01/07/2026
A viral video of a rider apprehended after presenting a Taiwanese driver's license left many Filipinos wondering whether foreign driver's licenses are valid in the Philippines.
In a 29-second Facebook video, Land Transportation Office Chief Markus Lacanilao was seen inspecting the motorcycle rider's license. He can be heard jokingly asking him, "Nasaan ba tayo?"
This led netizens to believe that a foreign driver's license isn't honored in the Philippines.
However, road safety vlogger Francis Mallari, the original poster, explained that the rider had initially been stopped for not wearing a helmet.
Although not shown in the video, Mallari said officials later found that the motorist's license authorized him to drive cars, not motorcycles.
Because of this, LTO Region IV-A impounded the motorcycle and cited the rider for multiple offenses—though it was not due to his foreign driver's license.
WHEN ARE FOREIGN DRIVER’S LICENSES RECOGNIZED BY THE LTO?
According to Section 21 of Republic Act No. 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, tourists or short-term visitors may legally drive in the Philippines using a valid foreign driver’s license for up to 90 days from their date of arrival.
However, the license must be in English. If not, the holder must carry an official English translation of the license certified by the embassy of the issuing country.
After the 90-day period, foreign license owners who wish to continue driving in the Philippines are required to obtain a Philippine driver’s license through the LTO's conversion process. Those with an expired Philippine driver's license may also use a valid foreign license to renew it.
Mallari reminded motorists that while foreign licenses are recognized under Philippine law, drivers must still comply with local traffic regulations—and operate only the types of vehicles covered by their licenses.
