Online theoretical driving course soon

CEBU, Philippines — The Land Transportation Office (LTO)-7 will soon launch the Online Theoretical Driving Course (OTDC) in Central Visayas following President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s directive to digitalize government services.

“The public will now be given the option to enroll in LTO-accredited driving schools offering Online TDC at their convenience," said LTO-7 Regional Director Glen G. Galario.

Galario said the OTDC will revolutionize driver education in the region by offering a flexible, technology-driven alternative to traditional in-person classes.

The implementation of OTDC represents a significant shift in driving education, allowing individuals, especially professionals and students, to balance their work or academic commitments with the flexibility to pursue this course remotely.

Galario said once implemented, enrollees can enjoy the convenience of taking the OTDC from the comfort of their homes, at their own pace, during their free time, whether at the office or in any location that suits them.

Applicants may visit the LTO website for the list of accredited OTDC providers and proceed with enrolling in the online course, including following instructions for online payment.

The implementation process is underway, with LTO 7 currently reviewing applications from driving schools seeking accreditation as OTDC providers.

“We have yet to finalize the list of accredited driving schools in the region, but we have started receiving their applications to fully implement the new OTDC," said Galario.

Earlier, LTO chief Asst. Secretary Vigor Mendoza II said that the agency is ensuring all transactions with this new online course are aided by technology solutions to verify that the person taking the course is the driver's license applicant.

Galario said that they will soon announce their accredited partners for the OTDC, as well as details about the free OTDC offering. The TDC is a 15-hour module that is mandatory for Student Permit applicants.

As of June 2024, LTO-7 has issued 8,185 TDC certificates through its Malasakit on Wheels - EPatrol Mobile Service program, already reaching 88% of the total certificates issued in 2023.

Galario further said that this digital shift in driving education aims to streamline the licensing process while maintaining educational standards, marking a significant step in the modernization of LTO services in Central Visayas. –/FPL (FREEMAN)