Philippine Driver's License Restriction Codes 1-8 Explained
Confused about what your driver's license lets you drive? Philippine licenses use restriction codes 1-8 to specify the vehicle classes you're authorized for. This page decodes all 8 codes with examples.
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All 8 Restriction Codes
Code 1 — Motorcycles / Motorized tricycles
Description: Authorizes the holder to drive motorcycles and motorized tricycles only.
Vehicle weight: L1, L2, L3 vehicles
Typical drivers: Motorcycle riders, tricycle drivers
Code 2 — Vehicles up to 4,500 kg GVW
Description: Authorizes the holder to drive cars, vans, and SUVs with gross vehicle weight up to 4,500 kg.
Vehicle weight: Up to 4,500 kg GVW
Typical drivers: Most private car drivers
Code 3 — Vehicles above 4,500 kg GVW
Description: Authorizes the holder to drive heavy vehicles weighing more than 4,500 kg gross vehicle weight.
Vehicle weight: Above 4,500 kg GVW
Typical drivers: Truck drivers, bus drivers
Code 4 — Articulated vehicles up to 4,500 kg GVW
Description: Authorizes driving of articulated (trailer-type) light vehicles up to 4,500 kg.
Vehicle weight: Articulated, up to 4,500 kg
Typical drivers: Light delivery trailers
Code 5 — Articulated vehicles above 4,500 kg GVW
Description: Authorizes driving of large articulated trucks (semi-trailers, container trucks) above 4,500 kg.
Vehicle weight: Articulated, above 4,500 kg
Typical drivers: Cargo truck drivers, port truck operators
Code 6 — Public transport up to 5,000 kg GVW
Description: Authorizes the operation of public utility vehicles (jeepneys, multicabs) up to 5,000 kg.
Vehicle weight: Up to 5,000 kg, public
Typical drivers: Jeepney drivers, UV Express drivers
Code 7 — Public transport up to 12,000 kg GVW
Description: Authorizes operation of medium public transport vehicles up to 12,000 kg.
Vehicle weight: 5,001-12,000 kg, public
Typical drivers: Mid-sized bus drivers
Code 8 — Public transport above 12,000 kg GVW
Description: Authorizes operation of large public transport (buses, large jeepneys) above 12,000 kg.
Vehicle weight: Above 12,000 kg, public
Typical drivers: City bus, provincial bus drivers
How to Read Your License Restriction
Your physical license shows your restrictions as numbers. For example:
- "1, 2" — You can drive motorcycles AND light vehicles up to 4,500 kg
- "2" — Light vehicles only (most common for new drivers)
- "1, 2, 3" — Full range from motorcycles through heavy trucks
- "6, 8" — Public utility (jeepneys, buses) — Professional license
Difference: Old Restriction Codes vs New DL Codes
The Philippines is transitioning from numbered restriction codes to letter-based DL codes (A, B, C, D system). Both currently coexist:
| Old Code | New DL Code | Vehicle |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | A / A1 | Motorcycle |
| 2 | B / B1 | Light vehicles up to 4,500 kg |
| 3 | B2 / C | Heavy vehicles |
| 4-5 | BE / CE | Articulated (trailers) |
| 6-8 | D | Public utility |
How to Upgrade Your Restrictions
To drive a vehicle class you're not currently licensed for:
- Submit application at LTO — Bring current license, ID, medical certificate
- Take driving lessons — At an accredited driving school for the new class
- Pass theoretical and practical exams — At LTO or accredited testing center
- Pay the fee — Varies by code being added
- Receive new license — Track via LTO Tracker
Common Restriction Code Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What restriction code lets me drive a private car?
Code 2 (or new DL code B/B1) authorizes you to drive light vehicles up to 4,500 kg gross vehicle weight — this covers all private cars, vans, and SUVs.
Can I add motorcycle to my existing car license?
Yes. Apply at LTO to add Code 1 (or DL code A/A1) to your license. Requires motorcycle driving school certification, theoretical exam, and practical test.
Do I need a Professional license to drive Grab/Uber?
Yes. Ride-hailing services (Grab, Joyride) require Professional license with appropriate codes (typically 6 for sedan ride-hail). Non-Professional licenses are for private use only.
What's the minimum age for each restriction code?
Code 1 (motorcycle): 16 years for student permit, 17 for full. Code 2 (light vehicle): 17 student, 18 full. Higher codes (3, 6-8) typically require 21+ years and prior driving experience.
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