The Land Transportation Office will roll out licenses valid for 10 years in October 2021, but those with violations won’t be eligible.

“Kahit single demerit point, that can be considered na hindi ka makaka-avail ng 10-year valid license. (Even a single demerit point can disqualify you from availing a 10-year license),” LTO chief Edgar Galvante told reporters in a virtual briefing on Thursday, August 19.

“There shouldn’t be any demerit points at all,” he added in a mix of English and Filipino.

The demerit system was implemented in 2019, as part of the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of Republic Act Number 10930 which extended the validity of drivers’ licenses.

Under the demerit system, violations are classified depending on the gravity of the infraction:

• Grave – 5 points
• Less grave – 3 points
• Light – 1 point

Motorists who accumulate 10 points will have their licences suspended until they attend a reorientation course. Reach 40 points and the driver’s license will be revoked, with the holder barred from applying for a new one for another 2 years.

When a motorist renews his or her license, demerit points are back to zero.

Demerit points are posted on the license holder’s accounts on the LTO Land Transportation Management System portal. – Rappler.com