E-driver’s license valid for violations, says LTO

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) reaffirmed Tuesday that digital driver’s licenses accessed through the agency’s online portal are valid proof of identity and must be honored by traffic enforcers.

LTO chief Assistant Secretary Markus V. Lacanilao said the electronic license, or e-driver’s license, serves as a legal replacement for the physical card under Department of Transportation Order No. 2023-015.

Lacanilao said he has issued a directive to all LTO law enforcers and deputized agents to accept the digital version during roadside inspections or when a motorist is flagged for a traffic violation.

“If you are stopped for a traffic violation or a scheduled inspection and you do not have a physical license, you can present your e-driver’s license through the LTMS portal,” Lacanilao said.

The digital license contains the holder’s personal details as stored in the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS). To be considered valid, the digital license must be accessed and presented through the official LTMS portal or the eGovPH digital services platform.

Motorists can view their digital license once they have applied for or renewed their license via the LTMS.

The agency cited that a mere screenshot or photograph of the license may not be sufficient; enforcers may require the motorist to log in to the portal to verify the document’s authenticity.

The push for digital licenses is part of the agency’s effort to modernize its services and provide a convenient alternative for motorists who may have lost or misplaced their physical cards.