Cruising the streets of the Philippines offers a convenient way to get around. But before you hit the road, you must familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations set by the Land Transportation Office (LTO). Traffic violations can not only put you and others at risk, but they can also lead to hefty fines and other penalties.
Also Read: List of PH LTO Traffic Signs and Symbols Explained
Understanding the driving fines and violations enforced by the LTO is important for every motorist to guarantee road safety and avoid unnecessary expenses and trouble.
Understanding LTO Penalties
LTO penalties vary depending on the severity of the offense. Fines typically range from a few hundred pesos to several thousand. On top of fines, you might face additional consequences like:
- Revocation or suspension of your driver’s license: This can seriously interfere with your daily schedule and prevent you from being able to drive legally.
- Vehicle impoundment: Your car gets towed and held until the penalties are settled, adding inconvenience and towing fees.
- Mandatory seminars: Attending traffic safety seminars can be a requirement to regain driving privileges.
Common Driving Violations and Their Associated Costs
Driving without a License
One of the most fundamental requirements for operating a motor vehicle in the Philippines is having a valid driver’s license. Driving without a license is a severe violation that carries a Php 3,000.00 fine. This violation also applies to student permit holders if they are caught driving without a professional license holder.
Aside from driving with no license, those possessing a delinquent, suspended, or fake driver’s license are also subjected to a Php 3,000.00 fine.
Driving with an Expired License
Operating a vehicle with an expired driver’s license is another common violation. The sanctions associated with this crime vary based on how long the license is expired, from Php 300 to Php 2,000.
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Road safety is seriously threatened by driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.. The Anti-Drunk Driving Act considers this a major infraction with severe ramifications. You shall be fined between Php 50,000 and Php 100,000 and sentenced to three months in prison if your infringement did not cause bodily harm or death to another person.
The penalty, as mentioned in Article 263 of the Revised Penal Code, plus a fine ranging from Php 150,000 to Php 250,000, shall be applied if the infringement leads to physical injury.
The penalty for the infraction, in addition to a fine ranging from Php 350,000 to Php 500,000, shall be determined by the circumstances surrounding the homicide, as outlined in Article 249 of the Revised Penal Code.
Your non-professional driver’s license will be seized and suspended for 18 months upon the first conviction. The second conviction will result in its permanent revocation.
The first conviction will result in confiscating and permanently revoking any professional driver’s license in your possession. In addition, the driver will no longer be able to obtain a driver’s license.
Over-speeding
Exceeding the posted speed limit is a prevalent offense on Philippine roads. Fines for over-speeding typically range from Php 1,000 to Php 2,500, depending on the degree of violation.
Reckless Driving
Driving recklessly, which endangers the safety of others, is strictly prohibited. Violators may face fines ranging from Php 1,000 to Php 5,000. The penalty for the first offense of careless driving is ₱2,000. A punishment of ₱3,000 and a three-month license suspension await you if you fail to take the consequences of your actions seriously and are apprehended a second time.
The penalty for your third and future violations is ₱10,000, in addition to six months of license suspension or revocation. Do your best to avoid dangerous situations like this by driving safely and always maintaining composure.
Failure to Wear Seatbelt
In the Philippines, drivers and passengers must wear seatbelts. Those who don’t can be charged a fine of Php 1,000 up to Php 5,000. Drivers and passengers who do not comply will be charged Php 1,000 by the LTO for their first infraction. A punishment of Php 2,000 will be payable if you commit the same offense twice. The fine will be Php 5,000 for the third offense and each subsequent one.
If you permit children younger than six years old to occupy the front seat, you will also be subject to the same fine. Your license will be suspended for one week in addition to the penalties.
Failure to Wear Helmet
Motorcycle riders must wear standard protective helmets at all times. Violating this rule can lead to fines ranging from Php 1,500 to Php 3,000 during the first two offenses. For the third offense, motorcycle riders should pay a Php 5,000 fine. The LTO will charge a Php 10,000 fine for the fourth and succeeding offenses.
Illegal Parking
Parking in prohibited areas or obstructing traffic flow can result in fines ranging from Php 200 to Php 1,000.
Tampered or Altered Plates
Using unauthorized or tampered license plates is strictly prohibited. Offenders may face fines ranging from Php 2,000 to Php 4,000. The LTO will also confiscate the unauthorized plate used.
Driving Without Headlights/Tail Lights
Operating a vehicle without proper lighting can result in fines of up to Php 5,000. Before you go behind the wheel, make sure everything is in functioning order. Horns, blinkers, brakes, EWD, signal lights, brake lights, headlights, interior lighting, and wipers, are also subject to this penalty for unlawful, inappropriate, or defective accessories, devices, equipment, or parts
Failure to Carry Vehicle Registration or Official Receipt
Drivers must carry the vehicle’s registration or official receipt at all times. Penalties for noncompliance may vary from Php 200 to Php 1,000.
Beyond the LTO
The MMDA also enforces regulations within Metro Manila. Here are some common violations to watch out for:
- Colorum: Operating a vehicle for hire without the proper license can lead to fines ranging from ₱5,000 to ₱10,000. Only use accredited taxis and ride-hailing services for safety and peace of mind.
- Ignoring Traffic Rules: Not following traffic signals, disobeying lane markings, and failing to yield to pedestrians can result in a ₱300 fine. Remember, following traffic rules keeps the flow smooth and everyone safe.
- Distracted Driving: Using a phone while operating a vehicle is not only illegal but also a significant distraction. The fine for this violation is ₱5,000. Keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel.
Video: LTO Fines and Violations on the Road
Please check out this video encapsulating the penalties of each LTO traffic violation: