Driving licencePhilippines
20. Driving licence
A driving licence is an official document authorising a person to drive one or more specified categories of motor vehicle. It may contain conditions, restrictions, category codes and expiry dates that determine which vehicles the holder may drive.
Drivers must hold a licence that is valid for the vehicle category and jurisdiction concerned. A licence may be provisional, full, restricted, suspended or withdrawn, and additional qualifications may be required for professional driving.
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Which driving-licence entitlement is needed for an ordinary car in the Philippines?
In the Philippines, an ordinary car requires the relevant LTO driving-licence vehicle category; the codes shown on the licence determine what may be driven. A different entitlement may be needed for motorcycles, heavy vehicles, trailers or passenger transport.
Can a visitor drive in the Philippines using a driving licence issued abroad?
Foreign tourists can generally use a valid foreign driving licence for up to 90 days after arrival, provided it authorises the vehicle and meets Philippine recognition requirements. Longer stays and other circumstances require checking the Land Transportation Office’s rules.
Does an International Driving Permit replace the original licence in the Philippines?
No. An International Driving Permit accompanies the underlying valid driving licence; it does not replace it. Carry both when using an IDP, and check which permit or translation is accepted for your licence and visit.
🔗 gov.uk • UK Government, IDP must accompany valid licence
🔗 gov.uk • UK Government, driving-document requirements in the Philippines

Traffic rules
Philippines