How to get a student permit in the Philippines

Before you are allowed to drive a vehicle your first step is to get a student permit. This will allow you to operate a vehicle but with the supervision of a fully licensed driver. With this document, you can then learn how to drive a motor vehicle and eventually get fully licensed to drive it. Not just anybody can get their student permit as there are certain prerequisites that you need to fulfill even before you can apply.

• You must be at least 17 years of age in order to avail of a student permit.

• You must also be physically and mentally fit to drive a motor vehicle

• You must be both literate in English and in Filipino

• You must have completed the 15-hour Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) seminar at any of the LTO-accrediting driving schools that serve as a Practical Driving Course (PDC).

It is important to note that the 15-hour TDC seminar does not to be taken all in one go and can be spread out into multiple dates or occasions that better suit your schedule. The LTO has mandated this so that all new drivers will be familiar with the rules and regulations of the road prior to physically driving a motor vehicle.

Before you can begin the process of applying for a student permit you will need to have the following documents ready to make your application process go as smoothly as possible.

• A TDC or PDC certificate

• A completed Student permit application form

• Birth certificate

• Tax Identification Number (TIN)

Once you have all of these documents ready you can then proceed to your desired LTO office and begin your application process. If you still do not have a TIN the LTO site may still let you proceed with the application process.

Once you have chosen your desired LTO office for your application you can begin the process and follow these steps. 

1. Once at your preferred licensing center obtain a copy of the student permit form and fill in the necessary information. 

2. Wait for your number to be called  as you will be assigned one with the form

3. Submit your paperwork to the designated window when called including all of your required documentation.

4. You will then need to wait again for your picture and signature to be taken as well, as part of the student permit process.

5. Once completed you will need to wait again as you will be grouped up for payment.

6. Once called, head to the cashier for payment and receive your official receipt (OR)

7. Wait again, as your name or number or batch will be called to the releasing area for you to claim your student permit.

8. As the final step, you will need to present your OR and receive your student permit.

In the event that no permit can be obtained within the day itself, come back at your earliest convenience with the OR ready so you can claim your permit.