The law is firm: unconverted right-hand drive cars cannot be used on Philippine roads. Using one is illegal and comes with heavy fines, registration suspension, and even possible jail time. The penalties are steep because it’s more risky to be sitting on the wrong side of the car in a country built for left-hand drive (LHD) cars. Because of the risks, the government has very strict rules against using RHD vehicles.
If you already own an RHD vehicle, or if you are simply interested in getting one, this guide explains the exact penalty, the law, the exceptions, and what you should do to be able to use your RHD car.
Is it Illegal to Use an Unconverted Right-hand Drive Car in the Philippines?
Yes. Under Republic Act No. 8506, it is illegal to import, register, use, or operate an RHD vehicle on any public or private road in the country, unless it falls under very narrow exceptions. Because our roads follow LHD design, the law treats RHD operation as unsafe, which is why the penalties are heavy.
What’s the Penalty for Using an Unconverted Right-hand Drive Car?
If you are caught using an RHD vehicle that has not been converted:
Main Penalties under Republic Act No. 8506
- Imprisonment: Prision correccional in its medium period
- This can range from:
- Two years, four months, and one day up to four years and two months, or
- Six months and one day up to six years (depending on interpretation)
- This can range from:
- Fine: P50,000
These are criminal penalties. Meaning, aside from paying fines, the driver or owner may face jail time.
Additional Penalties under DOTC Department Order No. 95-857
These come on top of the RA 8506 penalties:
For the Driver
- First Offense: P1,000
- Subsequent Offenses: P2,000
For the Owner
- First Offense: P3,000
- Subsequent Offenses: P6,000
Vehicle Registration Penalty
- The LTO will suspend the vehicle’s registration.
- The suspension stays until:
- The vehicle is properly converted to left-hand drive,
- An ocular inspection is done, and
- A Certificate of Warranty is submitted.
No conversion means no registration. No registration means you cannot legally use the vehicle.
Are There Exceptions?
Yes, but they are extremely limited. You cannot use an RHD vehicle on the road unless it is:
Allowed RHD Vehicles
- Vintage automobiles manufactured before 1960, still in showroom condition
- Vehicles used exclusively for officially sanctioned motorsports events
- Off-road special-purpose vehicles
These vehicles cannot be used for daily driving. They are only allowed for display, racing, or off-road use.
Why Does the Law Ban Right-hand Drive Vehicles?
A quick look back in history reveals that the Philippines used to drive on the left side of the road. But in 1945, the country switched to the keep right rule. Roads, lanes, visibility angles, and vehicle supply all revolve around left-hand drive design.
Using RHD cars today can cause:
- Limited view when overtaking
- Unsafe turns
- Difficulty judging distance
- Higher risk of accidents
The law was created to protect drivers, pedestrians, and everyone who shares the road.
What Should You Do If You Currently Own an RHD Car?
To avoid penalties and legal trouble, here are your clear next steps:
1. Convert the vehicle to LHD through a qualified shop
Follow PNS 1259-1994 standards. This is required before LTO lifts the registration suspension.
2. Prepare for LTO inspection
You’ll need:
- Ocular inspection
- Certificate of Warranty
3. Avoid using the vehicle on the road until fully compliant
Driving it before conversion risks jail time and additional administrative fines.
4. Verify legality before buying any imported car
Many buyers only discover the issue after purchase.
Car owners and buyers should always remember that unconverted right-hand drive cars are not allowed on Philippine roads, and using one can lead to fines, registration suspension, and even jail time. Before importing or purchasing any vehicle, double-check its legality to avoid expensive mistakes and serious trouble with the LTO. In case you already have one, then you can only proceed with getting it converted unless you don’t intend to use it on public roads.