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.
LTO Restriction Code Groups
Complete LTO Restriction Code Table
| Code | Vehicle Type | License Required |
|---|
| 1 | Motorcycles and motorbikes | Non-Professional or Professional |
| 2 | Cars, jeepneys, UV Express, light vehicles up to 4,500 kg GVW | Non-Professional or Professional |
| 3 | Trucks, buses, heavy vehicles over 4,500 kg GVW | Professional |
| 4 | Heavy equipment (bulldozers, cranes, forklifts) | Professional |
| 5 | Articulated vehicles (trailer trucks, semi-trucks) | Professional |
| 6 | Special vehicles (fire trucks, emergency vehicles) | Professional |
| 7 | Motorcycles with sidecar only | Non-Professional or Professional |
| 8 | Automatic transmission vehicles only | Non-Professional or Professional |
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:
- 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.
- Written Exam: You take the LTO computerized theoretical exam covering traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.
- 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).
- 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:
- Prepare requirements: Valid driver's license, one government-issued ID, medical certificate (Form 1), and the applicable fee.
- 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).
- 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).
- Pay fees: License amendment fees range from ₱100 to ₱585 depending on the transaction type and professional vs. non-professional classification.
- 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.
Most Common Codes for Non-Professional Drivers
The vast majority of Filipino non-professional license holders carry Restriction Code 1 (motorcycles) and/or Restriction Code 2 (cars and light vehicles up to 4,500 kg). If you passed your driving test on a manual car, you will have Code 2. If you only tested on an automatic, you will have Code 2 + Code 8 (automatic transmission only). Code 1 is added separately when you apply and test for a motorcycle.
Check your license card — locate the "Restriction" field and note your codes Match each code number to the vehicle types in the table above Never drive a vehicle type not listed under your restriction codes If you drive an automatic-only (Code 8), do NOT operate a manual transmission vehicle Planning to drive a motorcycle? Apply for Code 1 at any LTO district office Planning to drive trucks or buses? You need a Professional license + Code 3 Prepare a medical certificate before visiting LTO for a restriction code upgrade Practice for the LTO written exam using the free exam reviewer before your appointment LTO Restriction Codes Questions and Answers
What is Restriction Code 2 in the LTO?
Restriction Code 2 authorizes you to drive light vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of up to 4,500 kg. This includes cars, sedans, SUVs, AUVs, jeepneys, FX taxis, and UV Express vans. It is the most common code for non-professional drivers and is issued after passing the practical driving test on a light vehicle.
What does Restriction Code 8 mean on my license?
Restriction Code 8 means you are only allowed to drive vehicles with automatic transmission. This code is added when a license applicant did not pass the manual clutch/gear operation portion of the driving test, or when a person's physical condition prevents safe manual vehicle operation. To remove this restriction, you must take and pass a new practical driving test on a manual vehicle at an LTO office.
Can I drive a motorcycle if I only have Restriction Code 2?
No. Motorcycles require Restriction Code 1. Even if you have a valid driver's license with Code 2, driving a motorcycle without Code 1 is a violation and can result in fines and license suspension. You must apply for Code 1 separately and pass a motorcycle driving test at an LTO district office.
How much does it cost to upgrade my LTO restriction code?
The fee for adding or upgrading a restriction code at the LTO typically ranges from ₱100 to ₱585, depending on the transaction type and whether you hold a professional or non-professional license. Additional fees may apply for the practical driving test. Check the LTO official fee schedule or contact your district office for the current rate.
What are the penalties for driving outside my restriction code?
Driving outside your restriction code is a traffic violation. Penalties include fines of ₱3,000 to ₱5,000, demerit points under the LTO Traffic Violation System, possible license suspension, and vehicle impoundment. Repeat violations carry heavier penalties. Always carry your license and drive only vehicles covered by your restriction codes.
Do I need a professional license to get Restriction Code 3 or 4?
Yes. Restriction Code 3 (trucks/buses over 4,500 kg) and Code 4 (heavy equipment) both require a Professional Driver's License. To qualify, you must pass the professional license written exam and a practical driving test using the appropriate heavy vehicle or equipment. Non-professional license holders cannot obtain Codes 3, 4, or 5.