How to Replace a Lost Driver's License
If your driver's license has been lost, stolen, damaged, or defaced, you can apply for a duplicate/replacement at any LTO District or Extension Office. The replacement process is straightforward and can usually be completed within the same day.
Overview
- Cost: Approximately ₱585 – ₱808 (same as renewal fees)
- Timeline: Same day, typically 1–2 hours
- Key Fact: The replacement license retains the same expiration date as the original
When to Apply for a Replacement
- License is lost or stolen
- License is damaged or defaced (unreadable)
- License card is broken or cracked
- Name or details need correction (separate process)
Requirements
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Affidavit of Loss | Notarized; required for lost or stolen licenses |
| Police Report | If stolen; recommended but not always required |
| Medical Certificate | From an LTO-accredited clinic |
| Drug Test Result | From an LTO-accredited testing facility |
| Valid Government ID | 2 IDs recommended (e.g., passport, UMID, postal ID) |
| Photocopy of Lost License | If available; helpful but not required |
| 1x1 ID Photo | Recent photo with white background |
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Execute Affidavit of Loss
- Go to any notary public office near you
- State the circumstances of how your license was lost or stolen
- Have the affidavit notarized (cost: approximately ₱100 – ₱300)
- Bring your CTC (Community Tax Certificate / cedula) for notarization
If stolen: Also file a police report at the nearest police station. This serves as additional documentation and may be required by LTO.
Step 2: Get Medical Certificate
- Visit an LTO-accredited medical clinic (usually located near LTO offices)
- Undergo physical and visual examination
- Complete the required drug test
- Cost: approximately ₱300 – ₱500 for both medical exam and drug test
Step 3: Go to LTO Office
- Visit any LTO District or Extension Office
- It is recommended to book an appointment via the LTMS portal (portal.lto.gov.ph) to save time
- Walk-in applicants are also accepted but may face longer waiting times
Step 4: Submit Application for Duplicate
- Present your Affidavit of Loss to the application window
- Submit your medical certificate and drug test result
- Present your valid government IDs
- Fill out the application form for duplicate license
- The LTO officer will verify your records in the system
Step 5: Biometrics and Verification
- Your photo will be captured
- Your signature will be digitally recorded
- Your fingerprints will be scanned
- Personal information will be verified against the LTO database
Step 6: Pay and Receive Replacement License
- Pay the required fees at the cashier window: ₱585 (Non-Professional) or ₱808 (Professional)
- Receive your new replacement license card
- The replacement license will have the same expiration date as your original license (no extension is granted)
Done! Your replacement license is valid immediately. You can use it right away for driving and as a valid government ID.
Fees Breakdown
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Duplicate License Fee (Non-Professional) | ₱585 |
| Duplicate License Fee (Professional) | ₱808 |
| Computer Fee | ₱67.63 |
| Medical Exam & Drug Test | ₱300 – ₱500 |
| Affidavit of Loss (Notarization) | ₱100 – ₱300 |
For Damaged or Defaced License
If your license is damaged, defaced, or broken (but not lost), the process is slightly different:
- No Affidavit of Loss needed — since you still have the license
- Bring the damaged license to the LTO office as proof
- The rest of the process (medical certificate, application, biometrics, payment) is the same
- The damaged license card will be surrendered to LTO
Important Warning
- Never use a fake or forged driver's license — this is a serious criminal offense under Philippine law and can result in imprisonment and heavy fines.
- Report a stolen license to the police immediately — to prevent identity theft or misuse of your license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive while waiting for my replacement license?
Yes, but you should carry your Affidavit of Loss and the official receipt from LTO as temporary proof that you have applied for a replacement. These documents can serve as evidence that you are a licensed driver while your new card is being processed.
Does the expiration date change on the replacement license?
No. The replacement license retains the same expiration date as your original license. No extension is granted for a duplicate. If your license is near expiration, you may want to renew instead.
Can I apply for a replacement at any LTO office?
Yes, you can apply for a duplicate license at any LTO District or Extension Office nationwide. You are not limited to the office where your original license was issued.
What if my records are not in the LTO system?
Bring any supporting documents you have, such as a photocopy of your lost license, old LTO receipts, or any other proof of your previous license. LTO may need to verify your records manually, which could take additional time.
How long does the replacement process take?
The replacement process is typically completed on the same day, usually within 1 to 2 hours. However, processing time may vary depending on the LTO office and the number of applicants.
Do I need to retake the written or practical driving exam?
No. You do not need to retake any exams for a duplicate license. The replacement is based on your existing records in the LTO database.
What if my license is expired and also lost?
If your license has already expired, you will need to apply for a license renewal instead of a duplicate. The renewal process for an expired license requires the same documents plus additional clearances if it has been expired for more than 2 years.
Important Reminders
- Book an online appointment via the LTMS portal (portal.lto.gov.ph) to avoid long queues
- Arrive early at the LTO office, preferably in the morning, for faster processing
- Bring original documents — photocopies alone are not accepted for primary requirements
- No fixers — LTO strictly prohibits fixers; transact directly with LTO personnel only
- Keep a photocopy of your license — take a photo or photocopy of your license for future reference in case of loss
- Check for pending violations — settle any traffic violations before applying for a replacement to avoid delays
Need Help?
Contact LTO
- LTO Hotline: (02) 7790-8140
- Customer Service: 1-3424 (Smart)
- Email: info@lto.gov.ph
- Website: www.lto.gov.ph
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general informational purposes only. The requirements, steps, fees, and procedures mentioned here may vary depending on the LTO Licensing Center you visit. We recommend visiting your nearest LTO Licensing Center first to confirm the specific requirements and process before preparing your documents.