LTO License Restriction Codes Philippines — Complete Guide 2026

What Are LTO Restriction Codes?

LTO restriction codes are numeric codes printed on your Philippine driver's license that specify which types of vehicles you are legally permitted to operate. Every driver's license issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) carries one or more restriction codes that match the vehicle categories you qualified for during your licensing examination.

These codes appear in the "Restriction" field on your LTO driver's license card. If your license shows "1, 2" for example, you are authorized to drive motorcycles and light vehicles (cars, jeepneys, FX taxis) with a gross vehicle weight of up to 4,500 kg. Driving a vehicle outside your restriction code is a traffic violation and can result in fines, license suspension, or confiscation.

Restriction codes are part of the LTO's licensing system under Republic Act No. 4136 (Land Transportation and Traffic Code) and its implementing rules. The LTO periodically updates the restriction code system, so it's important to know the current codes and what they cover. For a broader overview, see the LTO Complete Guide and the Non-Professional License Guide.

Complete LTO Restriction Code Table

How Restriction Codes Are Assigned

Your restriction codes are determined during the LTO licensing process based on the vehicle type you applied for and the practical driving test you take. Here is how the process works:

1. Application: When you apply for a student permit or driver's license, you specify the vehicle category (e.g., motorcycle only, or light vehicle). See LTO License Requirements for the full checklist.
2. Written Exam: You take the LTO computerized theoretical exam covering traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.
3. Practical/Driving Test: You demonstrate vehicle operation at an LTO testing center. The vehicle type used in your test determines which restriction code you qualify for. If you only test on an automatic car, you receive Code 2 with Code 8 restriction (automatic only).
4. License Issuance: The LTO encodes the appropriate restriction codes on your license card based on your test results.

Penalties for Driving Outside Your Restriction Code

Driving a vehicle not covered by your restriction code is a traffic violation under LTO regulations. Penalties include:

• Fine: ₱3,000 to ₱5,000 per violation depending on the offense and whether it is a repeat violation.
• License suspension: The LTO may suspend your license for a period determined by the number of violations on your record.
• Impounding: The vehicle may be impounded.
• Demerit points: Under the LTO's Traffic Violation System (TVS), restriction code violations carry demerit points that affect your license renewal eligibility.

For a full breakdown of LTO traffic fines and penalties, visit the LTO Traffic Violations Guide.

How to Upgrade Your Restriction Code

You can add restriction codes to your license at any LTO district office. Here is the step-by-step process:

1. Prepare requirements: Valid driver's license, one government-issued ID, medical certificate (Form 1), and the applicable fee.
2. File application: Go to the LTO district office and file a Change/Upgrade of Restriction Code application (use the standard License Renewal/Application form and indicate the upgrade).
3. Take practical test: You must pass a practical driving test for the new vehicle category (e.g., motorcycle test for Code 1, heavy vehicle test for Code 3).
4. Pay fees: License amendment fees range from ₱100 to ₱585 depending on the transaction type and professional vs. non-professional classification.
5. Receive updated license: Your restriction codes are updated and a new license card is issued (or a temporary license is provided while the card is being printed).

Preparing for the LTO exam? Use the LTO Exam Reviewer to practice with real exam-style questions.