Are you planning to get your driver’s license this 2025?
Do you want to learn how to drive but are worried about the cost of lessons?
This March, female applicants can join the Land Transportation Office (LTO) free Theoretical Driving Course (TDC).
It is open to women 16 years old and above, no matter their background or driving experience.
The program is free of charge and available in many LTO offices nationwide for the entire month of March.
The TDC is a 15-hour mandatory course that you need to complete before applying for a Student Permit.
Once you pass the TDC, you can move on to practical driving lessons and eventually earn your non-professional driver’s license.
This is part of the Philippine Commission on Women’s (PCW) “Serbisyo Para kay Juana” program in celebration of Women’s Month.
It’s a perfect opportunity for women to take the driver’s seat—literally and figuratively!
What is the Free LTO Theoretical Driving Course (TDC)?
The LTO Theoretical Driving Course (TDC) is a pre-requisite for getting a Student Permit.
The course includes 15 hours of classroom-style learning about road safety, traffic laws, and basic driving rules.
By finishing the TDC, you’ll earn a certificate, which you need to apply for your Student Permit.
And for the entire month of March, female applicants can take the course for free.
This program is part of the government’s efforts to empower women through skills training and safer mobility.
There are no hidden fees.
You just need to bring the required documents and show up in person.
Who Can Join the Free LTO TDC?
The free TDC is specifically for female applicants.
Here’s a quick guide to check if you are eligible:
- You must be female.
- You should be at least 16 years old on the date of your registration.
- You must have a valid PSA Birth Certificate as proof of age and identity.
- If you’re married, you need to bring your Marriage Certificate.
- Minors (below 18) must have a Notarized Parent Consent and a copy of the guardian’s valid ID with three signatures.
- You need an Original Certificate of Indigency from your Barangay.
- Having a National ID is a plus but not strictly required.
If you meet these criteria, you can register for the free course at your local LTO office.
What Will You Learn in the Free LTO TDC?
Driving isn’t just about stepping on the gas and turning the wheel.
There’s a lot to learn before you’re ready for the road.
The TDC gives you essential knowledge and skills, including:
- The progress, organization, and operations of the LTO.
- The requirements and process for getting your driver’s license.
- Traffic rules and road signs you need to follow.
- Defensive driving techniques to keep you and others safe.
- Understanding road discipline and proper driving etiquette.
- Scanning for road hazards to avoid crashes.
- Basics of parking and handling vehicle problems.
These lessons will help you become a confident and responsible driver.
Where and When Is the Free LTO TDC Available?
Different LTO offices have different schedules for the free TDC this March.
Here’s an overview of the dates and locations to help you plan:
- LTO Central Office (Quezon City): March 11 to 14
- Parañaque Licensing Branch (NCR): Ongoing, subject to slot availability
- Pili, Camarines Sur: First batch on March 11, second batch on March 12
- Ragay, Camarines Sur: Same dates as Pili
- Legazpi City, Albay: March 18 to 19
- Baguio City: First batch on March 11 to 12, second batch on March 13 to 14
- Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur: First batch March 11 to 12, second batch March 13 to 14
Schedules may change depending on the number of applicants.
It’s best to register early to secure a slot.
How to Register for the Free LTO TDC?
The registration process varies by location.
Here’s a breakdown of how you can sign up depending on where you live:
For NCR Applicants
- Go to the Parañaque Licensing Branch.
- Join their official Viber Community and send a message to register.
For Pili and Ragay, Camarines Sur
- Bring your requirements directly to the LTO office from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m..
- In Ragay, you need to message their official Facebook page first.
- Send your full name and address and wait for instructions.
- Once confirmed, bring your documents to the local office.
For Legazpi City, Albay
- Bring your documents to the LTO Legazpi Office before March 18.
- Confirm available slots ahead of time.
For Baguio City
- Send your requirements to the LTO RDEC Office.
- They will let you know your schedule.
For Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur
- Register online through their official registration form.
- You’ll receive instructions by email or SMS.
What Should You Prepare Before Attending the Course?
Once your registration is confirmed, here’s what you should prepare:
- Wear proper attire.
- No sleeveless tops, slippers, or shorts are allowed.
- Bring a ballpen and a small notebook for note-taking.
- Pack snacks and water since the sessions can last several hours.
- Arrive on time—being punctual shows respect for others and keeps the sessions smooth.
- Make sure you already have an account at portal@lto.gov.ph before attending.
Remember, you must personally attend all 15 hours of the seminar to get your certificate.
Why Is the Free TDC Important for Female Applicants?
This free course can be life-changing.
For many women, learning to drive opens up new opportunities:
- Convenience: You won’t need to rely on others to get where you need to go.
- Safety: You’ll have better control over your transportation choices, especially at night.
- Work opportunities: Some jobs require you to have a license or be able to drive.
- Confidence: Driving builds independence and self-reliance.
And since this program is free, it removes the financial barrier that often holds women back from learning to drive.
Tips for a Smooth TDC Experience
Here are some simple tips to help you make the most out of the free TDC:
- Complete your documents before registration.
- Be early on your scheduled day.
- Focus during the lessons—there’s a lot of important information.
- Ask questions if you don’t understand something.
- Participate actively—it’s not just about passing, but about becoming a safe and responsible driver.
You’re not just learning to pass a test.
You’re learning to protect yourself and others on the road.
How to Use Your TDC Certificate After the Course
After finishing the TDC, you will receive a certificate of completion.
This is an important document you need to:
- Apply for your Student Permit at any LTO office.
- Enroll in a Practical Driving Course (PDC)—the next step toward getting your driver’s license.
Once you’ve completed both the TDC and PDC, you can apply for your Non-Professional Driver’s License.
The journey starts with your free TDC certificate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I take the TDC online instead of in person?
No.
For this free program, you must attend the seminars in person at your chosen LTO office.
2. Are there age limits for older women applying for the free TDC?
There’s no upper age limit.
As long as you are physically fit and can provide the required documents, you can join.
3. Do I need to pay anything after getting the free TDC certificate?
No payment is required for the free course itself.
However, you will need to pay standard fees when you apply for your Student Permit or enroll in a Practical Driving Course.
4. Can male applicants join the free TDC in March?
No.
This free course is exclusive to female applicants as part of the Women’s Month celebration.
Video: 2025 National Women’s Month Celebration Kick-off Activity
On March 5, 2025, the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW) hosted an event at the SM Mall of Asia to kick off the National Women’s Month Celebration.
Focused on empowering women, particularly in marginalized communities, the event featured various service booths offering free medical check-ups, legal consultations, and livelihood support.
A trade fair showcased products from women-owned businesses, while a lecture series covered a range of topics, including Financial Literacy and Digital Safety.
The event also unveiled the State of Filipino Women Report and the PCW’s 50th Anniversary Coffee Table Book, celebrating five decades of advocacy for women’s rights.
Conclusion
If you’ve been dreaming of learning to drive but felt held back by the cost or process, this is your chance.
The LTO’s free TDC for women this March removes the first hurdle.
It’s a valuable opportunity to gain freedom, independence, and new skills—at no cost. Register early, prepare well, and take that first confident step toward getting your driver’s license!