How Long Does an Expired Driver's License Last?

Some states provide a limited grace period, usually fewer than 30 days, during which you can renew your license without penalty after it has expired. If you fail to renew your license for an extended period of time, you may be required to pay a large fine or possibly take another driving test or a comparable agency would allow you to renew your license.

So, whenever you thought “is my license expired?”, come to check it right away. 

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What happens if you drive with a suspended license?

If you were pulled over and your license has just expired, you might get lucky and get a warning and directions to get to the LTO as soon as possible. But, if the officer who pulled you over is not sympathetic that day, or if your license has expired for some time, you may face harsh consequences for failing to renew your license.

Is there a grace period for expired licenses?

According to the LTO, you may apply for license renewal at least one month before the expiration date but no later than two (2) years afterwards.

What causes a driver's license to expire?

States require you to renew your driver's license on a regular basis for a number of reasons, including:

• You can take the eye test to demonstrate that you have adequate vision for driving.

• So that the LTO in your state or a comparable organization can update all of your information in their database with your most recent address, a new photo, and other changes.

• To prevent fraud and put a time limit on someone else using your license fraudulently in the event that it is lost or stolen.

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How to Renew Your Driver’s License in the Philippines?

You can often renew your driver's license in one of two ways: in person at an LTO office, or online. Nevertheless, you'll need to follow a separate set of instructions if you're an OFW or have a delinquent driver's license.

• Be sure to first log into the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) portal using your account. Otherwise, you should register.

• On the LTMS Portal, take the CDE Online Validation Exam. Log in to the site, choose the E-Learning option from the top menu, and then choose "CDE Online Validation Exam" to access the online exam.

• You can print out your CDE certificate if you receive a passing grade (at least 13 right answers).

• Go to the local LTO branch. Get a queue number, then sit still until your name is called.

• You will be given a document for the following phase, the medical exam, once you present your driver's license ID and CDE certificate to the person in charge or LTO officer in the first window after being called.

• Proceed to the medical exam kiosk, present the paperwork to the officer in charge, wait until your time is called, and then pay the necessary payments.

• Return to the LTO officer desk to have your renewal and medical results processed.

• The front desk officer will ask you to log in on the public computer to the LTMS Portal to confirm your information and make sure it is accurate. You can also edit any information if necessary. Be certain to be familiar with your email address and password. The next applicant will have access to your account if you check "Remember Username," as your account may still be logged in. Remember to click the Log Out option when you've finished having the officer confirm your information.

• Attend your biometrics and headshot photography while you wait for your turn. You can also decide to keep your current photo.

• Hold off on getting your driver's license card.

Depending on the line, using the special or priority lane will only take 20 to 30 minutes tops if you are a senior, a person with a disability, or pregnant. There is a designated expedited lane for front runners and riders at several LTO branches.

If not, it can take an hour or longer, especially if you arrive during a busy time. To avoid the crowds, it is advisable to arrive before the opening time.

Final Thoughts

Given that the new license has a 10-year validity period, now is the ideal time to renew your driver's license (provided that you have an untarnished driving record). Even though the renewal process has undergone certain advances (such as the online application), you still need to control your expectations and make good plans, especially having a clear look at 5 years expired driver's license Philippines. In this manner, you'll be able to obtain your new driver's license earlier than anticipated.