The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has advised motorists that they can use their electronic or e-driver’s license (eDL) as a valid form of identification when flagged for traffic violations. Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the use of the e-driver’s license is allowed under Department of Transportation Department Order No. 2023-015, which recognizes the eDL as a stand-in for the physical or actual driver’s license. “For example, if you do not have your actual physical card but you have an e-driver’s license, and you are apprehended for a violation, all you need to do is show the enforcer your e-driver’s license accessed through the LTMS portal, which is allowed,” Lopez said in an interview. The department order specifically states that Land Transportation Office (LTO) law enforcement officers and their deputized agents are required to accept the eDL as a valid form of authorization and identification to operate a motor vehicle. “LTO law enforcement officers and their deputized agents are enjoined to accept an eDL as a valid form of authorization and identification to operate a motor vehicle,” the order reads. Lopez added that motorists who apply for or renew their driver’s licenses through the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) automatically receive an e-driver’s license. “License holders must have an LTMS account. That is what you need to access and show to the enforcer. This e-driver’s license is also one of the reasons why there is no longer a need to confiscate the physical driver’s license,” Lopez said. The digital driver’s license can be accessed through the LTMS portal or the eGovPH Super App. The DOTr also reminded motorists that they may pay online for the Temporary Operator’s Permit (TOP) issued in cases of traffic violations. “The TOP will serve as the basis for penalties and fines, and it is what you will use for payment. Now, this can already be paid online as part of the government’s efforts to make public service more convenient,” Lopez said. According to the DOTr, these measures form part of the government’s ongoing push to digitize services in the transport sector.