Tips

The No-Contact Apprehension Policy (NCAP) uses CCTV cameras and plate recognition systems to catch traffic violators without physically flagging them down. While it aims to improve road safety, many motorists find themselves receiving Notices of Violation (NOVs) they wish to contest—whether due to mistaken identity, technical errors, or valid emergencies.

If you believe you were wrongly cited, this guide explains how to contest or appeal an NCAP violation through the MMDA or concerned local government units (LGUs).

Why Contest an NCAP Violation?

Failing to address a Notice of Violation (NOV) can lead to bigger problems. If left unpaid, it can:

• Place your vehicle on LTO’s registration hold, preventing renewal.
• Accrue surcharges and penalties.
• Lead to civil or small-claims cases.
• Affect your car’s resale value.
  

Who can Contest an NCAP Violation?

Under the NCAP rules, the one who can contest or appeal a Notice of Violation (NOV) depends on who the violation is issued to:

• Registered Owner (RO): Since NCAP citations are tied to the plate number, the registered owner of the vehicle (as reflected in the LTO Certificate of Registration) is the primary party who must file the contest.
• Actual Driver: If someone else was driving, the registered owner can file a Driver’s Identification (notarized) to point to the real driver. The adjudication board may then summon that driver to explain.
• Corporation or Company Vehicles: For vehicles under a corporation, the company must issue a board resolution identifying the employee/driver responsible. The corporation may later seek reimbursement from that driver.
• Authorized Representative: A person with a notarized Special Power of Attorney (SPA) can contest on behalf of the registered owner (common if the RO is abroad or unavailable).
  

Note: Only the registered owner (or their authorized representative) can initiate the appeal, since NCAP links the violation directly to the vehicle registration.

Requirements  

Prepare the following documents for uploading or submission:

• Notice of Violation (NOV) or citation ticket
• LTO-issued Certificate of Registration (CR)
• LTO-issued Official Receipt (OR)
• Valid Driver’s License
• Other supporting evidence (e.g., dash-cam footage, sworn statements, proof of sale, or emergency documents)

How to File an NCAP Appeal with the MMDA

You have two main options: filing online or in person.

Online (E-Contest)

Step 1. Sign up for a new account or log into your existing account to access the official NCAP May Huli Ka e-contest portal: https://econtest.mmda.gov.ph/

Step 2. Exclusive to NCAP tickets issued by the MMDA.

Step 3. Submit up to five tickets per complaint form.

Step 4. Upload the required documents (see list above).

Step 5. Be truthful—submitting false information or spurious documents may lead to:

• ₱6,000 fine for falsified documents.
• Possible perjury charges.
• Permanent disqualification from the system.
  

In Person

Step 1. File your appeal at the MMDA Traffic Adjudication Division (TAD):

• Location: MMDA Head Office, Julia Vargas Ave. corner Molave St., Brgy. Ugong, Pasig City
• Office hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Step 2. You may also be required to present original or certified true copies of your documents at the TAD, 11th Floor, MMDA New Building, Pasig City.

Grounds Commonly Accepted for Dismissal

Your appeal is stronger if it falls under any of these categories:

• Wrong plate number or mistaken identity – provide clear photos or affidavits.
• Sold or stolen vehicle – submit notarized deed of sale or PNP theft record.
• Emergency situations – provide medical or dispatch records.
• Obscured signs or defective traffic lights – submit geo-tagged photos or witness affidavits.
• Technical errors – calibration lapses, software glitches, or improper chain of custody.
• Force majeure – e.g., floods or natural disasters documented by PAGASA bulletins.

Contesting NCAP Violations in LGUs

Different cities have their own procedures and timelines. Always check the issuing LGU before filing.

• Manila: File a notarized complaint within 10 days at the Manila Traffic Adjudication Board (MTAB).
• Parañaque: File a notarized complaint within 5 days at the Parañaque Traffic Adjudication Board (PTAB).
• Quezon City: File a notarized protest form within 10 days at the Quezon City Traffic Adjudication Board (QCTAB).
• Valenzuela: File within 5 days at the Valenzuela City Traffic Adjudication Committee (VCTVAC).
  

Note: Forms are usually downloadable under the FAQs section of the city’s NCAP website. Always attach notarized forms and supporting proof (e.g., emergency evidence).

Appeal Routes if Denied

If your initial protest is rejected, you can still appeal:

• City/Mayor’s Office: File within 15 days using a Memorandum of Appeal.
• Sanggunian / City Council: Some cities allow a further appeal.
• Regional Trial Court (RTC): File within 30 days via Petition for Certiorari or Appeal under Rule 43.
• Court of Appeals → Supreme Court: File as provided under the Rules of Court, typically for questions of law.
  

Note: Paying fines “under protest” can help lift an LTO hold faster while keeping your right to appeal intact.

Consequences of Ignoring an NOV

If you don’t contest or pay, you may face:

• LTO registration alarm (no renewal until cleared).
• Surcharges of up to 5% per month.
• Collection cases filed by LGUs.
• Enforcement through a writ of execution.

Preventive and Practical Tips

Naturally, as in any case, prevention is always better than cure. Make sure to avoid any NCAP violation citation by following these tips: 

• Keep your OR/CR details updated with the LTO.
• Install a dash-cam with GPS and timestamp.
• Document traffic conditions if signs or lights are faulty.
• Regularly check LGU portals for pending violations.
• When buying a used vehicle, request an LTO clearance of no apprehension and an LGU clearance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For your reference, here are some common questions and answers regarding filing appeals concerning NCAP violations:

1. Is NCAP still suspended nationwide?

The Supreme Court’s TRO (2022) technically remains, but some LGUs have re-implemented NCAP under revised ordinances. Always confirm with the issuing city. The MMDA NCAP has been relaunched and a new website, May Huli Ka 2.0 has been created for checking citations under NCAP.

2. Who must appear at hearings?

The registered owner of the vehicle. If another driver was responsible, submit a notarized Driver’s Identification.

3. Will contesting stop surcharges?

Yes, if filed within the allowed period. Late appeals may still be entertained, but penalties may continue to add up.

4. Can I protest after paying?

No. Once you pay without “under protest” annotation, the case is closed.

Video: Understanding Relaunched NCAP 

The relaunched NCAP essentially operates the same, though the MMDA and LTO has worked to address the issues that led to its suspension in 2022. Contesting an NCAP violation can now be done either online via the MMDA E-Contest system or directly at the concerned LGU. Before filing a protest, be sure that you understand how it works and how you got flagged for violations. For more information, you may want to check out this video:

Need More Help? 

For questions, concerns, or verification, you may reach out to:

MMDA NCAP Office

• Contact Number: +632 8898 4200 loc. 1084
• Email: noncontact@mmda.gov.ph / ncap2@mmda.gov.ph
• MMDA Head Office: Julia Vargas Ave. cor. Molave St., Pasig City
• MMDA Hotline: 136

If you’re a tourist planning to explore the Philippines by car, you’ll be glad to know that foreigners can legally drive in the country — but only under certain conditions. Whether you’re staying for a short vacation or an extended visit, it’s important to understand the local rules set by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) to avoid fines and ensure a smooth driving experience.

To learn more about the rules and conditions of having a foreigner driving in the Philippines during his stay, we prepared this guide for you. 

Can Tourists Actually Drive in the Philippines?

The short answer is: Yes, tourists can drive in the Philippines, but only for 90 days. Under Republic Act No. 4136, also known as the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, tourists or short-term visitors are allowed to legally drive in the Philippines for up to 90 days from their date of arrival.

Tourist drivers can use their valid foreign driver’s license during this period as long as it’s in English. If the license is not in English, then it is a must to carry an official English translation issued by the embassy. Alternatively, if you have an International Driving Permit (IDP), it’s also accepted — but it should be accompanied by the original foreign license.

For Short-Term Visitors (Up to 90 Days)

If you’re a foreigner and you’re only visiting for a few weeks or months, here’s what you’ll need to drive legally:

• Valid Foreign Driver’s License: Must be current and not expired.
• English License or Translation: Non-English licenses must be translated and certified by your embassy.
• International Driving Permit (Optional): Useful if your license isn’t in English, or if you plan to rent vehicles frequently.
• Passport: Always bring your passport as proof of your entry date.

This setup makes it convenient for tourists who want to explore destinations such as Palawan, Baguio, or Cebu by car without the hassle of obtaining a local license.

For Long-Term Visitors (Over 90 Days)

If you plan to stay longer than three months, your foreign license will no longer be valid for driving in the Philippines. You’ll need to convert your foreign license to a Philippine driver’s license through the LTO.

Here’s an overview of what you’ll need:

• Original and photocopy of your valid foreign license
• Passport showing your latest date of arrival
• Valid visa or Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR) if you’re residing temporarily
• Medical certificate issued by an LTO-accredited physician
• Completed Application for Driver’s License (ADL) form

If your foreign license is still valid, you usually won’t need to take the written or practical exams. However, expired foreign licenses require you to take both tests before conversion. The cost of getting a Philippine non-professional license typically ranges from ₱500 to ₱1,000, depending on your situation and the LTO branch.

Tips for Foreign Drivers in the Philippines

If you are a foreigner and you are planning to drive yourself around during your visit, then you’d best keep these things in mind:

• Always carry your license and passport while driving.
• Check local traffic rules — driving is on the right-hand side in the Philippines.
• Expect heavy traffic in Metro Manila and major cities; plan your routes ahead.
• Follow LTO regulations and keep copies of your vehicle registration and insurance.
• For updates or clarifications, visit the official LTO website at www.lto.gov.ph.

Video: Can Foreigners Drive in the Philippines?

Whether you’re cruising along the beaches of Siargao or navigating the mountain roads of Baguio, make sure your paperwork is in order so you can enjoy your Philippine road trip — safely, legally, and hassle-free. You may also check out this video to learn more:

For the latest requirements and official updates, always refer to the Land Transportation Office (LTO) or your respective embassy in the Philippines.

Driving when your license plate is not yet released means you are operating a registered vehicle that is still waiting for its official LTO plate number. It is allowed, as long as you have a temporary plate issued by your dealer and carry your Official Receipt (OR) and Certificate of Registration (CR) at all times. However, driving without any plate or proper authorization from the LTO may lead to fines or your vehicle being impounded.

If you’ve bought a new car or motorcycle in the Philippines but your official LTO license plate is not yet available, then this guide can tell you what to do and how you can drive your car legally.

What To Do If Your License Plate is Not Yet Released

Given the amount of time it takes for the license plates to be released by the LTO, it really isn’t practical to wait for them before driving your car around. While it’s frustrating to wait around for your plate, it’s not a reason to go bad and use fake or unapproved improvised plates. In fact, it’s best to avoid them altogether as getting caught doing so may result in confiscation and stiffer fines. But this doesn’t mean you can’t drive your car at all either. There are some ways around the LTO policies and still legally drive, though they may bot always apply as some things change at any time.

Until your official license plate is released, the best thing you can do is:

1. Use a Temporary Plate (Legally)

While waiting for your official LTO plate number, your dealer should provide a temporary plate. This serves as a legal placeholder until your real one is released.

A temporary plate helps you:

• Drive legally without risking apprehension.
• Avoid the ₱5,000 fine for “no plate” violations.
• Show your vehicle is properly registered with the LTO.

Note: Always display the temporary plate on your vehicle and keep it readable. Avoid handwritten or improvised plates unless officially authorized by the LTO.

Update: Just recently, the LTO has imposed a ban on the use of temporary and improvised plates. Days later, the LTO Chief himself, Markus Lacanilao, suspended the ban on temporary and improvised plates, which was supposed to take effect on November 1. This means motorists with pending plate releases won’t be fined for using temporary and improvised plates for now — but you must still secure proper authorization from your dealer or LTO. Take note that the same day registration and release policy of the LTO has also been suspended.

2. Always Carry Your OR/CR

Even with a temporary plate, you must always have your Official Receipt (OR) and Certificate of Registration (CR) — or at least copies — in your vehicle. After all, these documents prove that your car or motorcycle is registered with the LTO. If you’re caught without them, your vehicle could be towed or impounded.

3. Check Your Plate Status Online

Before heading to your dealer, check if your license plate has already been released.

You can:

• Visit the LTO Plate Inquiry page or
• Check the official LTO Facebook pages, which regularly posts plate release updates.

Simply enter your vehicle’s MV file number (found on your CR) to see if your plate is available.

4. Follow Up With Your Dealer

It’s your dealer’s responsibility to claim and release your plates from the LTO once available. Having said that, if the LTO tracker shows that your plates have been released, you must contact your dealership immediately. Ask for confirmation and request a timeline for when you can pick them up.

Note: Don’t hesitate to escalate to a manager or customer relations officer if your initial follow-ups are ignored. You can also always go to LTO for complaints, but it’s best to contact the dealership first.

5. Inquire Directly with the LTO

If your dealer cannot give a clear answer or the delay has gone on for months, contact the nearest LTO office. You can visit or message the LTO Main Office, regional office, or district office where your vehicle was registered. Bring your OR/CR and any correspondence with the dealer as proof.

This step helps verify if your plates are:

• Still pending in production,
• Already released to your dealer, or
• Delayed due to administrative or backlog issues.

6. Report Unreasonable Delays

If you suspect your dealer is withholding or mishandling plate releases for any reason, then your best bet is to report them to the LTO Anti-Fixers or Complaints Division. The LTO has policies protecting vehicle owners from dealers who delay plate distribution. Reporting such cases helps prevent further abuse and ensures accountability.

You may send complaints through:

• The LTO official website complaint form, or
• Their official Facebook page (@ltophilippines).

Potential Consequences of Driving Without Your Plate

Driving without your license plate and without observing the guidelines above could easily result in several consequences such as:

• Fines and penalties: The LTO may issue a citation and fine you up to ₱5,000 for driving without proper plates or authorization.
• Vehicle impoundment: Driving without an OR/CR or with an unauthorized plate can lead to your car or motorcycle being towed or impounded until you settle the issue.
• Delays in plate release: Incomplete documents, dealer miscommunication, or missed updates may cause further delays in claiming your official plate.
• Legal issues: Using fake, decorative, or handwritten improvised plates can be considered a violation of LTO registration laws, leading to heavier penalties or even criminal charges.
• Inconvenience and stress: You may face trouble during checkpoints, road trips, or renewal of registration if your vehicle’s plate and documents are not in order.
• Loss of dealer accountability: Without records of your follow-ups, it becomes harder to hold your dealer responsible for delays or unclaimed plates.

Video: LTO Guidelines on License Plates Issuance

To learn more about what you can do if your license plate is not yet released, watch this:

@ltophilippines Matagal ko nang nabili yung sasakyan ko pero hanggang ngayon wala pa ring plaka. Ano ang dapat kong gawin? #LTOPH #LTOPhilippines #BagongPilipinas #fyp #learnontiktok #lto ♬ original sound  – LTO Philippines