Wednesday, December 19, 2012

How to Apply for a Driver's License in Davao City

 Don't Be Afraid Do It Your Own, Here's A Guide, Don't Deal With Fixer.


Do you have a driver's license? If not, are you planning to apply for one? I just recently obtained a driver's license and find the process to be an arduous one. Please note that there are different processes involved when you are trying to apply for a renewal of your driver's license or if it is your first time doing so.

There are two options for where you can file a driver's license application and driver's license renewal in Davao City: 1) the main LTO branch at Quimpo Blvd for driver's license application and First time driver's license renewal or 2) the LTO Branch at SM City Mall. However, all second time and so on driver's license renewals must be done at LTO Branch at SM City Mall for faster and more comfortable place for renewal. Obviously, the processing for license renewals are easier and faster as compared to when it is your first time.

I expected it is going to be a long process and know for sure that there will be a long queue at the Land Transportation Office branch. I found out that you need to have basic documents for identification such as my birth certificate. Aside from the birth certificate, new applications must also bring a guardian's identification, especially those who are below 16 years of age.

Before going to the LTO branch office, though, I would suggest you undergo medical test and drug test first. The results of these tests are required by the LTO accredit centers before proceeding to the next step in your application for a driver's license. The next step is to obtain the application form and fill it up with the personal details needed to produce your license records.

Once you are done filling out the application form, you will be directed to this room wherein you would have to have your picture taken. This is free and you do not have to pay anything for the pictures. However, you will be asked to pay for the exam fee. This exam comes in two formats: written and drive test exam. Naturally, the written exam is used to gauge your understanding of basic to complex traffic rules that are vital in real-life driving situations. Meanwhile, the drive test exam is designed to assess your skill as a driver before you are allowed to go on the road.

By this point, you simply have to wait for your name to be called and you must go to the next window for the releasing of your driver's license. The process can be slow or fast, depending on the volume of people that are present by the time of the application. But if you brought a complete set of documents with you and you have passed the corresponding exams, then you should be able to get your license fairly quickly even during your first application.

When applying for a driver's license, avoid passing through fixers. Aside from the fact that they ask you for double or triple the amount that you need to pay when getting a driver's license, there is also a risk that your license will be taken away from you or that you will be charged for it. Do not be intimidated by the exam because it will also benefit you to become a more efficient driver.

2 comments:

  1. Thanks for this post Erica. Although we're in different cities, these tips have helped. Trying to get a driver license here in Vancouver has become quite difficult recently. Thanks again.

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