LTO Restriction Codes Explained: What A, B, C, D Mean (2026)
Short answer: Your LTO restriction code decides what you’re legally allowed to drive. New licenses use letter codes: A = motorcycles, A1 = tricycles, B / B1 / B2 = cars, vans and light trucks, C = heavy trucks, D = buses, BE / CE = articulated vehicles. They replaced the old number codes 1–8, which stay valid until your current card expires. Driving a vehicle your code doesn’t cover counts as driving without a valid license.
Restriction Code Lookup
Tap your DL code to see exactly what you’re allowed to drive — and the mistakes that get people fined.
Old number codes (still on some cards):
How this works: this lookup explains the LTO’s published DL code rules — it cannot see your license record. No private website has access to the LTO’s internal database — not ours, not anyone’s. For your official records, use the LTMS portal (portal.lto.gov.ph), the eGovPH app, or an LTO office. Code definitions follow the LTO’s published DL codes list; confirm against your card or an LTO office.
Last verified: October 2026. Code definitions follow the LTO’s DL codes list — confirm against lto.gov.ph if your card shows something unexpected.
The New Letter Codes: What Each One Lets You Drive
| DL Code | Vehicle types | Replaces old code |
|---|---|---|
| A | Motorcycles, two-wheeled | 1 |
| A1 | Tricycles and motorcycles with a sidecar | 1 |
| B | Passenger cars — up to 4,500 kg GVW, max 8 passenger seats | 2, 4 |
| B1 | Passenger vans and jeepneys — up to 4,500 kg GVW | 2, 4 |
| B2 | Light commercial vehicles — goods vehicles up to 4,500 kg GVW | 2, 4 |
| C | Heavy commercial trucks — over 4,500 kg GVW | 3, 5 |
| D | Heavy passenger buses | 3, 5 |
| BE | Light articulated vehicles and towed trailers | 6, 7 |
| CE | Heavy articulated vehicles — over 4,500 kg GVW | 8 |
The Old Number Codes (1–8)
Cards showing numbers stay valid until they expire; renewing your license converts you to letter codes: 1→A/A1, 2→B/B1/B2, 3→C/D, 4→B/B1/B2 (auto), 5→C/D (auto), 6→BE, 7→BE, 8→CE.
Which Codes Can You Get?
- Non-Professional: A, A1, B, B1, B2 only.
- Professional: required for C, D, BE, CE.
Manual vs Automatic: The Rule That Trips People Up
- Manual-transmission code covers automatics in the same class; automatic-only does not cover manuals.
- Code B does not let you ride a motorcycle — that needs A.
What Happens If You Drive the Wrong Vehicle?
Driving a vehicle your code doesn’t cover is treated as driving without a valid license. Confirm current penalties with the LTO — amounts change periodically. For the full licensing process, see our driver’s license guide.
See the fine for driving the wrong vehicle in our 2026 guide.
How to Add a DL Code to Your License
- Complete the Practical Driving Course (PDC) for the new category at an accredited school.
- Apply at an LTO licensing office with your PDC certificate, medical certificate, and current license.
- Pass the required written and practical exams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive a motorcycle with DL code B?
No. Code B covers passenger cars only. Motorcycles need A; tricycles need A1.
Are the old number codes still valid?
Yes — until the card expires; renewal converts you to letter codes.
What code do I need for a tricycle?
A1.
Can a Non-Pro license holder get code C or D?
No — C, D, BE, CE require a Professional license.
I learned on an automatic. Can I drive a manual?
Not with an automatic-only qualification.
How do I add another restriction code?
PDC for the new category, then apply at an LTO office and pass the exams.
Written by Joseph
Joseph covers LTO guides and helps Filipino motorists navigate LTMS online services — from portal registration and plate tracking to renewals and violations. Every guide is researched against official LTO and MMDA sources and updated regularly.
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