Driver’s license is important to legally drive in the Philippines.  According to Republic Act 4136 (“Land Transportation and Traffic Code”), Article 1, Section 19:

Duty to Procure License. – Except as otherwise specifically provided in this Act , no person shall operate any motor vehicle without first procuring a license to drive a motor vehicle for the current year, nor while such license is delinquent, invalid, suspended or revoked.

 The license shall be carried by the driver at all times when operating a motor vehicle, and shall be shown and/or surrendered for cause and upon demand to any person with authority under this Act to confiscate the same.

What are the Kinds of Driver’s Licenses?

1.)  Professional Driver’s license – with this license you have the privilege to drive a vehicle as means of livelihood. Example: Driving a Taxi, PUJ & the like.

2.)  Non-Professional Driver’s License – with this license you have the privilege to drive private vehicles without being paid. This is commonly use for personal or private use vehicle.

What are the Restriction Number Codes in a Driver’s License?

Restriction Code ‘1’ – this restriction code number can only operate/drive Motorcycles/motorized tricycles/E-Bikes (LSV), Trikes (A-1)

Restriction Code ‘2’ – Motor vehicles up to 4,500 kgs. Gross vehicle weight, both manual and automatic clutch.

Restriction Code ‘3’ – Motor vehicles with 4,501 kgs. Gross vehicle weight and above both manual and automatic clutch.

Restriction Code ‘4’ – Motor vehicles with automatic clutch up to 4,500 kgs. gross vehicle weight.

Restriction Code ‘5’ – Motor vehicles with automatic clutch up to 4,501 kgs. gross vehicle weight and above.

Restriction Code ‘6’ – articulate vehicles 1,600 kgs. Gross Trailer weight and below.

Restriction Code ‘7’ – articulated vehicles 1,601 up to 4,500 kgs. gross trailer weight.

Restriction Code ‘8’ – articulated vehicles 4,501 kgs. gross trailer weight and above.

What are the steps in getting Driver’s License in Davao City?

Obtaining a Student Driver’s Permit is the first step to do before getting a Professional or Non-Professional drivers license. This is issued to any person  who is eager to learn driving motor vehicles. Student Driver’s Permit must be accompanied by Professional or Non-Professional Driver’s License holder when learning how to drive.

If you are now ready and capable to drive then proceed to Land Transportation Office Region XI Building, Quimpo Boulevard. You may follow the following steps:

• Secure a Medical Certificate. There are accredited clinics who issue this certificate just outside the LTO Office for a fee of P100

Step 1. Proceed to information desk and get the Application Form for Driver’s License. Fill-in the form, attached a Valid Student Permit and your Medical Certificate. Submit to the officer in-charge.

Step 2. Wait for you name to be called for picture taking and digital signature.

Step 3.  Your name will be called in the cashier. Prepare P167.63

Additional Requirements:

• You will also be required to pay car rental fee if you haven’t bring your vehicle. There are office outside the LTO building who offer car rental service for an amount of P250
• Buy a Reviewer at LTO XI Employees Cooperative (P100)
• Proceed to the Seminar Room. Attend the Seminar
• Take the Written Exam. (Note: Bring a black ballpen)

Step 4 (a). Results will be called in the Step 4 window.

• Prepare for the Actual Driving Test.

*If you passed the test, then wait for a while and your name will be called again to Step 3 (Cashier) and prepare to pay an amount of P417.63

Step 4 (b). Releasing of Driver’s License.

Disclaimer: The information written is based on the procedure that the author undergone in getting a driver’s license. Some process/steps might change without prior notice. You can visit the LTO XI for the exact details.