The Land Transportation Office (LTO) announced that it is taking steps to make driver’s licenses more affordable to the public.
LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Jose Arturo Tugade has formed a technical working group to discuss driver's license fees
In a post on its Facebook page, the agency said that LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Jose Arturo Tugade ordered the formation of a technical working group (TWG) over the issue. This will be tasked with reevaluating the existing guidelines about the operation and fees of driving schools and medical clinics.
At present, applicants need to undergo tests administered by driving schools as well as physical examinations conducted by clinics. Passing these requirements will earn them certifications which are part of the process in getting a driver’s license.
The LTO currently charges Php 250 for student permits and Php 685 for full-fledged driver’s licenses. In addition, Republic Act 10930 mandates that applicants must take both a theoretical driving course (TDC) and a practical driving course (PDC) as part of the requirements to get a license with a five-year validity, entailing more fees to be paid.
A standard fee is being proposed for all driving schools and medical clinics
According to Tugade, the agency has been conducting a series of consultations with concerned stakeholders. He adds that the LTO is proposing a reasonable standard fee across all driving schools and medical clinics, noting that all parties concerned are in the process of finalizing the proposed amendments.
“Batid po namin sa LTO ang sentimiyento ng ating mga kababayan kaya naman ito’y amin nang pinag-aaralan para masolusyonan,” Tugade said. “Maaaring sa mga susunod na linggo ay makapagpalabas na kami ng nirebisang panuntunan hinggil dito.”
(We in the LTO are aware of the sentiments of the general public, which is why we are studying the matter for solutions. In the coming weeks, we may be able to release revised guidelines regarding this issue.)
In the meantime, he encourages the public to take advantage of the free TDCs and trainings offered by local government units and other groups working in partnership with the LTO.
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