With public transportation becoming less convenient during COVID-19, many Filipinos have turned to bicycles and scooters for essential commutes. Taking notice of this, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) revealed that they will soon require a driver’s license for scooter and e-bike riders soon.
“Generally, sa ating batas, Republic Act 4136, irregardless kung ito ay electric- or gas-powered vehicle, kailangan ito ay registered at ang gumagamit ay lisensyado,” LTO Assistant Secretary Edgar Galvante said on 22 Sep 2020.
Also read: We Deserve a Bike-Friendly Metro Manila, Now More Than Ever
Driver’s license for scooter riders & e-bikers — when are they needed?
According to Galvante, people won’t need a driver’s license for scooters and e-bikes if they’d only use them within residential areas. However, they’ll need a driver’s license if they’re planning to drive across public roads.
The upcoming requirement for a driver’s license for scooters and e-bikes is to make sure that drivers are safe and equipped with road knowledge, Galvan reiterated. The Department of Transportation (DOTr) confirmed that they will be releasing guidelines for e-scooters soon.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, affordable private vehicles have become saving graces. Many photos of essential workers driving to work in scooters or bikes have gone viral these past few months; seemingly, these photos just prove the hardships frontliners have to face during these trying times.
Also read: Here’s Where You Can Buy Bikes Around Metro Manila
Do you agree with the move to require driver’s licenses for e-scooters and e-bikes? Let us know what you think in the comments section!
