The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has announced a three-month extension for driver’s licenses, conductor’s licenses, student permits, and vehicle registrations set to expire in April 2026, citing government efforts to ease the burden on motorists amid a continuing fuel crisis.
In an interview on DZRH’s Dos Por Dos, LTO Chief Asec. Markus Lacanilao said the directive came from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) under Secretary Giovanni Lopez, following the instruction of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
He said the measure aims to help Filipinos struggling with rising fuel prices and economic pressures by allowing them more time before renewing their documents without penalty.
“Meron pong extension of validity of registration, driver’s license, conductor’s license, student permit na mag-e-expire po ng April 2026. Meron po silang three months,” Lacanilao said.
Under the policy, motorists whose licenses or registrations expire in April 2026 will remain valid for an additional three months. During this period, they will not be penalized if they continue using their licenses and registered vehicles.
Lacanilao said the extension particularly benefits public transport operators and those transporting essential goods, including agricultural products.
“Malaking tulong po sa kanila yan,” he said.
He added that renewal of a driver’s license costs ₱585 for the card, while medical examinations are paid separately and are not covered by the LTO.
He also noted that some renewal programs, such as the “Love for All” initiative of First Lady Liza Marcos, offer free processing for qualified applicants.
The LTO Chief further clarified that even in cases of road accidents involving recently expired licenses within the covered extension period, the documents will still be considered valid and legal.
“Wala pong problema yun. Valid po yun. Legal po yun,” he said, emphasizing that the extension is backed by a formal memorandum from the DOTr to ensure motorists are protected during the transition period.
The LTO said the extension takes effect this April and gives motorists the option to renew within the three-month grace period depending on their circumstances.
