LTO: Nearly 1,000 driver’s licenses revoked in 2024

We live in an age where someone is always watching—whether it's a CCTV camera, a social media post, or the sheer power of modern technology. This constant surveillance doesn’t just keep tabs on what we’re up to; it also means we’re more accountable than ever. When it comes to driving, the stakes are higher than ever, too. Yes, cars are safer and rules are stricter. But guess what? It’s also easier to get caught when you mess up.

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) isn’t playing around when it comes to cracking down on reckless and irresponsible drivers. In 2024 alone, nearly 1,000 driver’s licenses were revoked, with every single case undergoing due process. According to LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza III, this is all part of a broader push to promote road safety and responsible driving under the Department of Transportation's (DOTr) advocacy.

Breaking it down, 130 licenses were revoked for violations under RA 4136 (Land Transportation and Traffic Code)—many involving shady methods of obtaining a license. Another 94 licenses got the boot for breaking RA 10930, the law extending driver’s license validity, with offenses like owning duplicate licenses, faking documents, and cheating on exams. Then there’s the social media factor: 24 licenses were canceled after viral videos and public complaints revealed serious misconduct.

By far, the biggest offenders were those caught driving under the influence. A whopping 736 licenses were revoked under RA 10586, the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act. Whether it was alcohol, illegal substances, or refusing mandatory tests after an accident, these violations accounted for the majority of the revocations.

And it doesn’t stop there. In 2024, the LTO also apprehended over 639,000 motorists for various violations and impounded nearly 30,000 vehicles. Mendoza says the goal for 2025 is to see fewer cases, but the agency is ready to take swift action if necessary. 

So, here’s the takeaway: having a driver’s license is a privilege, not a right. It’s not just about following the rules to avoid penalties—it’s about keeping the roads safe for everyone. Let’s all do our part to drive responsibly. After all, the lives of those around us depend on it.