The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has launched the electronic driver’s license (eDL) as it experiences shortages of physical cards.
More than that, launching the LTO Electronic Driver’s License or eDL is part of the national government’s move to improve the digitalization of its agencies to better service Filipinos and promote hassle-free transactions.
But what is the LTO eDL exactly? How can you make one and where can you access it? We’ll answer those questions, and more, in our complete guide. Let’s begin.
Table of Contents
- What is the LTO eDL?
- How can I access my LTO Electronic Driver’s License?
- Frequently asked questions
- Is the LTO digital driver’s license free?
What is the LTO eDL?
The LTO Electronic Driver’s License (eDL) is the digital version of your official physical driver’s license. Unlike the plastic card, having this digital format — stored in a secure platform — is much easier to keep and access as all you need is an electronic device like a smartphone or laptop.
According to the LTO, it can be accepted as an alternative to the physical driver’s license card. The use of eDL and its rules will be effective starting July 11, 15 days since it was made public.
What is the difference between the physical and electronic Driver’s License?
Almost nothing, other than the most obvious one: the format. The physical card lets you instantly present it to a law enforcer or as a valid ID just by pulling it out of your wallet. But if you left it at home or lost it, you can always use the digital driver’s license by accessing it on your mobile device.
That said, eDL and physical license holders have the same privileges and responsibilities. They should also follow the same rules and regulations and will face the same fines, fees, and penalties.
Am I eligible to use LTO eDL?
Existing and new driver’s license holders are qualified to access the new LTO eDL module.
How can I access my LTO Electronic Driver’s License?
Here’s a quick and easy guide on accessing your LTO eDL.
Step 1: Access your LTMS portal account, which you should already have if you’re a new driver’s license holder or just renewed your license.
If not, here’s how to create one.
Step 2: From the dashboard, click Digital ID.
Step 3: Here you’ll see the exact digital copy of your driver’s license. You can see the backside by clicking the button on the bottom right of the screen, next to the QR Code button.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some of the things you should know about the new LTO eDL.
Can I use my LTO eDL when apprehended by enforcers?
Yes. The eDL is considered a legitimate alternative to the physical driver’s license card. So, law enforcement and traffic enforcers can accept it as a valid identification of the license owner.
The law enforcer or deputized agent can check if the eDL is valid by scanning the bar code using their handheld device.
Can I use screenshots of my LTO digital license?
No. Any saved pictures or screenshots of eDL will not be accepted by any law enforcement personnel or deputized agent when you’re apprehended. You may have to open your LTMS portal and access the eDL in front of the enforcer to ensure its legitimacy.
Is the LTO digital driver’s license free?
Yes. Existing and new Driver’s License holders will get the eDL version for free via the LTMS portal.
That’s it. Have any questions about LTO’s electronic driver’s license? Let us know in the comments and we’ll try to help you out.