Tips

LTO Penalty for Late Registration / Delinquent Registration

The late or delinquent registration penalty is usually imposed by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) upon the renewal of a motorcycle or a motor vehicle’s registration beyond the designated deadline. It could set you back by more than a few thousand pesos, on top of the other violations and penalties you will have to settle when you get caught driving or operating vehicles with expired registrations, which is quite terrifying. 

Despite the terrifying prospect of having to face hefty LTO fees and associated violations, however, many people still end up with expired vehicle registrations. It could be due to lack of proper knowledge or maybe willful disobedience, but this article will ensure that you understand what it means to have to pay late and delinquent registration penalties.

penalty for late registration lto

Late vs. Delinquent Registration in LTO

Late and delinquent registration may seem like the same to you but there actually is a difference. When you fail to renew your vehicle registration on time before the deadline, then it is considered late registration and you will be penalized with a late registration fee. 

Delinquency, on the other hand, refers to the late payments that are made past the payment deadline. It generally refers to being 30 days late in cases of credit payments. In cases of LTO registrations, however, this translates to registration delays beyond the registration month, based on the last digit of your plate number. In such cases, the penalty fees will be different from your regular late registration penalty. 

Registration Schedule

Most people forget the date when they registered their vehicles, and that’s why so many fail to get their registration on time. You can actually use your plate number to figure out when you need to have your vehicle re-registered.

All vehicles need to be registered on their assigned week (based on your plate number’s last two digits), and if you miss this crucial period, prepare yourself for more LTO late registration expenses.

From your plate number, you can get the month and the week that you need to proceed to LTO and have your motor vehicle renewed. First, look at the last digit of your plate number, and this will correspond to the month. Next, look at the second to the last digit of your plate number, and this will correspond to the week. It’s pretty simple. 

If your plate number ends in 12, your registration deadline would be as follows:

  • The month of February (based on the last digit, 2) 
  • Week 1 or the first to the seventh working day (based on the second to the last digit

Penalties for Late and Delinquent Registrations

Now that your registration schedule has been cleared up, it’s in your best interest to settle your vehicle registrations accordingly. However, if, for whatever reason, you fail to do so, then you’d better consider doing so as soon as possible. After all, failure to do so is shameful and illegal. Plus, the LTO will only be too happy to carry out well-deserved punishments for willfully disobedient drivers and car owners. 

These punishments also entail fines and penalties listed as follows:

  • Getting caught driving an unregistered motor vehicle carries with it a fine of P10,000. 
  • Worse still, if the non-registration exceeds one month, the unregistered vehicle being driven will be impounded and released only once the registration procedures have been completed and the corresponding fines and penalties have been paid. 
  • If you haven’t registered your car in three years or so and you’re caught on the road, you will lose your car, have to pay the P10,000 fine, and the additional penalties to register your vehicle.

For the actual late registration fees that you will need to pay upon registration renewal, here’s more information:

  • If you go beyond the seven-working-day period for registration, then you will need to pay a penalty of P100 for motorcycles or P200 for all other vehicles.
  • If, however, you go beyond the registration month, but not more than 12 months beyond (based on the last digit), you will be charged an additional penalty equivalent to 50% of the Motor Vehicle User’s Charge (MVUC) for your vehicle class.
  • If you fail to register your vehicle for a period beyond 12 months, then the answer is a bit more complicated.
    • The government will check to see if you have had any apprehensions for violations of any land transportation laws during the period of non-registration.
    • If you were lucky enough not to have incurred any sort of violation or you simply never got caught violating any laws, then you will be charged 50% of the MVUC plus the cost of renewing your registration (once). 
    • If, however, you were apprehended for a violation while your vehicle was not registered, you will be charged 50% of the MVUC plus the cost of renewing your registration for every year that you did not register your vehicle, along with the fees to settle the violation you were initially caught for.

So, there you have it. It may seem complicated since it really is. So, if you own a car or a motorcycle, you need to make sure that you follow the rules and register your vehicle every year. After all, it only takes about half a day and you can already save on a ton of money and headaches. So just do it when you need to and get it over with. 

Video: Guide on Why You Should Renew Your Car Registration on Time

Please check out this video guide outlining the details on why you need to renew your car registration before the registration expires.

Frequently Asked Questions

For more information on the late registration penalty fees and the process for renewal of registration for your car or motorcycle, then here are some information that might help:

1. Can I transfer my next registration to another LTO branch?

Yes. You can completely transfer your next registration to another LTO branch. However, note that while it is allowed, it doesn’t come for free. To transfer your registration, you will need to pay P100.00 for Change of Venue (COV) of your motor vehicle registration. It’s not much, but it’s good to know so you can prepare accordingly and won’t get short on cash when you get there.

2. How much is the fine for LTO penalty for expired motorcycle registration in the Philippines?

As of writing, the LTO still charges a weekly fine of P100 for every week of late registration. If the delay lasts for months, but not longer than a year, then the fine will be equal to 50% of the MVUC.

3. When should I renew my motorcycle registration?

Most people forget the date when they registered their vehicles, and that’s why so many fail to get their registration on time. You can actually use your plate number to figure out when you need to have your vehicle re-registered. To do so, simply take a look at your plate number. From your plate number, you can get the month and the week that you need to proceed to LTO and have your motorcycle renewed. First, look at the last digit of your plate number, and this will correspond to the month. Next, look at the second to the last digit of your plate number, and this will correspond to the week.

4. What if I don’t have a plate number yet?

Because of the backlog in LTO, some motorcycle riders are still waiting for their plate numbers even after a year of registering. If you don’t have a plate number yet, then you may refer to your temporary plate number or the date of release from the dealership and use it as a reference for the renewal date.

If referring to your temporary plate number, ypu may follow the same procedure for a permanent plate number as mentioned above. 

5. Can I renew my vehicle registration in advance?

Yes. Do note that you can opt to renew your motorcycle registration at LTO in advance or at least one month before your prescribed date. But if you go beyond the prescribed deadline based on your plate number information, then and only then will you incur the corresponding penalty for late registration. If it takes many months, you will have to face delinquent registration penalties which are a lot higher. 

Summary

Late and delinquent registration penalty is usually imposed by the LTO upon the renewal of a motorcycle or a motor vehicle’s registration beyond the designated deadline. What makes it scary, however, is not the late or delinquent fees, but the associated violations you might be caught with if you drive this unregistered vehicle. After all, getting caught driving an unregistered vehicle can set you back by at least P10,000.00 in penalties, that is, if you’re lucky enough and they did not impound your vehicle. Otherwise, you’ll have to settle the registration procedures first, then you will need to pay all the penalties before you can get your car or motorcycle back. Quite a hassle, isn’t it? Worse yet, if you incurred other violations, that would mean other extra charges against your wallet. So, if I were you, I’ll just go the usual way, spend half a day at the LTO office and renew my vehicle registration on time. It seems less troublesome that way.

PUVMP: Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program Philippines

The PUVMP, otherwise known as the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program, refers to the jeepney modernization program that started out as a debate topic during the Marcos regime (1965–1986). It is a bid to revolutionize and transform traditional jeepneys and other public utility vehicles (PUVs) which resurfaced as a comprehensive reform program under the Duterte administration in 2017. The program was launched as an ambitious initiative to transform the traditional jeepneys and other public utility vehicles, and effectively address existing issues on safety, efficiency, and environmental impact.

The PUVMP is a comprehensive reform in the public land transportation industry. It was launched as a response to the growing challenges faced by the country’s public transportation system. Outdated vehicles, safety concerns, and worsening environmental issues prompted the need for a comprehensive and modernized program concerning the public utility vehicles (PUVs), and with the PUVMP, the Philippine government hopes that drivers and operators will continue to have stable and dignified livelihoods while the commuters enjoy quick, safe, and comfortable journeys. 

PUVMP Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program

What is PUVMP?

PUVMP stands for the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program. It is a comprehensive reform program headed by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) who later invited the Office of Transportation Cooperatives (OTC)—one of the attached agencies of DOTr—as one of its implementing partners. As it concerns PUVs, the program also involves the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) as one of its collaborators for the reform initiative. 

The program itself mainly aims to improve the most used road-based public utility vehicle, the jeepney, as it has now evolved into a “problem,” thanks to the aggressive driving behavior of its drivers as they compete for passengers. The PUVMP was designed to ‘overhaul’ the transport system and not phase out the iconic jeepney. It proposes fleet modernization, requiring the replacement of jeepney units aged 15 years or older with those featuring Euro 4 or electric engines, equipped with modern amenities like GPS, automated fare collection systems, and closed-circuit television cameras to make the public commute more efficient and safer. With the PUVMP, the DOTr hopes to improve and consolidate the local public land transport service geared towards a restructured, modern, well-managed, and environmentally sustainable transport sector.

Components of the PUVMP

To carry out such a significant transformation of the public transport sector, the PUVMP takes into consideration ten (10) different components.  

These are: 

  • Regulatory reform

  • Local public transport route planning by the local government

  • Route rationalization study

  • Fleet modernisation

  • Industry consolidation

  • Financing PUV modernisation

  • Vehicle useful life program

  • Pilot implementation

  • Stakeholder support mechanism

  • Communication

With these components, the DOTr introduced the PUVMP—a new regulatory policy where modern public utility vehicles have definite transport routes based on passenger demand and road hierarchy. Vehicles are also consolidated from the current dominance of single ownership towards having a ‘common revenue sharing and fleet management’ through a ‘one-route-one-franchise’ system.

Key Objectives

1. Enhanced Safety 

The program prioritizes passenger safety by enforcing rigorous safety standards, including the incorporation of features like anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and air-conditioning.

2. Environmental Sustainability 

Citing concerns about the climate impact of diesel-run jeepneys on air quality and the increased environmental footprint of the increased demand for mass transit, the PUVMP promotes the use of Euro 4-compliant engines, which contribute to lower emissions and improved air quality. Plus, it will also encourage less use of private vehicles and more reliance on public transport, effectively reducing fuel use and vehicle emissions. 

3. Efficiency and Technology Integration 

Modernized vehicles are equipped with GPS tracking systems for efficient route management and automated fare collection systems, streamlining the overall transportation experience.

4. Vehicle Upgrades

Under the PUVMP, the traditional jeepneys are converted from ‘traditional’ jeepneys into ‘modern’ ones. The modernized versions feature not only improved safety and technological advancements that are not kakarag-karag (cranky), bulok (rotten), mausok (smoky), maingay (noisy), and delikado (unsafe) mass transport system, but also a more standardized and regulated design.

5. Economic Impact

The program is anticipated to have a positive impact on the economy. By improving public transportation services, the PUVMP aims to attract more passengers, enhance tourism, and contribute to the overall economic development of local communities.

6. Consolidated Transport Service

Under the PUVMP, public land transport service will be consolidated into a bigger, more coordinated fleet with a ‘common revenue sharing and fleet management’ system from the current dominance of single ownership in order to facilitate PUV operators in securing loans for new units, streamline route planning based on passenger demand, implement a fixed salary scheme for drivers, and operate their units in a systematic and predictable manner, according to Memorandum Circular 2023-017 issued by the LTFRB.

PUVMP Funding

This reform, outlined in the Department of Transportation (DOTr) Department Order No. 2017-011, aims to reshape the sector into a modern, well-managed, and environmentally sustainable mode of transportation. It also includes provision for funding, with plans to provide loan programs through the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP). Under the program, both the LBP and the DBP will offer a Php 160,000 (USD 3200) subsidy per modern vehicle, an increase from the initial Php 80,000 (USD 1575) subsidy. Transport cooperatives, however, must opt for loans with a seven-year repayment period at a 6% interest rate per annum. 

Challenges and Controversies

While the PUVMP holds the promise of a more efficient and sustainable transportation system, it has not been without challenges. Some operators and drivers of traditional jeepneys have expressed concerns about the financial burden of upgrading, and debates over cultural preservation have surfaced as the iconic appearance of jeepneys undergoes changes.

Just recently, some transport and commuter rights groups, led by Piston president Mody Floranda, filed a 56-page petition urging the Supreme Court to halt and nullify government orders mandating franchise consolidation by December 31, 2023. This consolidation is part of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), specifically targeting the phaseout of traditional jeepneys. The petition aims to prevent the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) from enforcing this contentious program which they believe to have overly broad provisions that abuse the discretion and violate their constitutional right to freedom of association as well as the voluntary nature of a cooperative under Republic Act (RA) No. 9520 or the Cooperative Code. They also tagged the PUVMP as oppressive, overreaching, and confiscatory. 

Video: PUVMP Challenges, Issues, and Updates Webinar

Learn more about PUVMP, particularly the challenges, issues, and updates on this controversial public land transport reform program by watching this recorded video from UP National Center for Transportation Studies.

Summary

As the Philippines continues to roll out the PUVMP, the nation stands at the threshold of a modernized and efficient public transportation system. Balancing the need for progress with the preservation of cultural identity remains a crucial aspect of this transformative initiative. However, the challenges remain. While the government sees PUVMP as a step towards a safer and more sustainable future that also reflects the resilience and adaptability of the Filipino transportation landscape, the affected transport and commuter groups are adamant about putting a halt to its implementation, citing aggressive, abusive, and unconstitutional provisions that violate their constitutional rights. 

To date, the argument remains, though the other provisions except for the consolidation of franchise mandated under the PUVMP continues to be implemented nationwide. 

Driving With a Fake License is Prohibited and is Punishable by

Driving with a fake license is prohibited and is punishable by law. According to existing Philippine laws, being caught driving with a fake license is prohibited and punishable by law. Anyone caught doing so will be required to pay a fine amounting to P3,000.00 on the first offense and will be disqualified from being granted a driver’s license and driving a motor vehicle for one year from the payment of the fine. There are stiffer penalties for other violations similar to the use of fake license as well, including driving without a license, driving with an expired license, reckless driving, and drunk driving, etc.

As driving is a mere privilege afforded by the state to those who wish to handle and operate a motor vehicle on public roads, it comes with the great responsibility of obtaining a valid driver’s license and ensuring road safety at all times. In the Philippines, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) is the governing body responsible for issuing driver’s licenses. However, some individuals may be tempted to use fake licenses, either out of ignorance or with ill intent. Regardless of the reasons behind it, the use of fake licenses in the Philippines is illegal and may result in having to face serious legal consequences.

Driving With a Fake License is Prohibited and is Punishable by

The Importance of a Valid Driver’s License

A driver’s license is not just a piece of identification; it serves as evidence that the bearer has gone through and completed all the necessary training, passed the required tests, and is fit and roadworthy enough to operate a motor vehicle on the open roads. It is a vital document that signifies a driver’s understanding of traffic rules and regulations and the responsibility that comes with being allowed on the road.

Benefits of Having a Valid Driver’s License

Having a valid driver’s license in the Philippines comes with several benefits, including:

Legal Authorization to Drive

A valid driver’s license serves as legal authorization to operate a motor vehicle on public roads. It demonstrates that the license holder has undergone the necessary training and testing to ensure they are competent and aware of traffic rules and regulations.

Avoidance of Legal Consequences

Driving without a valid license can lead to legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and other penalties. Having a valid license helps individuals avoid these legal issues, promoting responsible and lawful behavior on the road.

Road Safety

A valid driver’s license signifies that the holder has acquired the skills and knowledge needed for safe driving. This contributes to overall road safety by ensuring that individuals on the road are aware of traffic rules, road signs, and proper driving etiquette.

Insurance Coverage

Insurance companies often require a valid driver’s license for coverage. In the event of an accident, having a valid license ensures that the driver is eligible for insurance benefits, covering damages, medical expenses, and other related costs.

Employment Opportunities

Some job positions require a valid driver’s license, especially those involving driving responsibilities. Having a license can enhance employment opportunities and make individuals more versatile in the job market.

Convenience in Daily Life

A driver’s license provides convenience in daily life, enabling individuals to drive themselves to work, school, or other places without relying on public transportation or others for rides. This independence can significantly improve one’s quality of life.

Identification

In addition to serving as a driving permit, a driver’s license also serves as a valid form of identification. It is often accepted as a primary identification document in various non-driving situations, such as opening a bank account or applying for certain services.

Travel Flexibility

A driver’s license is a widely accepted form of identification, making it useful for domestic travel. It can also be required when renting vehicles for travel purposes. Having a valid license provides flexibility and convenience when exploring different regions.

Responsibility and Accountability

Obtaining and maintaining a valid driver’s license reflects a commitment to responsible and accountable behavior on the road. It is a demonstration of one’s understanding of the importance of road safety and adherence to traffic laws.

Personal Achievement

For many individuals, obtaining a driver’s license is a milestone and a personal achievement. It signifies the successful completion of training and testing, boosting confidence and self-esteem.

Legal Consequences of Using a Fake Driver’s License

On the flip side, driving with a fake driver’s license is prohibited and may result in the following consequences

Legal Liability

Driving with a fake license is a criminal offense in the Philippines. The legal consequences include imprisonment and hefty fines. The authorities take a strong stance against the falsification of official documents, emphasizing the importance of upholding the integrity of the licensing system.

Administrative Sanctions

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) can impose administrative sanctions, such as revoking driving privileges, imposing fines, and requiring attendance in seminars or retraining programs. These measures are designed to discourage individuals from attempting to deceive the licensing authorities.

Vehicle Impoundment

Individuals caught driving with a fake license may face the impoundment of their vehicle. This additional penalty serves as a deterrent and reinforces the seriousness of using fraudulent documents in connection with driving.

Difficulty Obtaining Legitimate License

Those caught with a fake license may encounter challenges when applying for a legitimate driver’s license in the future. The LTO may deny their application, making it clear that engaging in fraudulent activities can have lasting consequences.

Voided Insurance Coverage

If involved in an accident, individuals using a fake license risk having their insurance coverage voided. This means they would be personally liable for all damages, medical expenses, and other costs arising from the incident, putting a significant financial burden on them.

Compromised Road Safety

Driving with a fake license undermines road safety. Legitimate licenses ensure that drivers have undergone proper training and testing, contributing to a safer driving environment for everyone on the road. Falsifying documents puts both the driver and others at risk.

Criminal Record

Being convicted of using a fake driver’s license results in a criminal record. This record can have long-term consequences for you, affecting employment opportunities, travel, and other aspects of one’s life. The impact extends beyond the immediate legal penalties.

Social Stigma

Individuals caught using fake driver’s licenses may face social stigma and damage to their reputation. Word of such offenses can spread within communities, affecting relationships and credibility.

Diminished Trust in Licensing System

The use of fake driver’s licenses also undermines the trust in the Philippine licensing system. It erodes the credibility of legitimate licenses and creates skepticism among the public, making it harder for authorities to ensure road safety and regulate drivers effectively.

Disregard of Ethical Responsibility

Beyond the legal and practical consequences, there is an ethical responsibility to adhere to the law and contribute to a safe and responsible driving culture. Choosing to drive with a fake license disregards this responsibility and jeopardizes the well-being of oneself and others on the road.

Penalties for Driving with a Fake License in the Philippines

According to Section 31 of the Republic Act 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, driving with a fake license is prohibited. The law says that “no person shall falsely or fraudulently represent as valid and in force any driver’s license, badge, certificate, plate, tag or permit issued under this Act which is delinquent or which has been revoked or suspended…”

If caught driving with a fake license, the penalties will be as follows:

Department Order (DO) 2008-39

According to the LTO Department Order (DO) 2008-39, which became effective starting March 2009, a penalty of P5,000.00 will be imposed on drunk drivers and P10,000.00 on drivers under the influence of drugs. The DO also imposes fines anounting to P1,500.00 for driving without a license, P400.00 for driving with an expired license, P2,000.00 for possessing a fake driver’s license, P3,000.00 for a conviction for a crime perpetrated with the use of a motor vehicle, and P6,000.00 for driving a public utility vehicle out of line. There’s also a fine of P50,000.00 on public utility jeepneys plying the routes without a franchise, P6,000.00 for motorcycles, P120,000.00 for sedans, P200,000.00 for vans, and up to P1 million pesos for buses who are caught violating this LTO order.

Joint Administrative Order (JAO) No. 2014-01

In 2014, DO 2008-39 was superseded by the DOTr Joint Administrative Order (JAO) No. 2014-01, a set of stiffer new rules prescribed by both the Land Transportation Office and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board and accepted by the Inter-Agency Council for Traffic (IACT)—a special board composed of representatives from the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Land Transportation Office (LTO), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG), and Metro Manila Council (MMC). According to JAO 2014-01, erring drivers and operators will have to pay higher fines or settle with stricter penalties for violations related to licensing. Under the same joint order, motorists who are found to be bearing and using a fake driver’s license shall be subjected to a fine of P3,000.00 and will be disqualified from being granted a license and driving a motor vehicle for one year from the payment of the fine.

Article 1 Section 56 of the Revised Penal Code

This penalty imposed by JAO 2014-01 is further intensified by Article 1 Section 56 of the Revised Penal Code, which states that a motorist caught attempting to use or using a fake driver’s license will be fined with not more than P3,000.00 or will be imprisoned for up to six months.

How to Verify if a Driver’s License is Authentic

In order to avoid being conned into securing a fake license or if you simply want to be able to tell a fake and authentic driver’s license apart, then you’d want to verifying its authenticity. The authenticity of an LTO (Land Transportation Office) driver’s license is generally marked by several security features. The most popular license card security features include holograms, microprint, and the license’s overall design, typeface, and color. You can also verify the driver’s license number with the local licensing authority or use any online verification tools provided by the LTO. Though these features are quite unique, some fake licenses bears features that may seem very close to the authentic one, so if you are in doubt and in need help on how to spot a fake driver’s license, you can always contact the relevant authorities for assistance via these contact information:

Via the LTMS portal: Visit the LTO’s official website and fill out their Contact Us form available via this link: https://portal.lto.gov.ph/ords/f?p=PUBLIC_PORTAL:CONTACT_US:115716301949471
Via phone call: You may contact them at their telephone number (632) 922-9061 to 66.
Via email: You may also send them an email at clientcare@lto.gov.ph.
Via the LTO Text Hotline Service: You may use LTO’s nationwide SMS service for drivers and vehicle owners by typing LTOHELP and sending it to 2600
By visiting the LTO office: For more information, you may also check this list of LTO offices in the Philippines for the LTO branch closest to your place or work or residence.

Note that the LTO Text Hotline service is available during office hours on weekdays. If you avail this service after 5 PM, you won’t get any replies, but you will still be charged a Php 2.00 fee, as it is the fee using that service.

Video: How to Spot Fake Driver’s License Philippines

Learn about how to spot a fake driver’s license in the Philippines by watching this video from Carluto TV:

Summary

Driving with a fake license in the Philippines is not only a breach of trust but also a serious legal offense. The consequences extend beyond fines and imprisonment, affecting an individual’s driving privileges, eligibility for a legitimate license, and even their ability to secure insurance coverage. It is imperative for everyone to recognize the importance of abiding by the law and obtaining a valid driver’s license through legal means. The risks associated with using a fake license far outweigh any perceived benefits, emphasizing the need for responsible and lawful behavior on the road.

error: Content is protected !!