10-year license only for drivers with spotless record

MANILA, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office reminded motorists that those who committed even a single traffic violation will not be eligible for a driver’s license with 10-year validity once the LTO rolls them out by October 2021.

In a virtual meeting on Wednesday, LTO chief Edgar Galvante said the implementation of the agency’s demerit system has started and those who incurred traffic infractions will only be allowed to have a standard driver’s license with a five-year validity upon renewal.

“Actually the demerit system is already being implemented so drivers that are cited will get equivalent demerit points on record,” Galvante said in mixed English and Filipino.

The LTO started the implementation of a new demerit system for traffic violations last year, which would serve as basis for renewal of driver’s license.

Under Republic Act 10930, the validity of driver’s licenses has been extended from three to five years. The license could be extended up to 10 years if the applicant did not incur any type of traffic violation.

“Even a single demerit point can be considered in disqualifying a driver from availing of a 10-year valid license,” Galvante said, adding this is being done to put premium on motorists who follow traffic rules.