LTO Portal PH - Page 189

What Type of Helmet Should a Rider Must Use?

All motorcycle riders and pillion riders who venture out in the Philippine public roads must wear a standard motorcycle helmet which bears either the Philippine Standard (PS) mark or Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) of the Bureau of Product Standards (BPS). Some other acceptable helmets may bear either the DOT symbol, ECE certification, or FIM or Snell ratings, too. Regardless of the type of motorcycle that one drives, the same standard protective motorcycle helmet is required. A full-face one is recommended, but there are other motorcycle helmet styles that offer different level of protection and purposes available in the market to suit the rider’s preference.

Helmets are a mandatory part of a motorcycle rider’s dress code. According to the Philippine National Police – Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG), it’s a non-negotiable requirement mandated by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) zin accordance with Republic Act (RA) 10054, otherwise known as the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009. That said, failure to wear one is a punishable violation which entails fines and penalties ranging from P1,500.00 to P10,000.00 plus confiscation of license of those who dare to defy.

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what type of helmet should a rider must use lto

What is a standard motorcycle helmet?

A standard motorcycle helmet is a motorcycle-specific, big, cushioned, oval hat designed to protect the soft, squishy heads of motorcycle riders. Before it can be considered fit for motorcycle riders’ use, however, a helmet has to have the following elements first:

The hard outer shell

The hard outer shell of your helmet is built to deflect the full force of a strong impact and shield your helmet and your head from being punctured or harmed by any object.

The inner line

Made primarily of crushable foam, typically polystyrene, the inner layer of a motorcycle helmet is designed to take on the responsibility of absorbing any additional impact, saving your brain from getting brushed, hammered, or experiencing a bone-jarring collision with your skull.

The comfort layer

The comfort layer refers to the fabric and foam liner plush combination designed to keep the rider’s head in a cozy embrace and to keep you cool and dry as it wicks away sweat and moisture.

The retention system/chin strap

The chin strap keeps the helmet in place on the head and prevents it from falling off while driving.

These things generally set a motorcycle helmet apart from other types. So if your helmet doesn’t have these features, it’s probably not a proper motorcycle helmet and won’t be able to offer protection at the speeds you’re interested in as a motorcycle rider.

Types of Motorcycle Helmet Styles

As mentioned above, there are different styles of motorcycle helmets that riders can choose from according to their preferences. Each type offers protection of different levels, and are designed for different purposes as well.

Here are the different motorcycle helmet designs available in the market right now:

Full-face

The full-face helmet is a style of a motorcycle helmet that features a sturdy chin bar and a visor, providing comprehensive coverage, making it a popular choice for riders who are seeking all-around performance.

Open-face (a.k.a. jet)

This helmet style has no chin bar. It does offer an increased airflow and an easy on-off functionality. However, without a chin bar, it’s best to note that this type does not offer any chin protection and may not perform well in rainy conditions unless equipped with a sufficiently long visor.

Modular

The modular type of helmet is one designed somewhere between the full-face and open-face options, offering the flexibility of switching between full-face protection and the convenience of an open-face design. It’s slightly heavier, but if you’re one for versatility, the modular design is one that can adapt to different riding scenarios.

Off-road

Those who like off-road adventures and dirt tracks, then they can go for the especially-designed off-road helmets. This type of helmet is designed specifically for rugged terrains. It features a distinctive long and pointed chin bar, a peak, and a spacious eye area perfect for accommodating goggles. It is also lightweight and highly breathable, offering optimal comfort during intense off-road rides. However, it has very minimal sound isolation and aerodynamics, so experts do not recommend it for highway riding.

Hybrid (a.k.a. ADV/enduro helmets)

If you’re a rider seeking both on-road and off-road experiences, then the hybrid adventure helmet is your ideal companion. As it is designed for the versatile riders, this type of helmet often features a visor (sometimes detachable), a peak, and spacious eye ports that easily accommodate dirt goggles. It also provides better aerodynamics compared to off-road helmets, and the peak is removable for enhanced performance during long highway rides.

Penalties for not Wearing a Standard Helmet

The penalty for not wearing a helmet isn’t just for riders, as per RA No. 10054. It covers motorcycle dealers, riders, and even back-riders or passengers. The law also offers fines and penalties according to the frequency and severity of the No Helmet Violation.

Here’s a list of damages you’ll be faced with if you don’t comply with the provisions of the Motorcycle Helmet Act.

For authorized motorcycle dealers who fail to provide a helmet on motorcycle purchase or as an add-on option: Failure to comply may result in a penalty ranging from P10,000.00 to P20,000.00.

For riders who are caught riding without a motorcycle helmet, the fines and penalties imposed by the LTO are as follows:
First offense = P1,500.00
Second offense = P3,000.00
Third offense = P5,000.00
Fourth and subsequent offenses = P10,000.00 plus license confiscation

Do note that the Motorcycle Helmet Act also covers the pillion riders and not just the drivers. So, even if you are wearing a helmet, if your back-rider isn’t, you’ll still end up facing fines and penalties from the violation of the Motorcycle Helmet Act.

Summary

Wearing a helmet should be second nature to riders who value their lives and safety as well as their cycling community. It’s a fundamental responsibility, as much as securing a license. Plus, taking the time to choose a helmet that offers the utmost safety and performance reflects both self-love, self-respect, and the commitment to protect what matters most.

LTO Certificate of Registration Sample: Changes, Updates, and Key Features

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has introduced a new Certificate of Registration (CR) format, replacing the decades-old design. This update is part of the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS), a digital initiative aimed at improving efficiency and transparency in vehicle registration. The new CR features an expanded size, additional vehicle information, and updated classifications to align with Philippine National Standards (PNS).

The LTO made these changes to enhance readability, prevent document loss, and integrate modern vehicle classifications. The new CR applies to vehicles registered from February 15, 2021, onward, while older registrations will continue using the previous format. Vehicle owners can access the LTMS portal to manage registrations, book appointments, and process payments online, simplifying LTO transactions. Learn more about this updated CR aligns while exploring the key changes on the CR, as well as the new features, and how they affect vehicle owners.

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Why Did LTO Change the CR Format?

lto-cars-certificate-of-registration — Photo credit: Autodeal

The revisions align with the LTMS, which aims to digitize and modernize LTO services. Through the LTMS, vehicle owners can register an account at portal.lto.gov.ph to:

Submit applications online

Book appointments for LTO services

Pay for driver’s license transactions and vehicle registrations electronically

This shift to a more detailed and organized document also enhances compliance with new PNS classifications and licensing codes. Other reasons for this change include:

Improved Readability: The larger size and font make it easier to read, reducing errors in vehicle information.

Standardization: Aligning with PNS and international vehicle classification standards.

Better Security & Fraud Prevention: Clearer documentation reduces opportunities for tampering or misrepresentation.

Integration with LTMS: The new format supports the shift to digital transactions, making LTO services more efficient.

Reducing Duplicate Requests: The larger size makes it harder to misplace, minimizing requests for duplicate CRs.

lto-certificate-of-registration — Photo credit: LTO Facebook

Who Needs the New LTO CR?

The new format applies to vehicles registered after February 15, 2021. Owners of vehicles registered before this date will still use the old CR format, but it is advisable to carry a copy of the LTO memorandum in case of any discrepancies during vehicle inspections or roadside checks.

What’s Changed in the New LTO Certificate of Registration?

There are numerous changes that were applied when the LTO adopted a new look for its Certificate of Registration (CR). These changes may seem insignificant to you, but there actually are reasons why they were made in the first place.

Larger Document Size: One of the most noticeable updates is the increased size of the CR. Previously a small, palm-sized yellow card, the new CR is now comparable to a full-sized document, similar to a Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) birth certificate. The LTO made this change to reduce the likelihood of misplacement and to make the details more legible by increasing the font size.

Size and Color Increase: The old CR was a small, palm-sized yellow card, while the new CR is as large as a Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) birth certificate or a full-sized document with blue watermarks. This makes it more legible and less likely to be misplaced.

Font Enhancement: The new CR has a larger font size, improving readability and reducing errors in vehicle identification.

Document Layout: The updated version includes additional fields and restructured formatting to accommodate more vehicle details and align with modern registration standards.

Additional Vehicle Information

Aside from these physical changes, the new LTO CR also features an expanded size which allows for more details to be included, improving the comprehensiveness of the document. Notably, it also bow include more information such as:

Vehicle classification (Private, For Hire, Government, or Exempt)

Vehicle category based on Philippine National Standards (PNS), which includes classifications such as L1, L2, M1, N1, and others

Vehicle color reinstated as a primary identifier

Maximum power (kW) for electric vehicles

Year model and year rebuilt (for imported used vehicles)

Passenger capacity for public utility vehicles

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) replacing the body number

Dedicated remarks section for additional vehicle-related information

Removed Information

To streamline the CR, some details previously included in the old LTO CR have been removed. These include the following:

Denomination replaced by Vehicle Type (Car, UV, SUV, Bus, Truck, Motorcycle/Tricycle, or Trailer)

Body number removed since the CR already lists the engine and chassis numbers

Shipping weight and net capacity omitted as the CR now includes only gross weight and net weight

Number of cylinders deemed unnecessary by LTO

Actual LTO Certificate of Registration Sample

Familiarizing yourself with the new LTO CR is important for vehicle owners in the Philippines. Understanding its updated format ensures that you are aware of the essential information it contains, which is crucial during transactions or inspections. To view and download a sample of the new LTO CR, you may visit and consult with personnel from nearby LTO offices. After all, being acquainted with the document’s appearance and details helps prevent potential issues during vehicle-related processes.

Here’s an actual sample of the new version of the LTO CR that you can check:

lto-certificate-of-registration-sample — Photo credit: Pinoy Motorsiglo Facebook

Important Notes about the new LTO CR

When dealing with the new LTO CR, here are some important notes and reminders in mind:

The new CR is larger than the previous version, making it easier to read and less likely to be misplaced.

It includes additional details such as vehicle classification, category, and maximum power for electric vehicles.

Some details like body number, shipping weight, and number of cylinders have been removed.

Vehicle color is now included again for better identification.

The document aligns with Philippine National Standards (PNS) classifications for power-driven vehicles.

Only vehicles registered after February 15, 2021, will have the new CR format.

Always keep a copy of your CR in your vehicle for verification and legal purposes.

Always check for security features such as unique serial numbers and LTO watermarks.

Authentic CRs are only issued by the LTO and its authorized branches—never purchase from third-party sellers.

If in doubt, verify the document at the nearest LTO office or through the LTO online portal.

Video: New LTO CR, New Design

The updated LTO CR brings clarity, better organization, and increased security to vehicle documentation. With the integration of the LTMS, motorists can expect a more convenient way to handle their registration and licensing needs. If you haven’t registered your vehicle recently, the next time you do, you’ll receive this updated, more comprehensive CR. To learn more about what’s new in the latest LTO CR designs, you may check out this video from Jeff Ski:

For more information, you may also visit the official LTO website or the nearest LTO offices to check out the latest LTO memos regarding vehicle registration and licensing policies.

List of Common Motorcycle Hand Signals Used in the Philippines

Motorcycle hand signals are an important means for communication between riders, especially in situations where talking is difficult due to the noise of engines or helmets. It serves as a universal language among riders, allowing them to maintain effective communication without relying on verbal communication or technology, making it an important part of every rider’s arsenal.

In the Philippines, where motorcycles are a common mode of transportation, understanding and using hand signals can enhance safety and promote smooth traffic flow. Whether navigating city streets or embarking on long-distance journeys, incorporating these hand signals into your riding repertoire is essential for safe, efficient, and enjoyable riding experiences, whether riding alone or in a group, and contributes to improved communication and camaraderie among riders. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 50 common motorcycle hand signals used in the Philippines, along with detailed descriptions of each signal.

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list of motorcycle hand signals used in philippines

Motorcycle Hand Symbols

Before we get into the common hand signals, it’s best to understand that there are several categories of hand signals currently being used by riders on the road. The different motorcycle hand signals listed below are some of the most commonly used ones on the road. We also included a description of how they are done, as well as the meaning behind each hand signal under each category.

The Basics

This refers to the basic gestures that form the foundation of motorcycle communication.

Stop

This signal involves extending the left arm straight out with the palm facing downward to indicate that the rider is coming to a complete stop.

Slow Down

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward, then moving the hand up and down in a patting motion. This signal alerts other riders to reduce speed.

Speed Up

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing upward, then moving the hand up and down in a pushing motion. This signal indicates the desire to increase speed.

Turn Signals

In addition to using motorcycle indicators, clear communication of turning intentions is also expressed using hand signals to supplement their intentions.

Turn Left

This signal involves extending the left arm out horizontally with the palm facing downward. This signal indicates the intention to make a left turn.

Turn Right

This signal involves extending the left arm out horizontally with the palm facing upward. This signal indicates the intention to make a right turn.

Turning Around

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing backward and motion in a circular motion. This signal indicates the intention to turn around.

U-Turn

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing upward and motion in a U-shaped motion. This signal indicates the intention to make a U-turn.

Lane Positioning

Motorcyclists often adjust their lane positioning to communicate intentions or respond to road conditions.

Oncoming Traffic

Point with the left index finger to the opposite side of the road. This signal warns of oncoming traffic.

Merge Right

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion toward the right side. This signal indicates the intention to merge to the right.

Merge Left

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion toward the left side. This signal indicates the intention to merge to the left.

Clear to Pass

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the index finger pointing upward and motion in a circular motion. This signal indicates that it’s safe to pass.

Lane Change Right

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion toward the right side, then point to the right. This signal indicates the intention to change lanes to the right.

Lane Change Left

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion toward the left side, then point to the left. This signal indicates the intention to change lanes to the left.

Watch Out for Road Narrows

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a narrowing motion. This signal warns of the road narrowing ahead.

Watch Out for Sharp Curve

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a curving motion. This signal warns of a sharp curve ahead.

Hazard Signals

Alerting other riders to potential hazards is also essential for collective safety.

Hazard on Road

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward, then point to the hazard with the index finger. This signal alerts other riders to a potential danger on the road.

Road Obstruction

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward, then sweep the hand across the body. This signal indicates an obstruction on the road.

Slow Down for Speed Bumps

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a bouncing motion. This signal indicates the presence of speed bumps ahead.

Watch Out for Animals

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a hopping motion. This signal warns of animals on the road.

Watch Out for Debris

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a sweeping motion across the body. This signal warns of debris on the road.

Watch Out for Potholes

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a tapping motion. This signal warns of potholes on the road.

Watch Out for Pedestrians

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a walking motion. This signal warns of pedestrians crossing the road.

Watch Out for Cyclists

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a circular motion. This signal warns of cyclists on the road.

Watch Out for Vehicles Pulling Out

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a pulling motion. This signal warns of vehicles pulling out from side streets or driveways.

Watch Out for Construction Zone

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a hammering motion. This signal warns of construction zones ahead.

Watch Out for Slippery Roads

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a sliding motion. This signal warns of slippery road conditions.

Watch Out for Fallen Rocks

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a throwing motion. This signal warns of fallen rocks on the road.

Watch Out for Low Clearance

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a lowering motion. This signal warns of low clearance ahead.

Watch Out for High Winds

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a waving motion. This signal warns of high winds on the road.

Watch Out for Blind Spot

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a sweeping motion behind the back. This signal warns of a blind spot.

Watch Out for Emergency Vehicles

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a flashing motion. This signal warns of approaching emergency vehicles.

Watch Out for Railway Crossing

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a crossing motion. This signal warns of a railway crossing ahead.

Watch Out for Traffic Light

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a stopping motion. This signal warns of a traffic light ahead.

Watch Out for School Zone

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a book opening motion. This signal warns of a school zone ahead.

Watch Out for Road Works

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a digging motion. This signal warns of road works ahead.

Watch Out for Animals Crossing

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in an animal walking motion. This signal warns of animals crossing the road.

Watch Out for Loose Gravel

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a gravel tossing motion. This signal warns of loose gravel on the road.

Watch Out for Roadside Petrol Stations

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a pumping motion. This signal warns of roadside petrol stations or gas stations, where riders may need to refuel their motorcycles.

Watch Out for Fallen Branches

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion in a branch snapping motion. This signal warns of fallen branches on the road.

Group Riding

In group riding scenarios, effective communication is key to coordination and safety.

Follow Me

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing backward and motion toward the body. This signal indicates that the rider wants others to follow.

Single File

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the index finger pointing upward. This signal indicates that riders should move into a single file line.

Double File

This signal involves extending both arms out horizontally with the index fingers pointing outward. This signal indicates that riders should ride side by side.

Group Stop

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing upward and motion toward the body. This signal indicates a group stop.

Follow Close

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing downward and motion toward the body, then repeatedly bend the elbow. This signal indicates to follow closely behind the lead rider.

Emergency Signals

During emergencies or breakdowns, specific signals can help convey the urgency of the situation.

Emergency Stop

This signal involves extending both arms out horizontally and wave them up and down rapidly. This signal indicates an emergency stop.

Lost Rider

Tap the helmet with an open palm. This signal indicates that a rider is lost or needs assistance.

Need Assistance

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing upward and motion toward the body. This signal indicates the need for assistance.

Miscellaneous Signals

Additional hand signals cover a range of scenarios encountered during motorcycle travel.

Fuel Stop

Tap the helmet with an open palm. This signal indicates the need to stop for fuel.

Rest Stop

This signal involves extending the left arm out with the palm facing upward and motion toward the body. This signal indicates the need for a rest break.

Police Ahead

Tap the top of the helmet with an open palm. This signal warns of a police presence ahead.

By familiarizing yourself with these motorcycle hand signals used by riders in the Philippines and incorporating them in your rides, you’ll be better equipped to communicate effectively with fellow riders which hopefully helps you in navigating various road conditions safely.

Video: Motor Hand Signals for Drivers Philippines

Please check out this video of motor hand signals in Philippines for your safety and to avoid accidents on the road.

Summary

Mastering the motorcycle hand signals, especially the most commonly used ones, is an essential skill for motorcycle riders. It is also useful if you want to enjoy safe and efficient riding, especially in the Philippines where road conditions can be unpredictable. By understanding and using common motorcycle hand signals, riders can communicate effectively with each other without engaging in verbal conversations. Needless to say, having this knowledge in your riding repertoire is a valuable skill every rider must have. It’s also part of the LTO exams for drivers, so there’s no harm in learning them. So, learn them now if you haven’t yet and see the difference for yourself next time you take your motorcycle for a spin.