Driving your own car has a lot of benefits, that’s for sure. But transactions with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) usually come with fees―whether for vehicle registration, driver’s license application or renewal, or settling a traffic rule violation. Learning about LTO fees is a reality every car owner in the Philippines must deal with.
But what’s worse than parting with your money is getting shocked by the amount you need to pay at the LTO office. Unpleasant surprises like this can be avoided if you know the exact LTO fees that you’ll be charged beforehand. This will also save you from enduring long queues and slower payment processes.
Before you head out to the nearest LTO branch, take note of these LTO fees first.
How Much are LTO Car Registration Fees in the Philippines?
📌 Motor Vehicle User’s Charge (MVUC)
What is MVUC?
When you register your car, the motor vehicle user’s charge is one of the LTO fees you're required to pay. The MVUC is also called the road user tax.
A component of the Philippine government's tax reform program under Republic Act 8794,[1] the MVUC collected from vehicle owners in the Philippines is used for financing the maintenance of national and provincial roads, as well as addressing air pollution from vehicles.
The Department of Finance (DOF) proposed to increase the MVUC for funding the government's road infrastructure projects.[2] The proposal pushes for a yearly increase in all MVUC fees from 2023 onwards.
According to the DOF, the current MVUC fees have been collected since 2004. In the past 14 years, these LTO fees have not been adjusted for inflation, thus justifying the increase in the road users' tax.
MUVC Fee for LTO Car Registration Renewal in 2023
Meanwhile, while the increased rates have not been approved or implemented yet, it pays to know the current MVUC for your specific car type and gross weight.
Here are the MVUC fees as of 2023 for private cars in the Philippines. For starters, the motorcycle registration fee is ₱240 (₱300 if it has a sidecar).
Vehicle Type | Gross Weight | MVUC |
---|---|---|
Light passenger cars | Up to 1,600 kg | ₱1,600 |
Medium passenger cars | 1,601 kg to 2,300 kg | ₱3,600 |
Heavy passenger cars | 2,301 kg and above | ₱8,000 |
Utility vehicles | Up to 2,700 kg | ₱2,000 |
Utility vehicles | 2,701 kg to 4,500 kg | ₱2,000 + 0.40 x gross weight in excess of 2,700 kg |
SUVs (1991 models and above) | Up to 2,700 kg | ₱2,300 |
SUVs (1991 models and above) | 2,701 kg to 4,500 kg | ₱2,300 + 0.46 x gross weight in excess of 2,700 kg |
Motorcycles without sidecar | N/A | ₱240 |
Motorcycles with sidecar | N/A | ₱300 |
Trucks | 4,501 kg and above | ₱1,800 + 0.24 x gross weight in excess of 2700 kg |
Trailers | 4,501 kg and above | 0.24 x gross vehicle weight |
MUVC Fee for Old Private Cars in 2023
LTO charges a different set of MVUC rates for aged private cars (model year 2000 and older):
Vehicle Type | Gross Weight | MVUC |
---|---|---|
Light passenger cars (1995-2000 models) | Up to 1,600 kg | ₱2,000 |
Light passenger cars (1994 and older models) | Up to 1,600 kg | ₱1,400 |
Medium passenger cars (1997-2000 models) | 1,601 kg to 2,300 kg | ₱6,000 |
Medium passenger cars (1995 and 1996 models) | 1,601 kg to 2,300 kg | ₱4,800 |
Medium passenger cars (1994 and older models) | 1,601 kg to 2,300 kg | ₱2,400 |
Heavy passenger cars (1995-2000 models) | 2,301 kg and above | ₱12,000 |
Heavy passenger cars (1994 and older models) | 2,301 kg and above | ₱5,600 |

MVUC Fee for Electric Vehicles
The LTO has guidelines for the classification, operation, and registration of electric vehicles in the Philippines.[3]
Below is a table of LTO registration fees every e-vehicle owner and driver should know about.
Electric Vehicles | Description | MVUC Rate |
---|---|---|
Category L2b |
| ₱240 - same as motorcycle without sidecar |
Category L3 |
| ₱240 - same as motorcycle without sidecar |
Category L4 |
| ₱300 - same as motorcycle with sidecar |
Category L5 |
| ₱1,600 - similar to light passenger cars |
Category L6 |
| ₱1,600 - similar to light passenger cars |
Category L7 |
| ₱1,600 - similar to light passenger cars |
Category M1 | e-Car, e-SUV | Similar to conventional counterparts |
Category M2 | e-Utility Vehicle, e-Jeepney | Similar to conventional counterparts |
Category M3 | e-Bus | Similar to conventional counterparts |
Categories N1, N2, N3 | e-truck | Similar to conventional counterparts |
If the proposal to exempt or reduce the MVUC fee for EVs[4] would be approved, that would translate to even more savings for you as an e-vehicle owner. According to the Department of Energy, it would study the said proposal, which might be incorporated into the implementing rules and regulations of the Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations Act.
📌 Other LTO Fees for Car Registration
In addition to the MVUC, other LTO fees can raise the total payment for your car registration.
For example, there’s a separate fee for the license plate. Even changing certain parts of your vehicle and the location of your vehicle registration can incur an LTO fee.
LTO Fee | Amount |
---|---|
Private motor vehicle inspection center (MVIC) fee |
|
Legal research fund | ₱10 |
Computer fee | ₱67.63 |
Examination fee | ₱100 |
Regular vehicle license plate | ₱450 |
Motorcycle license plate | ₱120 |
Cost of sticker | ₱50 |
License plate duplication/replacement | ₱450 |
Vanity plate |
|
Change classification/chassis/color/engine/tire size | ₱30 |
Change body design | ₱100 |
Change of venue of vehicle registration | ₱ 100 |
Revision of gross vehicle weight | ₱ 30 |
Transfer of vehicle ownership | ₱50 per transfer |
Read more: How to Transfer Car Ownership in the Philippines with the LTO
📌 LTO Penalty Fees for Late Registration
You’ll be paying more if you register your vehicle past the LTO’s deadline. Here's a list of penalty fees for expired registration:
Delinquent Vehicle Registration | Penalty Fee |
---|---|
Beyond the registration week (based on the middle digit of plate number) |
|
Beyond the registration month but not more than 12 months (based on the last digit of plate number) | 50% of the MVUC rate |
Beyond 12 months without apprehension for LTO violations | 50% of the MVUC rate plus renewal |
Beyond 12 months with apprehension for LTO violations | 50% of the MVUC rate plus renewal for every year of delinquency |
Check LTO's official website and social media channels for more information about vehicle car registration and renewal-related fees.
LTO Fees for Driver's License Application and Renewal
Applying for a new driver's license? Or renewing your existing license? Make sure you bring the correct amount to pay the appropriate LTO fee.
Transaction | Total Fee |
---|---|
Student permit application | ₱317.63 |
Driver's license application (professional/non-professional) | ₱689 |
Driver's license renewal (professional/non-professional |
|
Dormant license renewal (professional/non-professional) | ₱1,045.26 |
License classification change request |
|
Check the LTO website[5] for more information about driver's license-related fees.
LTO Violation Fees

Break a traffic rule, and you’ll be slapped with a fine. Here’s a list of LTO fees for common traffic violations in the Philippines:
Violation | Fine |
---|---|
Driving without a valid driver's license | ₱3,000 |
Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or dangerous drugs | Confiscation of the driver’s license on the first offense and lifetime revocation for the second offense |
Driving a motor vehicle used in the commission of a crime upon conviction by a regular court | ₱10,000 |
Reckless driving |
|
Submission of fake documents in driver's license application or renewal | ₱3,000 |
No seat belt (including having a child passenger six years old and below on the front passenger seat) |
|
No motorcycle helmet |
|
No driver's license, certificate of registration, or official receipt while driving | ₱1,000 |
Traffic violations such as parking violation, disregarding traffic signs, illegal turn, illegal overtaking, and others listed under the Joint Administrative Order No. 2014-01 | ₱1,000 |
Driving an unregistered vehicle | ₱10,000 |
Unauthorized vehicle modification | ₱5,000 |
Vehicle without or with defective/improper/unauthorized devices, accessories, parts, and equipment | ₱5,000 |
License plate not attached or improperly attached | ₱5,000 |
Smoke belching |
|
Vehicle registration/renewal fraud | ₱3,000 |
All other violations in connection with motor vehicle registration/renewal/ operation | ₱2,000 |
How to Avoid Violating Traffic Rules
Ready to hit the road again? Paying an LTO fee for your violation only adds to the agony of battling the usual traffic jams. So here are a few things you can do to avoid making LTO violations and save your money for more important expenses.
1. Have Your Valid Driver’s License with You
Your driver’s license is your ultimate pass to drive a vehicle and access the country’s roads and highways. If your driver’s license is expired, don't attempt to drive. There’s no excuse for leaving it at home or elsewhere. You should take it with you whenever you decide to go out and drive.
You also need to make sure that your car’s Official Receipt and Certificate of Registration (OR/CR) are valid. These two documents are proof of your vehicle registration and ownership.
2. Check for Any Damaged or Missing Vehicle Parts
Your damaged brake system or broken lights may not only lead to fines and penalties but also cause harm to others and yourself. Avoid paying any LTO fees by making sure all your vehicle parts are working properly before hitting the road.
3. Follow Traffic Rules and Road Signs
Knowing the road signs and their meaning can prevent you from committing driving mistakes. Traffic signs and road signs are essential in giving drivers warnings and information on routes.
4. Drive at Moderate Speeds
Public roads are not for racing, so always observe speed limits. If you’re driving too fast and there are speed cameras, you have no choice but to pay the overspeeding fine.
Read more:
- Applying for Your Driver’s License Renewal? Read This Guide First
- How to Use the LTO Portal: A Guide for Motorists in the Philippines
Final Thoughts
Many LTO penalties leave motorists scratching their heads in confusion and frustration. But nothing much can be done except to pay what’s due. Being aware of the rules and regulations set by the agency won't only save you from paying the LTO fee but ensure hassle-free driving, too.
Obey traffic rules and practice safe and defensive driving so that you won’t be penalized with a fine. Also, renew your car registration on time, so you won’t be paying LTO fees for late registration. Lastly, renew your driver’s license while it’s still valid, as renewing an expired license can cost you more.
Get a Free Car Insurance Quote!
Looking for car insurance? Below is a list of top car insurance companies and their features. Compare your options and get a free insurance quote from Moneymax.
Car Insurance Company | Maximum Total Sum Insured | Overnight Accommodation | Towing Services | Vehicle Removal Crane Services |
SGI Philippines
|
₱5 million | Up to ₱2,000 | Up to ₱5,000 | ₱10,000 |
Malayan Insurance
|
₱7.5 million | Up to ₱1,000 | Up to ₱4,000 | Up to ₱8,000 |
Mercantile Insurance
|
₱5 million | Up to ₱2,000 | Up to ₱5,000 | Up to ₱10,000 |
OONA Insurance (formerly MAPFRE)
|
₱5 million | Up to ₱3,000 | Up to ₱5,000 | Up to ₱10,000 |
Stronghold Insurance
|
₱3 million | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Prudential Guarantee
|
₱3 million | Up to ₱2,000 | Up to ₱5,500 | Up to ₱15,000 |
Sources:
- [1] Republic Act No. 8794 (Official Gazette)
- [2] Motor Vehicle Users Charge (Comprehensive Tax Reform Program website, DOF)
- [3] Guidelines for the Classificiation, Operation and Registration of Motor Vehicles (LTO, 2021)
- [4] Road user's tax exemption for EVs mulled (Manila Bulletin, 2022)
- [5] LTO License Schedule of Fees and Charges