Losing a driver’s license can be a stressful experience, but the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has established a systematic procedure for replacing lost licenses. Understanding and following the replacement process can help individuals swiftly obtain a new license and get back on the road.
Requirements for Applying for a New LTO License
Notarized Affidavit
Go to a notary public to acquire an Affidavit of Loss (for lost licenses) or an Affidavit of Mutilation (for damaged ones). Present an original and a copy of any ID issued by the government. Record the date of license misplacement or damage details for the affidavit. Notarize the document, ensuring the address matches the lost or mutilated license to prevent verification issues.
Valid ID
Presenting a valid ID is imperative to establish ownership of the lost driver’s license. Bring other IDs like UMID, PhilHealth, national ID, or TIN. If an ID is unavailable, a PSA Birth Certificate or another legal document verifying the applicant’s age suffices.
Driver’s License Application Form
Download the application form or obtain one from the licensing office, where replacement is planned. Legibly complete the form, providing all required information.
Obtaining a New Driver’s License via LTMS Portal
Access the LTMS Portal website and click on the ‘licensing’ section. Once on the portal, apply for a duplicate or replacement license. Prepare a scanned copy of the previously acquired affidavit of loss ready for upload. Complete the application process by uploading the necessary documents and submitting your application through the LTMS Portal.
After submission, you’ll be prompted to set an appointment at your preferred LTO branch. Our exploration revealed a potential setback – all dates two months from this article posting were fully occupied. If your preferred branch is fully booked, attempt to select alternative locations.
Obtaining a New Driver’s License via LTO Office
Head to any LTO branch. Retrieve the driver’s license application form from the LTO website beforehand or obtain it directly at the LTO office. Make sure the application form is completed with accurate details. You can fill it out in advance or complete it at the LTO office.
If lost, present a notarized Affidavit of Loss. If mutilated, present a notarized Affidavit of Mutilation. Together with these documents, provide your valid ID and a Driver’s License Application Form at the appropriate department. The staff will review your documents to check if complete before forwarding them to the next window for validation.
Once validated, head to the cashier window and pay. The replacement fee covers replacement, duplicate, certification, and clearance.
The issuance timeline varies across LTO offices, with some providing replacement cards on the same day. In some cases, it may take a few days. Present your official receipt to receive your replacement card when your turn comes. Note that the replaced driver’s license has the same validity as the lost one.
Optional Changes and Other Fees
If you wish to modify details like your address on the driver’s license, it can be done for an additional fee of P100. However, ID pictures and signatures are not required, as the LTO should already have this information on file.