LTO Cracks Down on Fraudulent Driving Schools in the PH

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has intensified its campaign against fraudulent driving schools across the country, penalizing multiple institutions for issuing Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) and Practical Driving Course (PDC) certificates without proper training.

According to LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II, the agency discovered that 205 driving schools had violated regulations by falsifying records, allowing applicants to secure certificates without attending the required lessons. Mendoza emphasized, “We have long issued a warning that illegal acts like this can no longer be tolerated because the lives of road users are at stake.”

Mandatory Driving Courses Aimed at Road Safety
As part of the government’s road safety initiative, the LTO requires aspiring drivers to complete a 15-hour Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) and an eight-hour Practical Driving Course (PDC) before obtaining a license. These courses equip drivers with knowledge on traffic laws, responsible driving, and vehicle operation.

However, a Commission on Audit (COA) report revealed that 189 driving schools across six regions were granted LTO accreditation despite failing to meet training and facility requirements. The COA stated, “The actual condition of these sites is not only inconsistent with the memorandum circular but also with the representations made by the regional accreditation committees in their inspection reports.”

According to a report from Manila Bulletin, the LTO penalized 32 driving schools in Metro Manila and Central Luzon, some for up to six months, and imposed fines reaching ₱1 million for involvement in fraudulent transactions related to the issuance of TDC and PDC certificates.

Violators Face Suspension and Fines
Seven driving instructors and multiple motor vehicle dealers were sanctioned for their involvement in falsifying training records.

LTO Central Luzon Regional Director Ronnie Montejo confirmed that 17 driving schools and seven instructors in the region were penalized, while another driving school remains under preventive suspension pending further investigation. Meanwhile, LTO National Capital Region Director Roque Verzosa III reported that 15 driving schools in Metro Manila were sanctioned for similar violations.

Public Awareness and Free Driving Courses
To encourage legitimate driver education, the LTO has launched free theoretical driving courses in select provinces, including Biliran, where a recent program saw a 98% turnout. Carmenia Caballes, head of the LTO Naval District Office, noted that the initiative aims to improve road safety and awareness of traffic rules among motorists.

According to a report from the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), the free TDC initiative has been widely successful, with local officials noting an increase in participation among young drivers eager to learn proper road regulations.

The agency continues to tighten regulations to ensure that only properly trained drivers receive licenses, aiming for a safer and more responsible driving culture nationwide.