Driving your own car has a lot of benefits. But transactions with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) usually come with fees―whether for registering vehicles, applying for a driver’s license, or settling a traffic rule violation.
Paying the LTO fees is a reality every car owner in the Philippines must deal with. To spare yourself from unpleasant surprises and long lines at the cashier, learn the exact LTO fees you’ll be charged with beforehand.
So before you head out to the nearest LTO branch, take note of the fees below.
When you register your car, the motor vehicle user’s charge (MVUC)—also called the road user's tax—is one of the LTO fees you're required to pay.
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 to finance the maintenance of national and provincial roads, as well as address air pollution from vehicles.
Here are the MVUC fees[2] as of 2025 for private cars in the Philippines. To start with, the motorcycle registration fee is ₱240 (₱300 if it has a sidecar).
LTO charges a different set of MVUC rates for aged private cars (model year 2000 and older):
Below is a table of LTO registration fees every e-vehicle owner and driver should know about.[3]
Battery-operated vehicles enjoy a 30% discount for the MVUC while hybrid electric vehicles get 15%.[4]
House Bill 376, which amends the decades-old RA 8794, proposes to increase the road user's tax paid by vehicle owners in the Philippines.
If this proposal is eventually enacted into law, MVUC rates for private and government vehicles will increase over the years. Below are the proposed rates under HB 376:[5]
Also, under this proposed measure, motorcycles and tricycles would be exempted from paying the tax while vehicles for hire would be given a 50% discount.
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:
Check LTO's official website and social media channels for more information about vehicle car registration and renewal-related fees.
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 application. Even changing certain parts of your vehicle and the location of your vehicle registration can incur an LTO fee.
Note that there is no fee for claiming vehicle license plates. LTO chief Vigor Mendoza II warned motorists about people offering to claim license plates for ₱200.[6]
Read more: How to Transfer Car Ownership in the Philippines with the LTO
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.[7]
Read more: Driver’s License Renewal Requirements and Process in 2024
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:[8]
Paying an LTO fee for your violation only adds to the agony of battling the usual traffic jams. Here's how to avoid making LTO violations so you can save your money for more important expenses.
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.
Make sure that your car’s Official Receipt and Certificate of Registration (OR/CR) are valid. These documents are proof of your vehicle registration and ownership.
There’s no excuse for leaving these at home or elsewhere. Take it with you whenever you decide to go out and drive.
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.
Know the road signs and their meanings so you can avoid committing driving mistakes. Traffic signs and road signs are essential in giving drivers warnings and information on routes.
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: LTO Transactions Made Easier: How to Use the LTMS Portal
Many LTO penalties leave motorists scratching their heads in confusion and frustration. But not much can be done except to pay what’s due. Be aware of the rules and regulations set by the agency to save yourself from the LTO fees and ensure hassle-free driving.
Obey traffic rules and practice safe and defensive driving so that you won’t be penalized with a fine. Renew your car registration on time so you won’t pay 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.
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