Renewing your driver’s license early through the LTMS (Land Transport Management System) portal is not only possible, but it also offers added convenience and flexibility. Normally, renewal is permitted up to 60 days prior to expiry, but with the option for advance renewal, applicants are allowed to renew their licenses from 61 days up to a year before expiration, provided they can demonstrate they’ll be out of the country at that time the license expires. This process is also now available online. It is a lot like the standard license renewal, but without the need for a theoretical examination, streamlining the renewal procedure by allowing it to be completed well in advance.
The advance renewal initiative by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) aims to enhance public service by offering a broader window for license renewal. Traditionally, renewal occurs around one’s birthday, a narrow timeframe that poses challenges for planning. Through the LTMS portal, LTO has not only extended renewal opportunities, but also enabled individuals to renew online and, in select branches, even on Saturdays and weekends. This initiative facilitates smoother scheduling for individuals who may find it difficult to take time off during weekdays, ultimately improving accessibility to the renewal process.
Advance Renewal of LTO Driver’s License
The Advance Renewal option for LTO driver’s licenses, accessible via the LTMS portal, provides enhanced flexibility for applicants. Regular renewal is permitted up to 60 days before the license’s expiry date. However, for added convenience, individuals can opt for renewal 61 days to a year in advance, provided they furnish proof of their absence from the country during the expiration period. This flexibility empowers the public to plan their license renewal more effectively, accommodating their schedules and commitments.
Moreover, the online platform extends accessibility by enabling driver’s license renewal from the comfort of one’s home. Additionally, select LTO branches offer Saturday renewal services, catering to individuals unable to take time off during weekdays. These measures significantly enhance convenience, ensuring that the public can undergo the renewal process seamlessly, regardless of their weekday commitments.
Qualifications
Before starting with the procedures, make sure you are qualified to initiate and process an advance renewal first. Take a look at this list of eligibility requirements set by the LTO:
- Must be a holder of Driver’s License not expired for more than two (2) years including advance renewal for those who intend to leave the country within one (1) year before expiry date
- Must be physically and mentally fit to operate a motor vehicle
- Must not have unsettled traffic violation
- Must have completed the Comprehensive Driver’s Education (CDE) prior to initial renewal of the five (5) years DL
- For DL holders with accumulated five (5) to nine (9) demerit points must have completed the Driver’s Reorientation Course and its examination
- For DL holders with ten (10) or more but less than forty (40) demerit points, must have passed both the Driver’s Reorientation Course and its examination, and the automated Theoretical Examination
Requirements
Once you are sure that you are qualified to take advantage of the advance renewal procedures, prepare the following documentary requirements:
- Duly accomplished Application for Permits and Licenses (APL) Form
- Electronically transmitted medical certificate from LTO accredited medical clinic. Submission of one (1) photocopy and presentation of original medical certificate
- Electronically Transmitted Certificate of Completion of Comprehensive Driver’s Education (CDE) for the initial renewal of DL with five (5) years validity
Note: The CDE shall no longer be required for the renewal of all driver’s license holders that were issued with Student-driver’s Permit on or after 03 August 2020, and those who have renewed to their current driver’s license on or after 28 October 2021.
- Presentation of original Driver’s License
- Submission of Certificate of Completion of Driver’s Reorientation Course for applicants with five (5) to nine (9) and ten (10) or more but less than forty (40) demerit points
- Plane ticket (for advance renewal only
Procedures
For advance renewal of your LTO driver’s license online through the LTMS portal, follow these step-by-step instructions:
Step 1. Ensure your device has a stable internet connection and a compatible web browser.
Step 2. Access the official LTMS portal by searching “LTMS LTO” or visiting the official LTMS website directly.
Step 3. Log into the LTMS online portal using your account email address or the 15-digit LTO client number provided to you along with your nominated password.
Note: If you already have an LTMS account, skip registration and proceed directly to driver’s license renewal. Otherwise, follow the registration steps provided on the LTMS portal.
Step 4. Select “Licensing” in the LTMS dashboard.
Note: For newly registered LTMS accounts, this will lead to a form to complete your profile. Afterward, you’ll be redirected to the dashboard. Click “Licensing” again to continue.
Step 5. Read and accept the Terms of Use by clicking the blue “Accept” button.
Step 6. On the Online Application form, choose “Driver’s License” as the License Classification.
Note: Before proceeding, add your Medical Certificate by clicking “Add Medical Certificate” and entering your Medical Certificate Number. Then, click “Verify.”
Step 7. Select “Renewal” as the type of application, then click “Next.”
Step 8. Follow the prompts to complete the procedure, including selecting your preferred appointment schedule and LTO Office.
Step 9. Wait for the application confirmation and proceed to payment.
Step 10. Pay the applicable renewal fees through your preferred payment channel and await the Official Receipt via email.
Step 11. On your appointment date, visit the selected LTO branch and present proof of your paid transaction.
Step 12. Get a queue number and wait for processing.
Step 13. When called, proceed to the CSO window for biometric capturing.
Step 14. Wait in the designated area for payment of the DL card.
Step 15. Receive the Official Receipt.
Step 16. Present the OR to collect your new driver’s license.
Step 17. Sign the log sheet and claim your new DL card.
Note: Be mindful of your DL’s specific expiry date and any travel plans you may have. Make sure to renew your license early if necessary to avoid penalties for late renewal.
Fees
For the advance renewal of driver’s license, the only fees you need to pay is the license fee amounting to P 585.00.
Processing Time
The processing time for advance renewal of driver’s license via the LTMS portal is approximately thirty (30) minutes, provided that all the required documents are submitted. If there are other transactions like revision of records, then the processing time may take longer and the costs may be potentially higher.
Video: Can I Renew My Driver’s License Before it Expires
If you are wondering if you can renew your license early before it expires, then you can watch this video from Responsible and Law Abiding Driver for answers:
Summary
If you’re renewing your driver’s license, using the LTMS portal streamlines the process, offering convenience and flexibility. By enabling advance renewal options up to a year before expiry, individuals can plan effectively, even if they’ll be out of the country during renewal. The 24/7 accessibility of the LTMS portal also caters to the diverse schedules, ensuring smoother renewal experiences. Follow the outlined procedures diligently, considering qualifications, requirements, and fees, to navigate the advance renewal process seamlessly. Then, make sure to take advantage of this user-friendly and convenient LTO portal to renew your license early and avoid penalties. Start your renewal process today and experience the convenience firsthand.