If you’re driving a car for the first time, then you need to secure a student-driver permit. There have been some big changes when it comes to the guidelines of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) for driver’s license applications. This article will surely help you understand the rigors of student permit applications.
What is a Student-Driver Permit?
A student-driver license or student license is the official document that authorizes the user to drive a vehicle in the Philippines. Note that with a student license, it is required by law to be with someone who has a professional or a non-professional driver’s license.
The student permit is valid for one year from its date of issue, allowing student drivers to practice driving with the help and guidance of a professional or qualified instructor.
Can I Drive Alone with a Student Permit?
No, the law requires that you need to be with someone who is a holder of a professional on a non-professional license when you drive around. The LTO penalty for driving alone is Php 500.
Can I apply for a Student Permit Online?
Yes, students can now apply for student-driver permit online through the Land Transportation Office (LTO) web portal. Here are the basic steps:
- Go to the official web portal and click Enroll as an Individual.
- Create an online appointment at your preferred LTO branch office.
- Pay the corresponding fees online.
What are the Requirements for an LTO student-driver permit?
1. Accomplished Application for Driver’s License form
You may request this form at the LTO office or get this from the LTO website. The applicant should fill up this form.
2.Birth Certificate
Applicants need to submit the original and photocopies of their birth certificate, issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). Note that for married women applicants, you will also need to submit original and photocopies of your PSA-issued marriage contract
3. Parent’s / Guardian’s Consent and Valid Government-Issued ID (for minors)
If you are 16 years old by the time of your application, you will need to submit an original copy of a duly notarized authorization letter from a parent or your legal guardian. The said letter should state that the applicant will be allowed to secure a student permit. In addition to the notarized authorization letter, you will be required to submit an original and photocopy of one valid government ID of your parent or guardian.
4. Photo-bearing ID with signature
Whether you are a minor or not, you will be required to submit an original and photocopy of any ID with your photo and signature, such as school or employee ID.
5. Medical certificate from an LTO-accredited clinic
The accredited clinic will electronically transmit the medical certificate to the LTO. The clinic will give you a hard copy of your medical certificate. Make sure to submit this to the LTO for validation during your application.
6. Theoretical Driving Course certificate of completion
Did you know? The LTO now requires the completion of a 15-hour Theoretical Driving Course (TDC). The completion certificates are issued by either LTO Driver’s Education Centers or LTO-accredited driving schools.
7. Tax Identification Number (TIN)
For those who are employed, you will be required to present your TIN ID together with the other requirements.
How to Get Student-Driver Permit
- Go to any LTO center or extension office in NCR. Proceed to the Customer Service window to get a queue number.
- Once your number is called, submit the requirements to the receiving LTO personnel.
- If your requirements are complete, he/she will turn it over to an evaluator who will assess your qualifications.
- If you’re qualified, your application will be encoded in the LTO system and forwarded to the approving officer.
- Once your application is approved, you will be called for photo and signature-taking.
- Proceed to the cashier to pay the fees. Present the official receipt to the releasing counter to claim your student-driver permit card.
Final Thoughts
Getting a student’s permit is a necessary step to becoming a full-fledged and responsible driver. We hope that the guide above will help you with the rigors of the application process.
