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What is the Allowed Age to Apply for a Non Professional Driver’s License-2024

Published

3 months ago

August 18, 2024

Admin

What is the Allowed Age to Apply for a Non Professional Driver’s License-2024

Regardless if you are Filipino citizen or foreigners in the Philippines , one should already know that one should abide by the rules on the age limits before applying for a driving non professional licence in the Philippines.

The Land Transportation Office has set an age limit for when applying for a Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL). After all, we addressed what is the allowed age to apply for a non professional driver’s license ,the age limit is mandated by the Philippines Government, if you ignore the given age limit , you may face some serious legal repercussions and even penalties.

The Filipino citizens at the age of 17 years can apply for a Non-Professional Driver’s License.
Foreigners may only attend NPDL at the age of 18 years old.

Philippine Non-Pro License: A Complete Guide

In the Philippines for many people, the process of getting a non-professional driver’s license is not an easy task. To do so, you need to understand and adhere to the required completing processes, including filling out applications, submission of mandated documents and passing the necessary LTO tests.

In this Philippine non-pro license ultimate guide, we will take you step-by-step to learn how to get it successfully, providing you with the knowledge and instruction you need to complete the procedure in a very short time in your location.

What is a Non-Pro Driver’s License in the Philippines?

A non-professional driver’s license (NPL) is a driver’s license type in the Philippines , which allows you to drive private vehicles only. A non-professional driver’s license allows you to obtain the following DL codes: A, A1, B, B1, and B2 along with which you can operate sedans, SUVs, vans, private jeepneys, motorcycles, and three-wheeled vehicles using these codes within the Philippines state.

Non- Professional Driver’s license holders are allowed to drive 4,500 GVW private vehicles with manual or automatic gearbox

NPDL holders must note that you are not permitted to drive any kind of vehicle for business usage with a non-professional driver’s license, even if it falls under one of your DL codes issued by LTO.

The LTO redesigned driver’s license which still keeps the license’s security features and ensures its legitimacy. Embarking on the legal journey to secure a driver’s license is a significant step and shows responsible behaviour to acquire the essential knowledge and skills needed for safe and competent driving.

Who Can Apply for a Non-Pro Driver’s License?

Filipino Citizen must be at least 17 years old
Foreigners must at least 18 years old
Holders of a valid student driver’s permit must for at least one month from issuance
Must be physically and mentally fit to operate a allowed vehicle
Must have attended and passed the Practical Driving Course (PDC) from an LTO-accredited driving school, LTO Driver’s Education Center ( DEC), or LTO-accredited TESDA training center
Must have passed the Automated Theoretical Exam LTO examinations
Must not have unsettled traffic violations in Philippines

Non-Professional Driver’s License Requirements-2024

To get a Non-Professional Driver’s License it is mandatory to satisfied with the below required documents items at the LTO:

Must at 17 years old( for Filipinos) or 18 years old (non-Filipinos)
Must possess fluency in the major languages of the Philippines, such as English, Filipino, or others;
Maintain good mental and physical health to drive vehicles;
Don’t have any outstanding traffic tickets in Philippines;
Possess a valid one-month student driver permit;
Must possess a non-professional license that has, if applicable, expired within the last two to ten years;
Must complete the Practical Driving Course (PDC) to obtain your certificate;
Must complete the written test and driving test administered by the LTO;

Documents for Non-Professional Driver’s License Application

Getting a non-professional driver’s license (NPDL) following paperwork must be obtained before visiting the LTO :

Duly accomplished Application for Permits and License (APL) form.
Must present original and submission of single copy of authentic medical certificate
Must present original and submit single copy of Practical Driving Course (PDC)
Must possess valid student permit (Refer to the validity of SP)
For employed applicants taxpayer , identification number must be present

If the applicant is seventeen (17) years old:

A parental or guardian’s consent (with a valid government-issued photo ID and signature) must along with below listed items :

Valid Philippine Identification Card (PhilID),
Passport,
The Social Security System Card (SSS),
UMIDs,
A PhilHealth ID,
Card must with TIN,
Postal ID,
Voter’s identification card,
Barangay ID,
Professional Regulation Commission (PRC),
Identification card for senior citizens,
OFWs ID,
The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) ID number must possessed,
The National Council on Disabled Affairs (NCDA) ID,
Solo Parent ID,
Certification of the Philippies voter,
The e-Card of the Government Services and Insurance System (GSIS),
Book of Seaman,
ID for Government Owned and / or Controlled Corporations (GOCC) department,
The Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF) or the Pag-IBIG ID must present,
Certification by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) must hold,
Must Present Identification card of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP)
Taxpayer’s Identification Number, if employed
A negative drug test result from a government hospital or testing center accredited by the Department of Health (DOH) in Philippines

How to Get a Non-Professional Driver’s License in the Philippines 2024: Step-by-Step Guide

Get all the required paperwork ready before you begin your application for a non-professional driver’s license. In addition, you must be prepared mentally and physically for both the written examination and the driving practical.

Here is a thorough tutorial on how to apply for a non-professional driver’s license in the Philippines to assist you step-by-step guide with the process.

Step 1:

Visit the preferred LTO branch closest to the applicant. Inform the customer service representative ,he will give you an Application for Driver’s License (ADL) form, complete this form with the necessary information and write legibly.

Step 2:

Your ADL form will be forward to the Evaluation Window with the additional documentation. Your documents will be examined and evaluated by the evaluator to ensure completeness and authenticity. At the end the queue number will be alot if everything is in order.

Step 3:

Once your documents are approved ,the cashier will call your name or number. Head to the cashier and ensure your schedule fees.

Step 4:

Report to the exam center to take the written test at the LTO Office. The exam results after declaration will be sent to you in a few minutes.

Step 5:

If failed:

If you are failed in attempting the test, you’ll have to retake the test end go through the entire process again on a different day, excluding the medical exam

If passed:

If you passed the driving exam than proceed the actual following phase

Step 6:

If you passed ,return to the office and wait for the cashier to call your name. Make sure the required payment is made when contacted.

Step 7:

Proceed to Window 2 to encoding your biometric information, fingerprints, picture, and digital signature will all be taken. Additionally, they will confirm that the information on file from your student permit application matches your fingerprints into the new LTO-IT System, LTM Portal.

Step 8:

Proceed to the releasing window to obtain the official receipt and your non-professional driver’s license , also release the LTO log sheet.

Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL) Validity

First-time applicants or new non-professional drivers will have a five-year validity period from the date of initial issuance, unless it is revoked or suspended due to own negligence. When the Non-Professional Driver’s License is renewed, responsible license holders with a clean record will be eligible for a ten (10) year renewal of the same type of driver’s license in the Philippines.

Video: Updated LTO Non-Professional Driver’s License Requirements, Step-by-Step Process

The Required fees for NPDL in the Philippines

What is the Allowed Age to Apply for a Non Professional Driver's License-2024

The whole application process is about 3–4 hours. It depends on how . All NPDL applications, whether new or existing, require funds to pay the fees in addition to the documentary requirements listed above at LTO head;

NPDL that has expired

An application fee—P100
Renewal fee— P 585.00

Total Fee— P 685.00 + penalty (if any)

Penalty

After one year and 1 day expired —P 75
After 2 years and 1 day— P 150.00
Upto 10 years, 2 years and 1 day— P 225.00

Other Fees

Additional Restriction Code(ARC) = P 100.00
Classification change =P 100.00

After paying these fees, you may have to wait at the releasing counter . Sometimes, it takes more than a day to process for releasing your license, so you may be asked to pick up your NPDL at a later time.

Where to Process a Non-Professional Driver’s License Applications

Applicant can apply for a non-professional driver’s license at any of the following LTO offices in the Philippines:

Licensing centers for LTO
LTO District Offices (DO) authorized by the LTO
Extension Offices (EOs) authorized by LTO

What is the Allowed Age to Apply for a Non Professional Driver’s License-2024

The Filipino citizens at the age of 17 years can apply for a Non-Professional Driver’s License.
Foreigners may only attend NPDL at the age of 18 years old.

Non-Professional Driver’s License- Benefits

It’s beneficial to own a driver’s license, even if it’s just a Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL):

By holding this, one avoids penalties and legal repercussions associated with driving without a license.
The card provides a valid photo ID that can be used in both public and private offices in the Philippines.
Getting a new license through the LTO Portal is more difficult than renewing an existing one in the Philippines.
It’s obligatory five to ten years pass before it expires.
To ensure safe and legal driving, the licensee is required to undergo a Periodic Medical Examination (PME) by an authentic clinic.

FAQs

QNO(1): How long is the validity period of an LTO driver’s license in the Philippines?

Ans: Depending on the nature of license , the validity period varies. As per Republic Act 10930, licensees with a clean record can renew their licenses and obtain ones with 10-year validity periods in the Philippines. A Student Permit is valid for one year, other two professional and non-professional drivers as well as those renewing with traffic violations, get five-year licenses.

QNO(2): Can I drive 4 wheels with a non professional license?

Ans: Yes. If you possess a non professional driver’s license, you are allowed to drive 4 wheels only if it is compliant with these DI codes: A, AI, B, B1, B2 by the LTO official department.

QNO(3): What is the Allowed Age to Apply for a Non Professional Driver’s License-2024

Ans: The Filipino citizens at the age of 17 years can apply for a Non-Professional Driver’s License.

Foreigners may only attend NPDL at the age of 18 years old.

Conclusion

There are different ways to secure a LTO non-professional driver’s license in the Philippines, which may be all as convenient and affordable as you want them to be.To get a non pro license, you need to make sure you are qualified and then prepare the required documents and apply at the official LTO office. It also serves as valid IDs , so you feel strong and drive tension free around the Philippines. Thankfully, most things have improved over the years. License is evidenced by the implementation of LTMS servics, which allows holders to apply for a driver’s license onlin.

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Can I drive automatic with a manual license in the Philippines?

Published

15 hours ago

November 20, 2024

Admin

Can I drive automatic with a manual license in the Philippines?

In the Philippines, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) regulates the issuance of driver’s licenses, including the rules that govern which types of vehicles a licensed driver is allowed to operate. A common question among new drivers is whether they can drive an automatic vehicle if they hold a manual driver’s license.

To answer this question, it’s important to understand the difference between manual and automatic licenses and the restrictions associated with each. Yes, in the Philippines, if you have a manual transmission (MT) license, you can drive an automatic transmission vehicle. Here’s how it works on Can I drive automatic with a manual license in the Philippines?

Understanding Manual and Automatic Driver’s Licenses

When you apply for a driver’s license in the Philippines, you must pass a driving test that involves demonstrating your ability to operate a vehicle. The LTO issues driver’s licenses based on the type of vehicle used during the test. The two main categories are:

Manual Transmission License (Code 2): This is issued to individuals who pass their driving test using a manual transmission vehicle. A manual vehicle requires the driver to manually shift gears using a clutch and gearstick. Drivers with this license are generally proficient in operating manual cars and can drive both manual and automatic transmission vehicles.
Automatic Transmission License (Code 3): This is given to drivers who pass their driving test using an automatic transmission vehicle. Automatic vehicles do not require the driver to manually shift gears, making them easier to drive. However, drivers with this restriction are limited to driving only automatic vehicles and are not authorized to operate manual transmission vehicles.

1. Manual Transmission (MT) License

If you pass your driving test in a manual transmission vehicle, the LTO (Land Transportation Office) will issue you a driver’s license that permits you to drive both manual and automatic transmission vehicles.
Restriction Code 2 (for light vehicles) or Restriction Code 3 (for heavy vehicles) on your license indicates that you are authorized to drive both manual and automatic transmission vehicles in the relevant vehicle class.

2. Automatic Transmission License

However, if you pass the driving test using an automatic transmission vehicle, your license may be restricted to only automatic vehicles. This means you won’t be legally allowed to drive a manual transmission vehicle.

Summary

If you have a manual (MT) license, you can drive both manual and automatic transmission vehicles.
If you have an automatic-only license, you can only drive automatic transmission vehicles. To drive a manual vehicle, you would need to take a practical driving test in a manual car to upgrade your license.

Understanding the Driver’s License System in the Philippines

In the Philippines, the LTO issues two types of licenses for private individuals:

Non-professional driver’s license (for personal use, driving private vehicles).
Professional driver’s license (for commercial use, such as public utility vehicles, delivery trucks, etc.).

Both of these licenses can be issued with different restriction codes, which specify the type of vehicle a driver is authorized to operate. For example:

Restriction Code 1: Motorcycles (with or without sidecars).
Restriction Code 2: Light vehicles such as cars, SUVs, and light trucks.
Restriction Code 3: Heavy vehicles such as buses, large trucks, and other commercial vehicles.

Manual vs. Automatic Transmission Vehicles

The distinction between manual transmission and automatic transmission vehicles is crucial in this context:

Manual Transmission (MT): Requires the driver to manually shift gears using a clutch and gear stick. This gives the driver more control over the vehicle, which some prefer for performance, fuel efficiency, or driving conditions.
Automatic Transmission (AT): Automatically shifts the gears based on the vehicle’s speed and load. Automatic vehicles are generally considered easier to drive, especially for beginners, as the driver does not have to worry about manually changing gears.

What Does a Manual Driver’s License Allow?

If you pass your practical driving test in a manual transmission vehicle, you are issued a driver’s license that allows you to drive both manual and automatic transmission vehicles. This is because the driving test is conducted with the assumption that a person who can handle a manual vehicle will also be capable of operating an automatic one, which is considered simpler.

The restriction code that is typically issued for light vehicles is Restriction Code 2, which permits you to drive cars, light trucks, and other light motor vehicles. This license would allow you to legally operate both manual and automatic cars, regardless of the transmission type.

So, in the case of a manual driver’s license, whether it’s a Non-Professional or Professional License, the person is authorized to drive both manual and automatic transmission vehicles. This is true because manual transmission requires more skill and control over the vehicle, and if a person is proficient in driving a manual car, they can easily transition to an automatic.

Can You Drive an Automatic Vehicle with a Manual License?

Yes, you can. If you hold a manual driver’s license, you are legally permitted to drive both manual and automatic transmission vehicles. This is because the manual license allows you to drive vehicles with both transmission types, and the automatic transmission is simply easier to operate. Since you are already trained and tested to drive a manual car, you are assumed to have the skills necessary to drive an automatic car as well.

However, there is a distinction when you get a driver’s license based on an automatic transmission test, which we will explore next.

What Does an Automatic-Only License Mean?

If you took your practical driving test using an automatic transmission vehicle, your driver’s license may be restricted to automatic transmission vehicles only. In this case, your restriction code will still indicate that you can drive a light vehicle (restriction code 2) or heavy vehicle (restriction code 3), but it may also be understood that your license only allows you to drive automatic cars. This is because you were only tested and assessed for proficiency in driving an automatic vehicle, which does not require gear-shifting skills.

Can You Drive Manual Vehicles with an Automatic-Only License?

If you were issued a driver’s license based on a practical driving test in an automatic vehicle, no, you cannot legally drive a manual transmission vehicle. In this case, you are restricted to driving only automatic transmission vehicles. The LTO does not automatically permit you to drive manual vehicles unless you have passed a driving test using a manual car.

If you are issued an automatic-only license, it is important to note that this restriction only applies to driving manual transmission vehicles. You are still authorized to operate automatic transmission vehicles, but you cannot legally operate manual cars.

How to Upgrade From an Automatic-Only License to a Full License

If you have a driver’s license with a restriction for automatic transmission only and you wish to be able to drive manual vehicles, you will need to undergo the following steps:

Take the Practical Driving Test Again in a Manual Car: You will need to reapply for a driving test, but this time, you must take the test using a manual transmission vehicle. The LTO requires that you demonstrate proficiency in driving a manual car before they remove the restriction on your license.
Pass the Test and Request License Upgrade: Once you pass the driving test with a manual vehicle, you can request an upgrade to your driver’s license at the LTO. After successfully passing the test, you will be issued a new license without the automatic-only restriction, allowing you to legally drive both manual and automatic transmission vehicles.

Key Differences Between Manual and Automatic Licenses in the Philippines

Manual Driver’s License: If you pass the driving test in a manual vehicle, you can drive both manual and automatic cars. This is the more flexible option, as it allows you to operate a wider range of vehicles.
Automatic-Only License: If you pass the driving test in an automatic vehicle, you can only drive automatic transmission vehicles. To drive a manual car, you will need to take a new test in a manual vehicle to have your restriction lifted.

Why Does the LTO Have Different Rules for Manual and Automatic Licenses?

The LTO’s policy is designed to ensure that drivers are fully competent in handling the vehicles they are licensed to drive. Driving a manual transmission vehicle requires more coordination and skill (e.g., shifting gears while controlling the clutch), whereas driving an automatic transmission vehicle is simpler, as it doesn’t require manual gear shifting.

The reasoning behind allowing manual license holders to drive both manual and automatic cars is that a person who has mastered manual driving will also be able to handle automatic transmission without difficulty. Conversely, someone with an automatic-only license has not demonstrated proficiency in manual transmission, hence the restriction.

Practical Considerations and Legal Compliance

Insurance: It’s important to note that in case of an accident, if you are caught driving a vehicle outside the scope of your license (for example, if you drive a manual car with an automatic-only license), you could face legal consequences, and your insurance policy might not cover the damages.
Driving Test Requirements: In the Philippines, many people initially take their driving test in an automatic transmission vehicle because it’s easier for beginners. However, if you plan on driving manual transmission vehicles, it’s advisable to take the practical driving test in a manual car, so you are legally allowed to drive both types.

FAQS

1. Can I drive an automatic vehicle with a manual driver’s license in the Philippines?

Yes, if you hold a manual driver’s license (Code 2), you can drive both manual and automatic vehicles. A manual license indicates that you have demonstrated proficiency in driving a manual car, and therefore, you are allowed to drive both types of vehicles.

2. What is the difference between a manual and automatic driver’s license in the Philippines?

A manual driver’s license (Code 2) is issued when a driver passes the test using a manual transmission vehicle. Drivers with this license can operate both manual and automatic vehicles.
An automatic driver’s license (Code 3) is issued when a driver passes the test using an automatic transmission vehicle. This restricts the driver to only driving automatic vehicles and not manual ones.

3. Can I drive a manual vehicle with an automatic driver’s license (Code 3)?

No, if you have an automatic driver’s license (Code 3), you are legally restricted to driving only automatic vehicles. You are not authorized to operate manual vehicles unless you retake the driving test with a manual transmission vehicle to remove the restriction.

4. Why do I need a manual license to drive both manual and automatic vehicles?

A manual license (Code 2) is given to drivers who have demonstrated the ability to handle a manual transmission vehicle, which requires more skill (like shifting gears manually). Therefore, those with a manual license are considered competent to drive both types of vehicles, whereas those with an automatic-only license are limited to automatic cars.

5. Can I switch my automatic license (Code 3) to a manual license (Code 2)?

Yes, you can convert your automatic license (Code 3) to a manual license (Code 2). You need to retake the driving test using a manual transmission vehicle. Once you pass, you can apply to have the restriction removed, allowing you to drive both manual and automatic vehicles.

6. If I have a manual driver’s license, can I drive an automatic car?

Yes, if you have a manual driver’s license (Code 2), you are permitted to drive both manual and automatic transmission vehicles without any restrictions.

7. Can I rent an automatic car with a manual license?

Yes, if you have a manual license (Code 2), you can rent and drive both manual and automatic cars. The restriction only applies to drivers with a Code 3 license, which limits them to automatic vehicles.

8. What happens if I drive a manual car with a Code 3 license?

If you have a Code 3 license and drive a manual car, it is considered illegal because you are not authorized to operate manual vehicles. To do so, you would need to pass a driving test in a manual transmission car to lift the restriction.

9. Is there any way to change my license restriction without retaking the driving test?

Unfortunately, to remove a Code 3 restriction (automatic license) and drive manual vehicles, you will need to retake the driving test using a manual vehicle. There is no alternative method to change the restriction without passing the manual test.

10. Are the restrictions the same for professional and non-professional licenses?

Yes, the restrictions for manual and automatic vehicles apply to both professional and non-professional licenses. If you pass the driving test using a manual vehicle, you are allowed to drive both types of cars regardless of whether your license is professional or non-professional. The main difference is that professional licenses are for commercial vehicle use.

11. Are there additional fees to lift the restriction from my automatic license?

Yes, there may be additional fees for taking the driving test again or for processing the change in your license. These fees can vary depending on the LTO branch or the type of service.

12. What is the process to convert my license from automatic to manual?

To convert your license from automatic-only (Code 3) to manual (Code 2), you need to:
1. Take a driving test using a manual transmission vehicle.
2. Pass the test.
3. Apply to have the restriction removed at the LTO branch.
4. Pay any applicable fees for the license change.

13. Can I drive both automatic and manual vehicles without any restrictions if I take the manual test?

Yes, if you take and pass the driving test using a manual vehicle, you will not have any restrictions on your license. This means you can legally drive both manual and automatic transmission vehicles.

Conclusion

In summary, yes, you can drive an automatic transmission vehicle with a manual driver’s license in the Philippines. This is because the manual license gives you the ability to drive both manual and automatic vehicles. However, if you hold an automatic-only license, you are restricted to driving automatic vehicles only. To drive manual cars legally with an automatic-only license, you would need to take a driving test in a manual transmission vehicle and request an upgrade from the LTO.