List Of LTO Driver License Restriction Codes And Meanings
List Of LTO Driver License Restriction Codes And Meanings. If you obtain a driver’s license, you should know which types of motor vehicles you are legally permitted to drive. In this case, the numerical restriction codes from the old driver’s license apply. Nevertheless, on July 1, 2021, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) implemented an alphanumeric code set called Driver’s License (DL) codes and condition codes to identify the type of vehicle you are licensed to operate.
There are now nine new DL codes representing the general types of vehicles, ranging from A to CE. Each DL code is further divided into alphanumeric subcategories known as Vehicle Category codes that indicate the type of vehicles that can be operated by a particular DL code holder. These Vehicle Category codes appear on the back of the license to the right of the DL codes. Each alphanumeric code set corresponds to a particular type of vehicle that may be operated by the license holder.
What is a Driver’s License (DL) code?
A driver’s license code (DL code) is an alphanumeric code used by the LTO to replace the old numerical driver’s license restriction codes. The standard is divided into nine different categories, ranging from A to CE, to correspond to the general types of vehicles. Under each of these nine categories of DL, there are subcategories called Vehicle Category codes which identify the specific type of vehicle that may be operated legally in the Philippines by the license holder.
There are various DL and condition codes that appear on a driver’s license, regardless of whether it is a professional or a non-professional license. They enable the authorities to determine whether the license holder is authorized to operate certain types of vehicles. Additionally, it alerts them if a driver is operating a vehicle they should not be driving on Philippine roads, which may result in hefty fines and violations from the LTO. The violations that result from operating vehicles that you are not legally authorized to operate may prevent you from obtaining a 10-year validity license or may result in your vehicle being impounded.
What are the Different Driver’s License (DL) Codes and Vehicle Category Codes, and What Does Each Mean
As a guide, here are the nine Driver’s License (DL) codes as well as the codes for the respective vehicle categories under each code.
DL Code A: Motorcycle
It is the motorcycle license code A that is reserved for drivers who intend to operate a motorcycle. Any motorcycle model sold in the Philippines is covered by this code, including Mio, Aerox, NMax, Smash, Barako, etc., as well as all types of transmissions from automatic to semi-automatic to manual.
A license holder with DL Code A may also be eligible to drive the following vehicle category codes:
| Code | Vehicle Type | Maximum Design Speed |
|---|---|---|
| L1 | Two-wheeled vehicle | Not more than 50 kph |
| L2 | Three-wheeled vehicle | Not more than 50 kph |
| L3 | Two-wheeled vehicle | More than 50 kph |
DL Code A1 – Tricycle
All three-wheeled motor vehicles, including motorcycles with sidecars, are included in this DL Code. In addition to three-wheeled vehicles, this license code permits drivers to operate transport tricycles and e-tricycles such as the Bajaj Re, the Yamaha Tricity4 and the tuk-tuk (or bokyo). The code covers not only three-wheeled motor vehicles, but also four-wheeled motor vehicles with a limited unladen mass, meaning that they are limited in weight when not carrying passengers or other items, as well as maximum design speed.
Additionally, all license holders with DL Code A1 have the option to acquire legal permission to drive the following vehicle categories:
| Code | Vehicle Type | Maximum Speed | Weight Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| L4 | Motorcycle with sidecar | ≤ 50 kph | Not specified |
| L5 | Three-wheeled symmetrically arranged vehicle | > 50 kph | Not specified |
| L6 | Four-wheeled vehicle | ≤ 45 kph | ≤ 350 kg (unladen mass) |
| L7 | Four-wheeled vehicle | ≤ 45 kph | ≤ 550 kg (unladen mass) |
DL Code B – Passenger Car
There is a Driver’s License Code applicable to all models of cars with up to 8 seats and no more than 5000 kg in mass. A license holder with DL Code B is permitted to drive hatchbacks, coupes, sedans, and SUVs.
Under it, there is only one Vehicle Category Code, which is M1.
M1
All vehicles with fewer than eight seats and a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) that does not exceed 5000 kilograms are classified in this category.
DL Code B1 – Passenger Van or Jeepney
The DL Code covers all popular passenger van models, such as Honda Odyssey, Toyota Hiace, Ford Transit, etc., as well as the popular mass transit jeepney model.
In the Vehicle Category Code under B1, the following items are included:
M2
The Vehicle Category Code applies to passenger vehicles with more than eight seats and a gross vehicle weight of less than 5000 kilograms.
DL Code B2 – Light Commercial Vehicle
The DL code allows drivers to operate all four-wheeled cargo vehicles for the purpose of transporting goods or other items for business or commercial purposes. A number of vehicle models fall under this category, including the Suzuki Carry, Hyundai H100, Isuzu Travis, and Mitsubishi L300.
There is a Vehicle Category code of N1 under B2.
N1
The vehicle category code VCT refers to vehicles used for the transport of goods, with a maximum gross vehicle weight (GVW) not exceeding 3500 kilograms.
DL Code C – Heavy Commercial Vehicle
A driver with this DL Code is permitted to operate large trucks, including garbage trucks, containers, and fire trucks.
The vehicle category codes for this DL code are as follows:
| Category | Usage | Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) |
|---|---|---|
| N2 | Carriage of goods | More than 3,500 kg but less than 12,000 kg |
| N3 | Carriage of goods | Exceeding 12,000 kg |
DL Code D – Passenger Bus
This DL Code is used on the licenses of drivers whose licenses are valid in the Philippines for any bus model.
A Vehicle Category Code D is the only one available under the DL Code:
M3
A vehicle classified as an M3 has more than eight seats and a maximum gross vehicle weight exceeding 5000 kilograms.
DL Code BE – Light Articulated Vehicle
An individual with a driver’s license with this DL code is permitted to drive light articulated vehicles with permanent or semi-permanent pivot joints with a gross vehicle weight less than 5,000 lbs, such as cars with trailers.
This DL Code consists of the following vehicle categories:
| Code | Description |
|---|---|
| O1 | Articulated vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of less than 750 kg. |
| O2 | Articulated vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) not exceeding 3500 kg. |
DL Code CE – Heavy Articulated Vehicle
The only difference between this DL Code and the prior one is that this DL Code requires a higher Gross Vehicle Weight. Listed below are the vehicle categories under this DL code
| Code | Vehicle Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| O3 | Medium Articulated Vehicles | Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) over 3,500 kg but under 10,000 kg |
| O4 | Heavy Articulated Vehicles | Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) over 10,000 kg |
LTO Driver’s License Restriction Codes – Video Guide
Why it is Important to Know DL Codes
If you know the Driver’s License (DL) code for the type of vehicle you are licensed to operate, you will be able to avoid facing penalties and charges if you are pulled over driving an illegal vehicle. Besides saving time and money, this solution also eliminates the possibility of receiving hefty LTO fines and the possibility of your vehicle being impounded. Additionally, the license remains valid for a period of 10 years upon renewal.
REVISED DRIVER’S LICENSE In PDF
What are the equivalent DL codes to previous restriction codes?
Prior to the publication of the new restriction codes, the classification of vehicles was based solely on the Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) and the clutch type. It is therefore possible for the old system to be misinterpreted. As a result of the new DL codes, the LTO has implemented a more comprehensive restriction system, which takes into account not only the GVW and clutch type, but also the number of seats and maximum vehicle design speed in order to create a more standard restriction system.
Listed below are the equivalent DL codes with the old LTO restriction codes, according to LTO:
| Old Restriction Code | Allowed Vehicle Type | New DL Code Equivalent | Transmission Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| RC 1 | Motorbikes or motorized tricycles | A and A1 | All |
| RC 2 | Vehicles up to 4500 kg GVW | B, B1, B2 | Manual only |
| RC 3 | Vehicles over 4500 kg GVW | C and D | Manual only |
| RC 4 | Vehicles up to 4500 kg GVW | B, B1, B2 | Automatic only |
| RC 5 | Vehicles over 4500 kg GVW | C and D | Automatic only |
| RC 6 | Articulated vehicles with GVW of 1600 kg & below | BE | All |
| RC 7 | Articulated vehicles with GVW of 1601 kg to 4500 kg | BE | All |
| RC 8 | Articulated vehicles with GVW of 4501 kg & above | CE | All |
Where can I find LTO driver’s license codes?
New DL codes can be found on the back of your driver’s license directly to the right of each DL code. Each DL code contains three components:
How to Read the New Driver’s License Codes
The first list of alphanumeric codes indicates the types of vehicles you may operate. In the second set of codes, you will find the classification of licenses. The term “PL” refers to a professional license, whereas the term “NP” refers to a non-professional license. There is a final set of alphanumeric codes in the line which indicate the type of transmission or clutch. A manual transmission is referred to as a “MT”, while an automatic transmission is referred to as an “AT”. Please note that if the restriction indicates “MT,” you may operate both manual and automatic transmissions, but if it indicates “AT,” you may only drive automatic transmissions.
New LTO Condition Codes
Aside from the restriction codes, LTO also introduced condition codes aimed at identifying drivers’ conditions and helping them drive safely, based on their needs and ability to operate a vehicle, as determined by a LTO driver evaluation officer. Unlike the old condition codes, which were composed of letters (A, B, C, D, E), the new condition codes are composed of numbers (1, 2, 3, 4).
The following is an updated list of condition codes that may or may not be indicated on your driver’s license:
| Condition Code | Previous Code | Requirement | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | A | Must wear corrective lenses | For drivers who need eyeglasses or contact lenses to drive safely. |
| 2 | B and C | Drive only with special equipment for limbs | For drivers with upper/lower limb impairments; merged from two older codes. |
| 3 | New | Drive only customized motor vehicles | For drivers with unique disabilities requiring specially designed vehicles. |
| 4 | D | Daylight driving only | Unchanged; allows driving only during daylight hours. |
| 5 | E | Must wear hearing aids | Updated to allow hearing-impaired drivers to operate vehicles independently. |
LTO Driver’s License Restriction Codes – Video Guide
Important Reminders
Please refer to the following important tips for your reference:
- Restriction Codes 1, 2, and 4 were applicable only to non-professional driver’s licenses used primarily for private vehicles under the old LTO system.
- A professional driving license is required for those who wish to earn a living through driving.
- A new version of DL code restriction codes has been developed based on those used in Europe and the United Kingdom.
- The driver who has been approved to drive a manual transmission (MT) vehicle may also operate an automatic transmission (AT), whereas the driver who has been approved for driving an automatic transmission (AT) vehicle may not operate a manual transmission vehicle.
- Philippines allows drivers with licenses issued by ASEAN member-state governments to drive.
Renewal and Upgrading Checklist
Here’s a helpful table to track your license status:
| Task | Code 1 | Code 2 | Code 3/4/5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theory & Practical Training | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Medical Exam | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Written Test | Yes | Yes | Required |
| Practical Test | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Pay Fees | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Receive Updated License | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Tips for Staying Within Your Restriction Code
- Never borrow a heavier or bigger vehicle mid-trip always ensure your vehicle matches your restriction code.
- If your job involves driving multiple vehicle types, aim to obtain the highest restriction code you realistically need (e.g., Code 3 or 4).
- Keep your license renewed and check the restriction code expiration date.
- Attend refresher courses regularly to refresh skills, even for vehicles you already drive.
Key Features of the New LTO DL Code System
- 9 DL Codes (A to CE) representing broad vehicle categories.
- Vehicle Category Codes help specify exact vehicle types under each DL code.
- Condition Codes (1–5) identify special driver needs (e.g., corrective lenses, daylight-only driving).
- Alphanumeric system replaces the outdated numerical restriction codes.
- Ensures safer, more accurate licensing based on vehicle weight, speed, and configuration.
FAQs About LTO Driver’s License Restriction Codes
What is a DL Code on a Philippine driver’s license?
Ans: A DL Code is an alphanumeric classification introduced by the LTO to define which type of motor vehicle a person is legally allowed to operate.
Can I drive a manual car if my DL code only shows “AT”?
Ans: No, drivers with an “AT” restriction are only permitted to operate automatic vehicles. “MT” holders can drive both manual and automatic.
Where can I see my DL code on my license?
Ans: DL codes appear on the back of your driver’s license, alongside vehicle category and transmission type information.
What happens if I drive a vehicle outside my DL code?
Ans: You may face fines, risk impoundment, and disqualification from receiving a 10-year license validity if caught driving outside your permitted class.
Are ASEAN licenses valid in the Philippines?
Ans: Yes, licenses issued by other ASEAN countries are recognized for use on Philippine roads.
Conclusion
Understanding your Driver’s License (DL) code is essential for lawful and safe driving in the Philippines. The updated alphanumeric system provides clearer classification and reduces misuse of licenses. By matching DL codes with vehicle types, the LTO enhances road safety and compliance. Always check your code, stay updated on LTO policies, and ensure your license aligns with the vehicle you operate protecting yourself from penalties and ensuring driving privileges for years to come.
