adding DL codes can vary based on the specifics of the transaction. Generally, the LTO processing time includes waiting periods and begins upon submission of complete requirements. Here are some estimated times:
Transaction Type
Estimated Time
Change Classification with Delinquent License, Renewal with Examination and/or Additional DL Codes
4 hours, 25 minutes
Change Classification with Same DL Code
3 hours, 25 minutes
Video: How to Add DL Codes to Your License
For a visual walkthrough that details all the requirements, procedures, and fees associated with adding DL codes to your driver’s license, you might want to watch this video from Responsible and Law Abiding Driver:
This video provides step-by-step guidance to help you navigate the process smoothly.
Important Reminders
Not all LTO branches handle LTMS transactions; verify which branches do.
Adding DL codes can occur during license renewal or other transactions, but each may incur separate fees.
Processing times may extend if combined with other LTO transactions.
Prepare and duplicate all documentary requirements in advance to avoid delays.
Summary
The LTMS Portal simplifies the addition of DL codes, allowing eligible applicants to expand their driving privileges efficiently. By following the outlined procedures, submitting necessary documentation, and understanding the associated fees and processing times, drivers can ensure a smooth experience while complying with legal standards and enhancing their skills.