lisensya

It's been 2 months, I think, since my old wallet ate up my driver's license's pic. So basically was driving (on Sundays) with a license without a face. I tried to have it replaced but LTO wouldn't allow me since it's only a few months na lang before I'm due to renew. (FYI: You can have your license renewed 2 months before it expires). Ang sabi ni ateng mabait, and I quote: "Sir, wag ka na lang po papahuli...". And that was the best advice I've received for 2009!!!

Finally, come May 20, I had renewed my license. Once again, I can see my face in my ID!

So how do you get to renew your license?

• go to the nearest lto renewal office - MRT Ayala Station, SM Megamall Bldg A, Farmers Plaza, etc.
• make sure your license expiry is within two months from the day you plan to renew
• bring a photocopy of a valid ID (front and back)
• approach the license evaluator counter with your old license and he/she will be 'evaluating' whether you're entitled for renewal (see first bullet)
• he/she will be giving you a form to fill up and you'll be directed to the medical and drug testing clinic
• in the clinic, you'll be asked to fill up several forms, get your urine sample (for drug testing), and have a doctor evaluate whether you're fit to drive (eye check, BP check, etc.). and by the way, this will cost you P400.
• after getting your med cert, you'll have to go back to the license evaluator to submit the filled-up forms including your med cert and id photocopy.
• then get ready for your mug shot (make sure you've retouched already para di ka magmukhang magpapa 5-6 gaya nung pic sa taas!). also, lakihan ang pirma kasi sobrang liit nya ngayon pag lumabas sa ID.
• renewal will cost you P417.63. bring coins kasi walang tigpipiso ang cashier. for late renewal, there's a corresponding penalty depending on how late you were.
• presto, you 'll be getting your license after 10 minutes (or less I think).