If you use or plan to use an e-bike and are wondering if you need insurance for it, the answer is yes. That is, if you intend to ride your e-bike on public roads. According to the guidelines from the Land Transportation Office (LTO), all electric vehicles operated on public highways must be registered and have Third-Party Liability (TPL) insurance.
This guide breaks down what this means for e-bike owners, what the law says, and the type of insurance you need as an e-bike owner to stay compliant with LTO rules.
Insurance for E-Bikes
According to the updated LTO Administrative Order VDM-2024-044, which covers all light electric vehicles (LEVs) operated in public areas, e-bikes used on public roads or highways are required to have TPL insurance, just like motorcycles and cars.
Even though e-bikes are smaller and slower than cars, accidents can still happen, and having a TPL insurance helps cover liabilities without paying out of pocket. It also protects you financially if your e-bike causes damage to other people or property.
Here’s when insurance is required:
- Your e-bike is used on public highways or roads maintained by the government.
- Your e-bike is registered with the LTO.
- You have a driver’s license and wear a helmet while riding.
When it’s not required:
- You only use your e-bike inside private property, such as inside a subdivision or village.
- Your e-bike is not used for public roads and stays within private compounds.
Types of E-Vehicles That Require Registration
According to LTO classifications, the following e-vehicles must be registered if used on public roads:
- Personal Mobility Scooter (PMS)
- Electric Kick Scooter
- E-Bikes or E-Mopeds (2 wheels, up to 25 kph)
- Light E-Scooter or E-Moped (2 wheels, up to 50 kph)
- E-Scooter or E-Moped (3 wheels, L2a or L2b category)
- E-Motorcycle
- E-Trike or 3-Wheeled E-Vehicle
- E-Quad
Note: Light e-vehicles used only inside private roads are exempt from registration and insurance
LTO Requirements
If your e-bike falls under the registration categories listed above, here’s what you’ll need before hitting the road:
Key Requirements
- Insurance: Third-Party Liability (TPL) insurance is mandatory.
- Registration: Your e-bike must be registered with the LTO.
- Unique Identifier: The LTO will assign a unique vehicle number to your unit.
- Driver’s License: You must hold a valid license appropriate for your vehicle type.
- Helmet: All riders must wear a protective helmet under RA 10054 (Helmet Law).
You’ll also need:
- Original Sales Invoice
- Certificate of Stock Reported (CSR)
- Certificate of Payment from the Bureau of Customs (if imported)
- PNP-HPG Motor Vehicle Clearance
- Appropriate Insurance Certificate of Cover (TPL)
- Proof of Roadworthiness (inspection at an LTO Motor Vehicle Inspection Center)
Registration Fees
LTO fees vary depending on your e-bike’s classification:
- E-Motorcycle (L3): ₱240
- E-Trike (L4): ₱300
- E-Quad or Heavy Quadricycle (L7): ₱1,600
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Unregistered or uninsured e-bikes used on public roads may be impounded.
- E-bikes found to be unsafe, overloaded, or unfit for road use can also be refused registration.
Current Implementation and Updates
While the MMDA began stricter enforcement in 2024 banning e-bikes from certain national and circumferential roads, LTO continues to refine its registration and insurance rules for e-bikes. Some requirements were temporarily suspended in late 2024 pending review, but the general rule remains:
Any e-bike operated on public roads must be registered and insured.
For the latest updates, always check the LTO official website or visit your nearest LTO District Office.