A valid driver’s license from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) is essential for anyone who drives a motor vehicle (MV) or motorcycle (MC) in the Philippines. Not only does it allow you to drive legally on the road, but it also serves as an identification document for various purposes, such as banking and travel. If you lose your driver’s license, you may face many difficulties, especially if you depend on your vehicle for your daily transportation. You may also get fined and disqualified from driving if you are caught without a license.
However, there is no need to panic if your driver’s license is lost, stolen, or damaged. You can easily get a duplicate license from the LTO by following a simple and straightforward process. All you need is some money, documents, and patience. In this guide, we will show you how to replace your driver’s license with the LTO using the LTMS Portal, including the requirements, fees, and steps. By following this guide, you can get your new license quickly and continue driving safely and legally.
Requirements for Replacement of Driver’s License
To request a duplicate license from the LTO, you need to secure these three documents first:
1. Affidavit of Loss or Mutilation
Go to a notary public with your original and photocopied government ID and the date of the loss or damage. Tell the clerk how your license was lost or damaged, and have your affidavit notarized. Make sure your address on the affidavit is the same as the one on your lost license. The affidavit will cost you 150 to 300 pesos, depending on where you get it.
Scan the Affidavit of Loss or Mutilation, then save it as PDF or JPG.
2. Government-issued ID
You need to prove your identity to get a replacement for your missing driver’s license. You must have an original and a photocopy of a government-issued ID with your photo and signature, such as an SSS, PhilHealth, or TIN card. If you don’t have a government-issued ID, you can use a PSA-authenticated Birth Certificate or another legal document that shows your age and identity. This will confirm that you are the true owner of the lost license.
3. Mutilated Driver License
Bring your damaged card to LTO when you apply for a replacement of your damaged or mutilated driver’s license.
Now that you have these documents in hand, it’s time to apply for a replacement online.
How to Apply for Duplicate Driver’s License Online
Once you have your Affidavit of Loss/Affidavit of Mutilation, you can book an online appointment through LTMS by following these steps:
1. Access the LTMS Portal at https://portal.lto.gov.ph. Use your 15-digit username and password to log in to the system. If you do not have an LTMS account yet, please refer to this guide: How to Create an LTMS Portal Account.
2. Click the Licensing tab, read the LTMS Terms of Use, and then click the Accept button to proceed to the next step.
3. Tap to highlight the Driver’s License option, then click the Next button.
4. On the next web page, click the Duplicate option, then click the Next button again.
5. Use the drop-down button to select the Mandatory- Notarized Affidavit of Loss/Mutilated License option. Tap the Please Select File, look for the scanned copy of the Affidavit of Loss, then click the Upload button. After uploading the file, click the Next button to proceed to the next step.
6. Review the replacement costs and click the Apply button to continue.
7. Choose an appointment date and LTO branch to pick up your replacement license. Pay the replacement fees using your preferred payment channel.
9. After payment, proceed to your selected LTO branch on your appointment date and get your duplicate license. Do not forget to bring a valid ID and your damaged driver’s license (if applying for a replacement for a mutilated license).
How to Replace Lost Driver’s License at LTO Branch
If the LTMS service is unavailable at your local LTO Satellite Office, you’ll need to resort to the traditional method for applying for a replacement. Please note that LTO Driver’s License Renewal Centers (DLRCs), typically found in malls, are not authorized or equipped to process driver’s license replacements. You can submit your application at any LTO branch, with the exception of DLRCs.
Here is the step-by-step guide on how to process it on-site:
- Ask the guard or any LTO personnel where you can get a Driver’s License Application Form. Write legibly and fill out the form with all the required information.
- Present your Affidavit of Loss/Affidavit of Mutilation, a photocopy of your valid ID, and the completed Driver’s License Application Form to the Public Assistance and Complaints Desk. They will verify if all requirements are fulfilled before passing your documents to Window 2 (Student Permit/License Driver’s Evaluator) for validation. Afterward, obtain a queue number and patiently wait for your number or name to be announced.
- Once your turn arrives, proceed to the cashier to settle the necessary fees. The cost of replacing a lost or damaged driver’s license is approximately 472.63 pesos. This amount covers charges for replacement, duplication, certification, clearance, and computer services.
- Await the announcement of your name again. Upon your turn, show your official receipt to collect your replacement card. Please note that the time frame for issuing replacement cards can differ from office to office, with some providing them on the same day and others taking a few days. Remember, the validity period of your replacement driver’s license will match that of the lost one.
Total Cost of Replacing a Lost or Stolen Driver’s License
Having your driver’s license lost, stolen, or damaged due to negligence or theft can cause you a lot of hassle and money (depending on your perspective). You will need to pay the following amount to get a replacement license:
| FEES | AMOUNT |
| Affidavit of Lost/Mutilation Fee | ₱300.00 |
| Replacement Fee | ₱225.00 |
| Certification Fee | ₱100.00 |
| Clearance Fee | ₱30.00 |
| Duplicate Fee | ₱50.00 |
| Total | ₱705.00 |
Getting a duplicate for your lost, stolen, or damaged license will cost you around ₱705 not including the expenses for transportation, food, and the income you will lose for the day. Please note that the cost of replacing a driver’s license may vary depending on the location and the specific circumstances. It is advisable to contact the LTO for accurate information regarding the replacement fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
To help you more here are the frequently asked questions about getting a replacement for a lost, stolen, or damaged driver’s license:
1. Is it possible to get a new driver’s license if I lost it or had it stolen a long time ago?
You should apply for a new driver’s license instead of a replacement if you lost your license a long time ago and it has already expired.
2. Will I be able to replace my license even if I have some traffic violations or demerits on record?
Yes, but you have to pay for any fines and you might be required to undergo additional examinations.
3. Is it possible to get a new license at LTO branches in malls?
No, LTO Driver’s License Renewal Centers (DLRCs) that are mostly found in malls are not authorized or equipped to replace your driver’s license. They are only limited to DL renewals and student permit applications. To process your application, go to provincial, regional, or satellite LTO branches nationwide.
4. If my driver’s license has expired and I have lost it, can I still get a duplicate?
You can apply for a renewal, but you still have to prepare an Affidavit of Loss/ Mutilation. If your license has expired for more than two years (but not more than ten years), you can still renew it but you must pass the theoretical and practical driving exams. However, if you have lost your license for more than ten years, you cannot renew it anymore, and you have to start from scratch and apply for a student permit again.
To Wrap it Up
Replacing your lost or stolen driver’s license can be a hassle, but it doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. By following the steps in this guide, you can get a new license in as little as half an hour or as long as a few hours, depending on the LTO branch you visit. The best way to avoid long lines is to arrive early and prepare for all the requirements beforehand. Of course, the best way to avoid this process altogether is to take good care of your license and keep it safe at all times.
