LTO driver’s exam now available in English, Filipino, and local dialects

MANILA: This week, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has begun implementing a policy that mandates all Land Transportation Offices (LTOs) to conduct driver licensure exams in a wide range of languages including English, Filipino, and even regional dialects.

Previously, the only language options available for examinees taking the written test were English and Filipino. This test is divided into seven categories: General Driving Knowledge, Parking, Driving Emergencies, Handling and Driving, Road Signs and Lane Markings, and Road Position.

To avoid instances where examinees get confused, not because they don’t know the answer, but due to comprehension issues brought about by reading a foreign language, the applicant may now choose to take the test in the local dialect of the province, town, or city where the examination is taking place.

Department Order 2020-003 states that the DOTr wants "to afford examinees the opportunity to fully comprehend the Driver’s License Examination."

LTO regional directors are tasked to provide a translation for the Driver’s License Examination in the respective regional dialects.

The order took effect from March 1, 2020.

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