For a few years now, electronic driver’s licenses have been available on the Land Transportation Office’s Land Transportation Management System, or what many refer to as the LTMS or LTO Portal.
The LTO—perhaps in light of the many show-cause orders it has been issuing as of late—has posted a reminder to motorists that these e-licenses can be shown to deputized agents and traffic enforcers whenever they get flagged down for a traffic violation or inspection.
Just to be clear, however, the electronic licenses to be shown to authorities must be accessed through the LTMS Portal online. It cannot be a mere screenshot or image of the license—you have to open your account and access your digital ID through your mobile device on the spot.
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The LTO has also reiterated to its enforcers that they must accept e-driver’s licenses in these situations. “Kung ikaw ay hihinto dahil sa paglabag sa batas trapiko o sasailalim sa nakatakdang inspeksyon at wala kang dalang pisikal na lisensya, maaari mong ipakita ang iyong e-driver’s license sa pamamagitan ng LTMS Portal,” said LTO chief Markus Lacanilao.
Now, despite this being the case, know that these electronic licenses should only be treated as alternatives to the physical license, not a complete replacement. These will come in handy during instances that, say, you forgot your license at home, or you lost your wallet that contains it. In any other case, it’s still best to bring your actual ID card whenever you drive out.
