If you’re a rider you need to know that you need a motorcycle with at least 400cc engine displacement to be legally allowed on the expressways. Anything below this is not allowed, no matter the brand, model, or appearance. This rule comes from the Limited Access Highway Act (Republic Act 2000) and DOTC Department Order No. 2007-38, which set the standards for who can safely use high-speed roads.
Many riders get confused or frustrated because they want faster travel, smoother roads, and safer routes—but the law is firm. Expressways are designed only for vehicles that can safely keep up with higher speeds and traffic flow. This guide explains everything you need to know so you know exactly what to expect and how to stay safe and compliant while riding your motorcycle.
Understanding Motorcycle Displacement and Expressway Requirements
Motorcycle displacement refers to the size of an engine’s combustion chamber, measured in cubic centimeters (cc), and it indicates how much air and fuel the engine can burn to produce power. Motorcycles 400cc and above generally have stronger engines, higher top speeds, and better stability at fast highway conditions, while those 399cc and below may struggle to keep up with expressway traffic, which is why the government restricts them for safety. This requirement started decades ago when expressways were developed, and authorities needed a clear, measurable benchmark—engine displacement—to decide which motorcycles could safely travel alongside faster, bigger vehicles.
Why the 400cc Rule Exists
The 400cc rule comes from both the Limited Access Highway Act (RA 2000) and the DOTC Department Order No. 2007-38, which were created to regulate who can use high-speed, limited-access roads based on performance and safety standards. These laws give the DOTC/DOTr and toll operators the power to regulate which vehicles may enter expressways.
The law was created to keep riders safe on roads where vehicles travel fast and there are:
- No pedestrian crossings
- No loading or unloading
- No intersections
- High-speed through traffic
Motorcycles below 400cc may struggle to maintain safe speeds or react quickly in fast-moving situations, which puts the rider and other motorists at risk.
Expressway Rules
Even if your motorcycle meets the 400cc minimum requirement for using the expressway, you must still follow these rules:
- Maximum of one back rider only
- Both rider and back rider must wear helmets
- Must follow all speed limits
- No lane splitting or overtaking between lanes
- Must use normal lanes like other vehicles
- Headlight must always be on
- Tail lights and signal lights must be working
- Only normal saddlebags or approved luggage carriers allowed
- Must have valid registration and a valid driver’s license
- Must present documents upon request
- Must pay Class 1 toll rate
Violating these rules may result in penalties under Section 10 of RA 2000.
Vehicles Not Allowed on Expressways (At Any Time)
The law was also clear that the following cannot use the expressway at any time:
- Motorcycles below 400cc
- Scooters below 400cc
- Tricycles
- Bicycles
- Pedestrians
- Overloaded or unsafe vehicles
Reminders
The TRB has repeatedly reminded everyone of the rules on riding motorcycles and using the expressways. Some of these reminders are as follows:
- Toll operators must strictly block sub-400cc motorcycles.
- Fake decals do not count—only official LTO records determine displacement.
- RFID should not be issued to sub-400cc motorcycles.
- Misdeclared registration documents may lead to legal action.
If you are a rider, here are some other reminders you need to keep in mind before attempting to use the expressways:
- Check your motorcycle’s official displacement on your LTO registration.
- Do not rely on stickers, labels, or assumptions.
- Only ride on expressways if you meet the 400cc minimum and the rules above.
- Stay updated and ride safely.