Motorists seeking to renew their licenses must first pass a comprehensive driver’s education (CDE) program before submitting their application, Land Transportation Office (LTO) Assistant Secretary Edgar C. Galvante reminded.
“Ito ay para sa mga magrerenew ng kanilang lisensya, professional man o non-professional. Nirerequire ito ng batas (The CDE is for those who will renew their license whether professional or non-professional. This is required by the law),” Galvante said.
According to Galvante, drivers who will renew their licenses must undergo first a refresher seminar on traffic rules and regulations and road safety as stated under Republic Act Number 10930 signed in 2017 which extended the validity of drivers’ licenses.
“Pangunahing requirement ito para i-entertain ang kanilang applicationf for renewal. Ang payo namin, yung mga due na sa pagrerenew, huwag muna silang magpunta sa LTO kung hindi pa nila nakakamit yung certificates na nagpapatunay na nagtapos sila ng seminar na ‘yon (This is the main requirement to apply for renewal. We advice those who will renew their licenses to obtain first a certificate proving that they have completed the seminar before going to LTO offices),” he added.
To give drivers more time to comply with the CDE requirement, Galvante said they are extending the validity of the existing licenses by two months from the date of expiration.
Materials for the CDE are being offered for free at all LTO offices and through its online platforms such as website and social media pages, while the exam may be taken through the Land Transportation Management System portal, or at driver's education centers in select offices.
“Review the material then take the validating exam ang if they passed, they will be issued a ceritficate that they need to present for license renewal. The course is free of charge,” he added
The course and the exam may also be taken at accredited driving schools but a fee will be charged.
Should a person fail to pass, Galvante said they can retake the seminar as many times as needed.