Government Services

A Newbie Driver’s Guide to LTO Student Permit Requirements

Published

10 months ago

January 22, 2024

Driving a car for the first time? Driving legally in the Philippines requires a license. To qualify for a driver’s license, you must first obtain a student license from the Land Transportation Office (LTO). For your convenience, here is an informative guide to LTO student permit requirements, steps, and fees.

What is an LTO Student Permit?

LTO student permits are official documents that allow the holder to drive a vehicle in the Philippines in the presence of someone with a professional or non-professional driver’s license.

A student permit is valid for a year from the date of issue, giving you enough time to learn traffic signs and rules, improve your driving skills, and prepare for LTO driving exams. It cannot be revised, modified, or renewed.

LTO Student Permit Requirements in 2024

👤 Qualifications

The following conditions must be met in order to qualify for a student permit:

Citizens of the Philippines: At least 16 years old
Residents of the Philippines must be at least 18 years old and have lived in the country for a minimum of six months.
Being physically and mentally fit to operate a vehicle
Filipino and English are both languages I am capable of reading and writing
A successful completion of the LTO’s Theory of Driving Course is required
Violations of traffic laws have not been unsettled

📋 Student License Requirements

The next step is to prepare these requirements for a student license application:[1]

You can get a completed driver’s license application form from the LTO’s website[2].
An electronic medical certificate issued by an LTO-accredited medical clinic and registered physician (must include one photocopy of the original).
The original and a photocopy of any of the following:
- Certificate of birth issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA)
- Card of Identification of the Philippines
- The passport
- The local civil registry
- Certificate of marriage issued by the PSA
For applicants below 18 years old:
- LTO student permit application consent letter from parent or guardian.
- Please provide one original and one photocopy of a valid government-issued ID with photo and signature for each parent or guardian.
Original and photocopy of any government-issued ID with the applicant’s photo and signature.
If applicable, the taxpayer’s identification number (TIN).
Original and photocopy of Theoretical Driving Course Certificate (this should be electronically transmitted to the LTO by the accredited driving school, LTO DEC, or TESDA training center).
Foreigners:
- Original and photocopy of passport with entry date of at least one month and visa expiration date of six months
- A birth certificate authenticated by the Philippine Statistics Authority and one photocopy of the original
LTO Client ID

For easy reference, you can also download this handy guide to LTO student permit requirements:

How to Get a Student License from the LTO

For your LTO student license application to be processed, you must complete 15 hours of theoretical driving. It is free to take the course at any LTO Driver’s Education Center.

The TDC can also be taken at your preferred LTO-accredited driving school for an additional fee if you have the funds. As per LTO Memorandum Circular 2023-2390, TDCs offered by driving schools are capped at $1,000.

There is no actual driving involved in these sessions. Instead, they emphasize non-practical aspects such as traffic laws and driving etiquette.

The application process can begin once you have all the requirements for a LTO student permit.

LTO Student Permit Walk-In Application Steps

To obtain your student license at an LTO branch, follow these steps:

Fill out the Application for Driver’s License (ADL) form at any LTO licensing center or district/extension office (if you’re in NCR, here’s a list of LTO branches in Metro Manila).
Please proceed to the customer service window to obtain a number.
Once they call your number, submit the student license requirements. Upon receiving your documents, the receiving personnel will check to see if they are complete before handing them over to an evaluator to assess. The LTO system will encode your application and forward it to the approving officer if you are qualified.
A photo and signature will be taken after your application is approved.
Fees for student license applications can be paid at the cashier. You should keep the official receipt that was issued to you.
You can claim your student permit card at the Releasing counter by presenting your receipt. For driver’s license issuance, you’ll also receive a driving exam reviewer from the LTO.
Sign the release form by writing your name.

The process for getting a non-professional license takes one month after you get a student permit. You must hold a student license for at least six months before you can obtain a professional license.

Read Aslo:LTO Transactions Made Easier: How to Use the LTMS Portal

LTO Student Permit Online Application Steps

Are you wondering how to get your student permit online? Students can apply for their LTO permits online through the LTO’s web portal. On desktop, mobile, and tablet, you can access the public portal for the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS).

Here is how to schedule an online appointment for a student permit through the LTMS:

Please visit https://portal.lto.gov.ph to register if you have never done so before. If you have already registered, click Log In.
Click Yes, I accept the Terms of Agreement after reading them. Before proceeding to the next step, encode the security code. You can click Next on the lower right corner of the page when you are finished.
You can choose the type of registration you want. Click Enroll as an Individual and fill out the registration form.
If you already have a driver’s license, you’ll be asked. Please select No since you are applying for a student permit. In the case of a driver’s license, you will need to enter the number, expiration date, and security question associated with the license.
Provide your personal information, including your email address, date of birth, mother’s maiden name, and contact information.
Verify your email by clicking the link in the email. Within 24 hours, verify your email. If you fail to do so, your account will automatically be deleted.
Make sure your password is secure (at least eight characters, alphanumeric, with uppercase and lowercase letters).
Using your login information, sign into your account.
On your dashboard, click Licensing and fill out the online application.
You can select Student’s License under the type of service list.
Complete the LTO student permit application form by selecting the preferred application schedule and LTO office. A medical certificate can also be submitted and payments processed through the LTO website.
Visit your preferred LTO office to collect biometrics and claim your permit.

Tips for Student Permit Applicants and Holders

When applying for a student permit and driving as a student license holder, keep these tips in mind.

Undergo a Medical Exam at an LTO-Accredited Clinic

A medical certificate is one of the requirements for applying for a student license. It will prove that you are physically and mentally fit to drive. A medical certificate will indicate if you have a health condition that will affect your driving abilities.

The LTO, however, only accepts medical certificates issued by accredited clinics and registered physicians. Getting a medical certificate from a non-accredited clinic and doctor is a waste of time and money. Find LTO-accredited clinics near the LTO office.

Bring Enough Cash for the Medical Exam and Student License Fee

Student permit fees are not the only cost associated with getting a permit. It is also necessary to factor in the cost of the medical exam, which ranges from 350 to 500 dollars. Be sure to bring extra cash with you so you can cover these LTO fees.

If you have an HMO or health card, you can use it to cover the medical exam fee.

Apply for a Driver’s License Before Your Student Permit Expires

Expiring student permits cannot be accepted by the LTO when applying for a driver’s license. The student permit must be submitted before its one-year validity period expires in order to get a driver’s license.

Remember:You can apply for a non-professional license one month to a year after your student permit is issued. Upon receiving your student permit, you can apply for a professional license between six months and a year later.

Come Prepared

Being early pays off when it comes to getting a student license. It is not unusual for people to arrive at LTO branches as early as 6 a.m. just to get in line.

It is advisable to check the LTO branch’s operating hours before you go, as they may change without warning. You should wear appropriate clothing (office attire is a safe bet). In addition, bring a pen with you to avoid having to borrow one, causing a delay in processing your student permit.

Skip of the Fixers

A student permit appointment with the LTO is challenging, so it’s tempting to pay someone to do it for you. Aside from the fact that it is illegal, planning and preparing for your student permit application can help you save a great deal of money. In addition to learning the steps, you can also prepare the requirements and go to an LTO branch to complete them.

FAQs

How do I apply for a student permit?

You can enroll in a Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) at a LTO-accredited driving school or you can take a free TDC at your local LTO Driver’s Education Center.
Your Student Permit application must meet all the requirements.
Apply for a Student Permit at the LTO Office.

How much is TDC for student permit?

How much does TDC cost? The TDC is free at any LTO branch or DEC nationwide. For face-to-face sessions with a driving school, however, the price ranges from Php 1,500.00 to Php 2,500.00.

Conclusion

Obtaining a student permit from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) is a vital step for first-time drivers in the Philippines. This guide provides comprehensive information on requirements, application steps, fees, and online options to facilitate a smooth process for aspiring drivers.

Government Services

How to Get your UMID Card: Requirements, Process, and More

Published

6 months ago

May 11, 2024

Admin

There is no longer a need for multiple IDs in order to carry out government transactions. UMID card was introduced as How to Get a UMID Card: Requirements, Process, and More in How to Get a UMID Card: Requirements, Process, and More which is one of the most remarkable innovations of the government. This card serves as a master key that contains all the details of several government identification cards, including those issued by the SSS and PhilHealth.

Filipinos are now applying for UMID cards at SSS and GSIS branches due to their practicality. This is the right place to apply for a UMID card if you are an SSS member. In this article, you will find all the information you need on how to obtain a UMID card in the Philippines.

Read Aslo:National ID Tracking Online In Philippines

What is UMID?

UMID stands for Unified Multi-Purpose Identification, which is a versatile ID card used to conduct transactions with various government agencies, including Social Security System (SSS), Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG Fund.

UMID cards are widely recognized as valid forms of identification in the Philippines, making them highly influential. The application process for a UMID card is straightforward and uncomplicated, even for recent college graduates just starting out.

Who Can Apply for a UMID Card?

Check that you meet the eligibility requirements before beginning your UMID application. You may apply for UMID if you meet the following conditions:

You must be a member of SSS and have posted at least one contribution.
In the event that your UMID card has been lost.
Your card needs to be updated if your name or personal details have changed.

From December 10, 2020 onwards, you will not need to fill out the UMID application form if you applied for an SS number online. By using the My.SSS Appointment System, you can schedule an appointment for biometric data collection.

Please bring the printed SS Number application and the transaction number slip to your appointment. It is important to remember that the Branch Number Coding Scheme applies if you choose to submit a manual application at the branch.

What are the Requirements for a UMID Card in 2024?

“One advantage of applying for a UMID card is the simplicity of the required documents. UMID requires only the following information:”

Application form for UMID duly completed
A valid ID from any of the following categories:
Having a driver’s license
The passport
Identification card with 2D barcodes
Card for the PhilID
The Seaman’s Book
Identification card of a voter
Certificate of Registration for Alien
The registration of firearms
Clearance from the NBI
ID card for the postal service
Should you not have any of the above-mentioned valid IDs, you may submit any two IDs/documents, one of which should bear your photo, and both of which should bear your signature

Where Can I Apply for a UMID Card?

Would you like to obtain a UMID card but are unsure of how to apply? UMID applications can be filed in two ways:

You can apply online through your My.SSS account. At your chosen SSS branch, you will be given an appointment date for biometric data capture.
Applicants can apply offline at an SSS branch that offers UMID enrollment.

How to Get a UMID Card in 2024

You need to follow these steps in order to apply for a UMID card.

Step 1: Schedule Your Appointment

In order to obtain a UMID card, there are two methods available. You can schedule an appointment online or offline. The My.SSS portal allows you to schedule online. As an alternative, you can schedule offline by visiting an SSS branch with a UMID enrollment facility.

In addition, see SSS Coding for Walk-in Transactions of Members 2024

Applying for a UMID appointment online via My.SSS

You can visit the official SSS website[3].
Click the Member tab on the right side of the page.
You will be directed to the log-in page. Enter your User ID and password.
Click on the Member Info tab. From the drop-down menu, select Appointment System.
Select UMID Card Application under Purpose.
Choose your region, preferred SSS branch, and appointment date. There are no dates available on the dates in red, but there are dates available on the dates in green.
You will need to enter your desired time schedule and the counter number to process your application.
For your reference, print or take a screenshot of the appointment details after you complete the application.

How to Set a UMID Appointment via Branch Walk-In

A UMID appointment may be scheduled at an SSS branch, but you must ensure that the branch has a UMID enrollment facility if you don’t have a My.SSS account. It is important to note, however, that you cannot visit the branch at any time since SSS is following the Branch Number Coding system, which prohibits anyone from visiting the branch.

In order to be able to transact at SSS branches, you need to know that your employer’s ID number’s 10th digit corresponds to a specific day. The following schedule is based on the 10th digit of your social security number.

Your SS or Employer ID 10th Digit	Corresponding Transaction Day
1 and 2	Monday
3 and 4	Tuesday
5 and 6	Wednesday
7 and 8	Thursday
9 and 0	Friday

Note: If the transaction day falls on a public holiday, you can visit the branch the following day.

Step 2: Submit Your UMID Requirements at the SSS Branch

When your appointment arrives, go to the SSS branch of your choice and submit the required documentation. Bring your primary and secondary ID’s original copies with you in case you are required to present them. A SSS representative will review your records and authenticate your documents.

Step 3: Pay for the UMID Fee (For Replacement Card Only)

For a replacement Social Security System (SSS) card or to update your information, you must pay a fee of ₱200. Payment can be made at any SSS-accredited collecting partner, such as Bayad Center. Keep the receipt as you will need to submit it to the SSS officer processing your application.

You will not have to pay anything if you are applying for the first time. For new applicants, the Unified Multi-Purpose Identification (UMID) card is free.

Step 4: Have Your Biometrics Taken

You will be asked to undergo a biometrics capture where you will be asked to provide your photo, a digital signature, and your fingerprints. When you have completed the process, please verify that any errors have been corrected before leaving the booth.

Step 5: Wait for Your UMID Card to be Issued

The personnel may inform you of the estimated delivery or collection schedule for your UMID. After submitting your application for the UMID card, it generally takes around 30 days for it to be released. While the SSS warns its members that card issuance may take longer than expected, there are possible delays. In spite of this, the agency promises to notify its members as soon as the cards are ready for pickup via their mobile number or email address.

At a self-service kiosk in your preferred SSS branch, you can activate your UMID card immediately.

UMID Card Application FAQs

QNO(1):Are the UMID and SSS ID the same?

Ans:There is a difference between the two ID cards issued by the SSS, despite the fact that they are issued by the same organization. Since 2011, the SSS has issued the UMID card to its members, replacing the blue SSS ID card it issued prior to the launch of the UMID. Due to this, the blue SSS ID card is no longer issued by the SSS.

QNO(2):Does the UMID card have an expiration date?

Ans:You should keep your UMID card safe since it has no expiration date and is valid indefinitely. In the event that you lose or damage the card, you will need to request a replacement.”

QNO(3):If I don’t have any primary documents, what should I submit?

Ans:The option to provide two secondary documents is available to you if you do not have a primary identification document like a driver’s license, passport, or seaman’s card. There is a comprehensive list of secondary documents that can be attached to the UMID application.

QNO(4):How much does it cost to get a UMID card?

Ans:If this is your first time applying for a UMID card, there is no fee. Replacement cards will cost you $200 at the SSS branch during your scheduled appointment if you need one.

QNO(5):I need to replace my card to update my data and fingerprint. What should I do?

Ans:Visit the designated branch and submit the previously issued SSS or UMID card.

QNO(6):How will I know the status of my application?

Ans:You can check the status of your UMID application via email or My.SSS.

Email the following details to [email protected]:

Please provide your full name
Social Security Number
Details of your concern
Please send a photo or scanned copy of the following:
A Phil ID (national ID) or one primary identification card
Two valid ID cards, one bearing your picture and the other bearing your signature
I would like to see a photo or selfie of you holding the ID cards/documents that you have sent.

The status of your UMID application can also be viewed through your online SSS account. How to do it:

You can access your My.SSS account by logging in.
Hover your mouse over Member Info on the menu.
The UMID/SSS ID details can be viewed by clicking on it.
You will be able to see information about your UMID application on the system. Under the Transaction Status column, you can check its status.

QNO(7):Someone offered to apply for my UMID for me. Is this legit?

As a public service, the SSS warns the public to heed warnings about intermediaries offering UMID cards for a fee. In order to produce legitimate UMID cards, the SSS is the only agency authorized to do so.

These intermediaries do not accept UMID cards for official transactions and they are unlawful. In addition to being denied benefits and loan applications, you may also face legal penalties if you use this card.

It is therefore important that the public notifies the SSS of any Facebook or Instagram pages that offer this service. If you would like to contact the agency’s Special Investigation Department, please use the following contact information:

Contact number: 8709-7198 locals 5313 to 5316 Email address: [email protected]

4 Tips Every UMID Applicant Should Remember

When filling out an online application or visiting an SSS branch, it is important to keep these things in mind:

Complete the UMID Application Form Before Going to the SSS Branch

In order to minimize the duration of your visit to the SSS branch, you need to complete this process prior to your UMID application. Despite its importance to members, even SSS President and CEO Aurora Ignacio has stressed the need to complete this task.

Double-Check the Information You Provided

Providing incorrect information to the SSS could lead to delays and issues. Be sure that all the information and requirements on your application form are accurate and consistent before submitting it. Also, be sure to double-check the information presented to you at the biometrics booth.

Wear Appropriate Clothes

“Prepare for your UMID appointment as if it were a passport appointment by dressing appropriately. Please avoid wearing tank tops and sleeveless shirts at the photo booth. If you are wearing colored contact lenses, large earrings, or glasses, please remove them from the photo.”

Observe Health and Safety Protocols at the Application Site

Though the mandate to wear face masks has been lifted, the pandemic continues. In order to be on the safe side, it is advisable to continue wearing a mask. Bring your own pen and sanitize your hands frequently, especially after biometric capture.

Conclusion

There are several advantages to obtaining a UMID card. In the first place, one government ID can replace multiple government cards. Furthermore, the card allows easy access to government benefits. To avoid errors and misunderstandings, ensure all documents are complete and double-check all details provided. Get in touch with us to schedule a hassle-free appointment.