Everyone who drives tries their best not to violate any traffic rule—that’s a fact. Sometimes, though, you'll find yourself fined for an MMDA violation. “I didn’t know” is definitely not something you can say to get out of trouble.
As a motorist, you're obliged to observe traffic rules and regulations. Moreover, you must be updated on the penalties that come with certain traffic violations and cases of misconduct.
Don’t worry, we’ll fill you in on that. Here is a list of MMDA traffic violations and penalties you should know about.
MMDA Violation and Penalty Fee List
The MMDA has a very long and exhaustive list of traffic violations. For your easy reference, we’ve listed the most common violations and grouped them according to their nature.
👉 Penalties for License Violations
These violations usually involve your driver's license—any misuse, failure to carry it while driving, or failure to renew it.
👉 Penalties for License Plate and Car Registration Violations
These violations involve the license plates issued to the driver upon registration, as well as those related to your vehicle registration.
👉 Penalties for Common Driving Violations
These violations are among the most commonly committed by experienced and newbie drivers in general. They involve disregarding driving laws, traffic signs, and traffic rules that endanger the safety of the driver, passengers, and other motorists on the road. Take note of the MMDA violation and penalty fee table below.
Keep in mind that this list includes only the most common MMDA violations in the Philippines. Check the complete MMDA traffic violation code list as well.[1]
👉 Penalties for Improper Driver Behavior and Conduct
You could be also ticketed for an MMDA traffic violation due to unprofessional behavior or conduct when driving.
What is the No Contact Apprehension Policy?
In case you’re a new car owner or a driver, you may be wondering how the authorities manage to identify traffic violators. The answer: the No Contact Traffic Apprehension Policy (NCAP).
Through this system, the MMDA uses CCTV cameras, digital cameras, and similar gadgets to capture images and videos of drivers violating traffic laws within Metro Manila. The footage contains erring motorists’ plate numbers.
The said policy removes the need for actually arresting motorists. Instead, drivers will have a personal obligation to check with MMDA about their traffic violations.
The No Contact Apprehension Policy reinforces the idea that traffic violations don’t go undetected. Furthermore, it serves as a way to thwart corruption among traffic enforcers. This program also helps prevent traffic caused by drivers flagged down by authorities.
Note: The NCAP implementation remains suspended as of this writing. MMDA Acting Chairman Atty. Don Artes reminded the public about the NCAP suspension amid fake news on social media that it has resumed.[2]
In August 2022, the Supreme Court issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the NCAP after some transport groups filed petitions to stop its implementation.
How to Check Your Traffic Violation with the MMDA Office
Check your MMDA violation[3] record by getting in touch with its Redemption Center. You can do so through the following channels:
- Landline – 882-4151 to 77 local 1164 or 1165 / (02) 882-2629
- Mobile – 09430331962 / 09178598616
- Email – redemptionrecords2021@gmail.com
Note: The MMDA Redemption Center’s operating hours start from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
How to Check Your Traffic Violation in Metro Manila
Some cities in the National Capital Region (NCR) provide motorists with easy access to their traffic violation records. They’ve come up with their own websites that support the no-contact apprehension program.
Here are some of the cities in Metro Manila with their own no contact apprehension website:
- Manila City – nocontact.manilacity.ph
- Valenzuela City – nocontact.valenzuelacity.net
- Parañaque City – nocontact.paranaquecity.net
- Quezon City – nocontact.quezoncity.gov.ph
To check your violation on the websites above, just enter your plate number and complete the CAPTCHA. The website will instantly inform you if you have an existing violation that needs to be settled.
MMDA Penalty Fee Payment Guide
If you've confirmed that you have an outstanding MMDA violation, you’ll have to settle it quickly. Here are some pointers you need to take note of.
💸 How to Pay MMDA Violation Fee in Person
Primarily, you must check if your violation is issued within seven days. This is because the length of time your violation stays with you determines the method of settling it.
Make sure to fill out your payment form correctly. Bring your violation notice with you because you’ll need it when filling out the form. Once you’ve paid, keep a copy of your receipt.
Here is a step-by-step guide on settling your traffic violations.
1. Check if your Ordinance Violation Receipt (OVR) is issued by the MMDA or not.
- If it’s NOT issued by the MMDA, proceed to the local government unit (LGU) that issued your OVR. Pay the corresponding fine.
- If the OVR comes from the MMDA, check if the OVR is issued within seven days or not. If it’s issued within seven days, proceed to any Bayad Center and SM Bills Payment outlet nationwide to pay the fine. If the OVR is issued beyond seven days, you need to do the following:
- If outside Metro Manila: Contact the MMDA Redemption Center via the contact details stated above.
- If within Metro Manila: Visit the MMDA Redemption Center at EDSA corner Orense Street, Guadalupe Nuevo, Makati.
2. Check if you have three or more violations.
-
- If you have three or more violations, proceed to Traffic Academy TEC Traffic Education Center at Valencia Street corner Ramon Magsaysay Boulevard, Sta. Mesa, Manila to undergo the Road Rules and Safety Training.
- If you DO NOT have three or more violations, then you can pay the corresponding fine at the Traffic Ticket Management Division, MMDA Parking Lot, EDSA corner Orense Street, Guadalupe Nuevo, Makati City.
3. If you want to contest your violation, go to the Traffic Adjudication Division (TAD) of the MMDA.
💸 Where to Pay MMDA Penalty Fees Online
As digital payments improve over the years, e-wallets and other mobile apps now enable payment of MMDA penalty fees. MMDA has partnered with Grab, GCash, Maya, and LANDBANK to help motorists pay their traffic violation fines more easily.
How to Pay MMDA Violation Fee via GrabPay
- Launch your Grab app and tap Payment.
- Choose MMDA from the list of billers.
- Enter your account number, violation type, violation code, and clearance fee.
- Check your details then complete your payment.
How to Pay MMDA Violation Fee via GCash
- Log in to your GCash account.
- Choose the Pay Bills option.
- Click on Government.
- Scroll down, look for MMDA then select it.
- Complete the payment form.
- After following all the prompts, confirm your payment.
How to Pay MMDA Violation Fee via Maya
- Log in to your account in the Maya app.
- From the dashboard, choose Pay Bill.
- Supply the MMDA reference number in the account field and the amount that you need to settle.
- Provide the following: your name, clearance fee, and violation code.
- Check your details, then tap Pay.
How to Pay MMDA Violation Fee via LANDBANK
- Visit the LANDBANK Link.BizPortal at www.lbp-eservices.com/egps/portal/index.jsp.
- Click the Pay Now button.
- Enter METROPOLITAN MANILA DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY in the merchant field and click the Continue button.
- Select the transaction type. Then click Continue.
- Provide the required information. When you're done, click the Continue button.
- Enter the one-time password (OTP) sent to your mobile number.
- Review your details and enter your ATM card number.
- Wait for your payment confirmation receipt.
MMDA Violation and Penalty FAQS
If you want to become a responsible driver, you should learn as much as you can regarding MMDA violations. Listed below are other important concerns that you should take note of.
1. What is the single ticketing system?
Under the single ticketing system, cities in Metro Manila will now follow standardized regulations, fines, and procedures for common MMDA violations. These traffic violations include illegal parking, reckless driving, overspeeding, and number coding violations, among others.
This new traffic management program in Metro Manila will "harmonize the existing national and local laws on traffic enforcement." MMDA Acting Chairman Atty. Artes expects the single ticketing system to improve traffic because it will reduce arguments between apprehended drivers and traffic enforcers.
It will also make the process of settling penalties faster. Apprehended drivers can conveniently pay fines wherever they wish (through online channels or Bayad Centers all over the Philippines), regardless of where they committed the violation.[4]
The single ticketing system will be rolled out on May 2, 2023 in select LGUs initially. Pilot testing will run in these seven cities:
- Caloocan
- Manila
- Muntinlupa
- Parañaque
- Quezon City
- San Juan
- Valenzuela
2. How do I deal with the MMDA officer if I get caught for a violation?
First, ask the traffic enforcer respectfully about the MMDA violation you’ve committed. Be calm and courteous; you don’t want unnecessary conflicts to arise. Keep in mind that aggression may also warrant another violation and penalty.
Don’t be too defensive. At the same time, don’t just follow what the officer asks you to do. Remember that you have the right to ask for a written mission order, as this very document validates your apprehension.
Also, don’t try to bribe them even if the officer is obviously hinting at it. You’re not supposed to tolerate such behaviors. Report the erring officers to the proper authorities.
3. If the No Contact Apprehension Policy is already in place, why are there still MMDA officers on the road?
The No Contact Apprehension Policy isn’t designed to completely rid Metro Manila roads of traffic enforcers. It’s supposed to complement the effort of traffic enforcers.
The NCAP’s primary purpose is to catch moving violations, thus still leaving the apprehension of administrative offenses to traffic enforcers. Besides, not all places in Metro Manila are covered by CCTV cameras.
Note: As of April 2023, the NCAP implementation is still suspended.
4. From the day of the traffic violation, how many days will it take before I receive the notice?
The No Contact Apprehension Policy Office sends out notices of violation by batch. However, the duration of the delivery will depend on the courier.
5. How will I receive my violation notice?
For private vehicle owners, the MMDA sends the violation notice through registered mail (PHLPost). For buses, the bus company’s liaison officer may proceed to the MMDA’s Records Division to get the notice.
6. What if I refuse to receive the notice of violation?
If you refuse to accept the notice without providing any valid reason, the MMDA will still consider that you received it by leaving a copy. The MMDA will also submit an affidavit of service or a report that proves your refusal to acknowledge receipt of the notice.
7. What should I do if I don’t agree with the violation?
Every summoned driver or vehicle owner has the right to contest any MMDA violation. To do so, file a complaint with the Traffic Adjudication Division (TAD) of the MMDA within seven days from receipt of the notice. If you fail to file a complaint within the given period, the MMDA shall treat it as a waiver of your right to contest.
You may file a Motion for Reconsideration within 15 days of receiving the resolution from the TAD. You may also file an appeal at the Office of the Chairman within 30 days after the Motion for Reconsideration is denied.
8. What will happen if I don’t pay the violation fees?
Your vehicle will be included in the MMDA Alarm List. The MMDA will coordinate with the LTO to request for non-renewal of your vehicle registration until you’ve paid all your dues.
9. I'm the previous owner of an apprehended vehicle. What should I do?
The current owner should be liable for any MMDA violation. If you’re the previous owner and you received a summon, proceed to the No-Contact Office at the MMDA main office. Present the Deed of Sale as proof and provide the name and address of the current vehicle owner.
10. Will I be fined for using my cell phone when stuck in traffic?
Yes. Under the Anti-Distracted Driving Act (ADDA), drivers cannot use their cell phone for any purpose whenever they’re behind the wheel, whether the car is moving or not.
Also, the MMDA is authorized by the law to apprehend ADDA violators.[5] Here are the penalty fines you’ll have to pay if you’re caught due to distracted driving:
- First offense: ₱5,000
- Second offense: ₱10,000
- Third offense: ₱15,000 with driver’s license suspension for three months
- Succeeding offenses: ₱20,000 with driver’s license revocation
Note, though, that the MMDA allows using your phone’s hands-free function, which includes the speaker, earphones, microphone, or the like. However, you’re not allowed to use your earphones for entertainment purposes, such as listening to music.
11. How can authorities detect ADDA violations on heavily tinted vehicles?
Authorities use high-definition cameras that detect the movement of light inside heavily tinted vehicles. Aside from this, trained enforcers are deployed strategically on the ground to detect this type of MMDA violation.
12. Are there exemptions from the ADDA?
Yes. You’re allowed to make or take emergency calls to authorities in case of the following:
- Crime
- Accidents
- Bomb or terrorist threat
- Situations that require immediate medical attention
- Situations where your personal safety is compromised
13. Who are the apprehending authorities in case of ADDA violations?
Aside from the MMDA, other government agencies are authorized to apprehend you in case you’re found violating the ADDA. These include the DOTr’s Land Transportation Office (LTO), PNP, and LGUs.
14. How much is the penalty fee for number coding violations?
If you violate the Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP), you'll have to pay a fine of ₱300. Read this comprehensive number coding guide to learn the specific rules and prevent yourself from committing this MMDA violation.
15. What if my vehicle incurred damage after towing?
Before towing, the tow truck crew shall provide a Technical Inspection Report that indicates the condition of the vehicle before towing. Any damage incurred by the vehicle after being towed shall be charged to the towing company or agency.
While you’re at it, take note that the MMDA works only with accredited towing companies. Before your vehicle is towed, make sure that the members of the tow truck team are wearing the prescribed uniform and ID cards.
If you’re not sure, you can call 136 or check the list of accredited towing companies found on the MMDA’s website.[6]
Read more: Towing Rules and Regulations in the Philippines
16. Can a traffic enforcer confiscate my driver’s license during a violation?
Traffic enforcers are not allowed to confiscate driver’s licenses, except when the driver or vehicle is involved in an accident, the driver has incurred three or more violations, or the driver has committed specific violations such as the following:
- Driving against traffic
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs
- Fake driver’s license
- Allowing another person to use the driver’s license
- Illegal transfer of plates/tags/stickers
- Second offense on reckless driving
- Out of line operation
- Tampered sealing wire
- Tampered taximeter seal
- Illegal or unauthorized counterflow
- Overspeeding
- Second offense on overcharging (with or without a conductor)
Final Thoughts
The fees for most MMDA traffic violations and penalties seem minimal, but you still don't want to be hassled with settling the fines. Plus, you'll have to suffer bigger consequences if you don't settle it immediately. For one, your request for registration renewal runs the risk of being void.
Moreover, you don't want to be involved in MMDA violations that could harm or cause delays to your fellow drivers or vehicle owners on the road.
Responsible driving saves you from wasting time on paying fines, retrieving your towed vehicle, and causing inconvenience to others. Avoid such scenarios by making sure your car is roadworthy before you drive, driving responsibly, and observing traffic rules and signs.
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Sources:
- [1] MMDA Fines and Penalties
- [2] Paalaala ng MMDA: No-contact apprehension, suspendido pa rin (ABS-CBN News, February 2023)
- [3] Procedures for Settling MMDA Traffic Violations
- [4] After 28 Years, Metro Manila Council Approves Landmark Single Ticketing System (MMDA, 2023)
- [5] Anti-Distracted Act FAQ (MMDA, 2019)
- [6] List of MMDA-Accredited Towing Services
- Photos from the MMDA Facebook page
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