The Motorist guide to lost driver's license requirements in 2026

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing a Lost Driver's License

Step 1: Execute an Affidavit of Loss

Legalize your claim immediately. The moment you realize your wallet is missing, visit a commissioned Notary Public. Request a standard Affidavit of Loss for a driver's license. This sworn document formally details the circumstances of how the card was lost. This is the most crucial of all the lost driver's license requirements; without it, the LTO cannot legally invalidate the serial number of your missing card.

Step 2: Ensure Your LTMS Account is Active

Check your digital records. Before heading to the LTO, verify that you can log into your Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) portal account. The LTO transaction evaluator will pull your existing license details, restriction codes, and expiration date directly from this national database to ensure the duplicate perfectly matches the original.

Step 3: Visit the LTO Branch

Submit your documents personally. Proceed to your nearest LTO licensing center. Submit your notarized Affidavit of Loss, a valid government ID, and a duly accomplished Driver’s License Application Form (available at the counter). You cannot send a representative to do this, as the LTO strictly mandates a fresh biometric scan for security purposes.

Step 4: Pay the Duplicate Fee and Claim

Print the replacement. Once the evaluator approves your documents, proceed to the cashier to pay the ₱225 replacement fee (plus a ₱67.63 computer fee). After payment, you will take a new photo and scan your fingerprints. The LTO will then print and release your brand-new physical license card, which retains the exact same expiration date as the one you lost.

EXPERT TIP
If your lost driver's license was already scheduled to naturally expire within the next 60 days, ask the LTO evaluator if you can process a full 'Renewal' instead of a mere 'Duplicate'. Doing this saves you from having to pay LTO fees twice in the same year.

COMMON MISTAKE
If you suddenly find your old driver's license deeply buried in your couch a week after securing the replacement, do not keep both cards. You must physically surrender the old recovered card to the LTO, as its specific serial number has already been deactivated and flagged in the LTMS database.

Losing your physical license is an inconvenience, but the LTO replacement process is highly streamlined. By securing your notarized affidavit immediately and personally visiting the branch for biometrics, you can confidently restore your street-legal status in no time.

FAQs

Q1: What are the main lost driver's license requirements?
You strictly need a notarized Affidavit of Loss, a duly accomplished LTO application form, and one valid government-issued ID.

Q2: How much does it cost to replace a lost LTO license?
The official LTO replacement fee is ₱225, plus a ₱67.63 computer fee. (Notarial fees for the affidavit are separate).

Q3: Can I drive with a picture of my lost license?
Absolutely not. Philippine traffic laws mandate the presentation of the physical card. A digital photo on your phone is invalid and will result in a ₱3,000 fine for driving without a license.

Q4: Do I need a new medical certificate for a lost license?
No, a medical certificate is only required for renewing an expired license or applying for a new one, not for simply printing a duplicate card.

Q5: Can I get a duplicate at a different LTO branch?
Yes, because the LTMS portal is fully centralized, you can apply for a duplicate at any major LTO district office or licensing center nationwide.

Q6: Will my duplicate license have a new expiration date?
No, the replacement card will retain the exact same expiration date and restriction codes as your original lost license.

Q7: Can a relative process my lost license for me?
No, replacing a lost driver's license requires strict personal appearance because the LTO must capture your live fingerprints and a fresh photograph.

Q8: What if my wallet was stolen with all my IDs inside?
You must first secure a Police Blotter report regarding the theft, execute the Affidavit of Loss, and present your original PSA Birth Certificate if no other valid IDs are available.

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