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No Helmet Violation Fee for Motorcycle Drivers Philippines

The No Helmet Violation refers to the violation incurred when a traffic enforcer or an officer from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) tags a driver for not wearing a helmet when driving or riding a motorcycle. Skipping out on the helmet is illegal, since wearing a helmet for motorbike riders is mandated by law in a bid to give extra protection, both to the driver and the passenger. Depending on the number of offenses and the citation, LTO can sanction a pently fee that ranges from P1,500.00 up to P20,000.00.

Helmets are safety gears designed to protect the head of both rider and passenger and promote overall ride safety. Because it serves as the rider’s main protection in case of accidents, the LTO works extra hard to ensure that everyone at least has this sort of protection, while riding their motorcycles on public roads.

no helmet violation fee motorcycle drivers philippines

What is the No Helmet Violation Penalty

A No Helmet Violation is the violation incurred when one drives or rides a motorcycle without wearing a helmet. If you are not aware, being on a motorcycle without a helmet is illegal and subject to apprehension and fines. Regardless of the form of roads or the length of trip that the riders are traveling, it is a must for them to wear a standard protective helmet as the main protection in case of accidents, thanks to the provisions of RA No. 10054, also known as the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009.

As one of the most commonly violated laws in the country, the Motorcycle Helmet Act requires drivers and back riders to wear full-face protective motorcycle helmets with an Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) sticker. It was designed to secure and safeguard the citizenry. It is also designed for the operators or drivers of motorcycles and their passengers, as a preventive protection from the ruinous and extremely injurious effects of fatal or life threatening accidents and crashes. 

Aside from the riders, the Motorcycle Helmet Act also covers provisions requiring every seller and/or dealer to ensure that a new motorcycle helmet bearing the Philippine Standard (PS) mark and the Import Commodity Clearance (ICC) of the Bureau of Product Standards (BPS) is issued every time a new motorcycle unit is purchased. Failure to comply with the requirements provided also constitutes a violation of this law.

Who Is It For

The Motorcycle Helmet Act was especially created for the protection of all motorcycle riders. Under the law, all motorcycle riders must wear standard protective motorcycle helmets while driving, regardless if it’s a long or a short drive, and of the type of road and highway. The No Helmet Violation is a consequence of violating the Motorcycle Helmet Act.

Who are Exempted from Wearing Helmets

Like any law, even the Motorcycle Helmet Act has exemptions. In this case, drivers of tricycles shall be exempted from being tagged for No Helmet Violations since they are exempted from complying with the mandatory wearing of motorcycle helmets as provided for in the Motorcycle Helmet Act. 

How Much is the Fine or Penalty for No Helmet Violation

No Helmet Violation in the Philippines is one of the driving violations punishable by law. One who incurs this violation may be subjected to a fine ranging from P1,500.00 up to P20,000.00.

The penalties are imposed as follows:

  • Any person caught not wearing the standard protective motorcycle helmet.
    • First offense: P1,500.00
    • Second offense: P3,000.00
    • Third offense: P5,000.00
    • Fourth and subsequent offense: P10,000.00
  • Any seller and/or dealer who violates the provision requiring them to provide a new helmet that passes local safety standards for every purchase of a new motorcycle.
    • First and subsequent offense: not less than P10,000.00 but not more than P20,000.00
  • Any person who uses, sells, and distributes substandard motorcycle helmets or those which do not bear the PS mark or the ICC certificate.
    • First offense: P3,000.00
    • Second offense: P5,000.00
  • Tampering, alteration, forgery and imitation of the PS mark and the ICC certificates in the helmets.
    • First and subsequent offense: not less than P10,000.00 but not more than P20,000.00.

How to Settle No Helmet Violations

Settling a No Helmet Violation may vary depending on where the driver or operator of a motorcycle was apprehended. You may visit the Land Transport Management System (LTMS) portal and log in to check your violations and settle your payment there. Or, you may opt to visit the nearest LTO branch or satellite office closest to you.

When Should I Settle My No Helmet Violation

Motorcycle riders who were apprehended due to No Helmet Violation must settle their violation through the LTO within fifteen (15) days of the apprehension.

Important Reminders

For your reference, here are some important tips worth taking note of:

  • The No Helmet Violation is a resulting violation for not following the mandates of the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009.
  • The Motorcycle Helmet Act not only covers non-wearing of helmets but also non-issuance of standard protective helmets.
  • The provisions of the law also penalizes manufacturers and dealers for issuance of substandard helmets. 
  • The Motorcycle Helmet Act is a law mandated to protect both the drivers and riders. 
  • Settling violations related to non-use of helmets can be done online by registering for an account on the LTMS portal or in person at the LTO branches.

Video: Settling the No Helmet Violation at the LTO

Learn more about how to settle your No Helmet Violations at the LTO by watching this video from Je, Ads TV:

https://youtu.be/DqJ6HtHqcvc

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For more information, you may check the common questions and answers regarding the No Helmet Violation here:

1. Why is it illegal to not wear a helmet?

Helmets are one of the rider’s main protection in case of accidents. With the Motorcycle Helmet Act in place, the agency helps promote the use of this protective gear, by making it illegal to ride without one.

2. Is it mandatory to wear a helmet?

Yes. Riders and passengers who travel on any form of roads or highways, whether it is a short trip or long, must be wearing a standard protective helmet, thanks to RA No. 10054, also known as the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009.

3. What are the allowed helmets in the Philippines?

To make sure you won’t get apprehended, you should be wearing a full-face helmet that bears an ICC sticker when riding a motorcycle. Of course, the helmet should also have passed local safety standards which certifies that the protective gear is safe to use. 

4. Are all helmets the same?

No. There are some helmets you can’t use while riding motorcycles in the Philippines. These are helmets that are not meant for motorcycles, like bike helmets, skateboard helmets, and others. In addition, some helmets don’t have an ICC sticker, so they can’t be used legally even if they are of the right type.

5. Is my back rider or passenger also required to wear a helmet?

Yes. Both the rider and the back rider or passenger are riding the same motorcycle and facing the same risks, so the two of them must be wearing the same appropriate helmet to help keep them safe on the road.

6. Who is exempted from wearing a helmet?

Only tricycle drivers are exempted from wearing a helmet. Other motorcycle riders are required to wear one at all times. Those riding small e-bikes are also encouraged to wear helmets whenever possible.

7. What are the different types of motorcycle helmets?

The different types of motorcycle helmets include:

  • Full-face helmet
  • Open-face helmet
  • Half helmets
  • Modular helmets
  • Dual-sport helmets
  • Off-road helmets

8. What is an ICC sticker for?

A helmet with an ICC sticker means that it meets the ICC standards and has passed the test to get an ICC Certification. The acronym stands for Import Commodity Clearance. The sticker is a Philippine Standard mark and is issued by the Bureau of Product Standards (BPS).

9. What does DOT, ECE, and Snell mean?

These are the different counterparts of the ICC Certification in other countries.

  • The DOT stands for the Department of Transportation in the United States. Having this sticker means that it passed the bare minimum standard for motorcycle helmets issued in the USA.
  • The ECE is also known as the Economic Commission for Europe. Helmets with the ECE stickers mean that they have passed the test to be legally issued in Europe. It is said that an ECE certification holds more power since the testing procedures are more stringent.
  • The Snell is a certification that is named after William “Pete” Snell, a racing driver who died after sustaining severe head injuries when his helmet failed to provide enough protection during a crash. That said, helmets with this certification usually belong to a special niche as they are primarily used by racing drivers/riders. They are usually lightweight and overengineered, making them more expensive than the traditional helmet.

Summary

The No Helmet Violation refers to violations against the Motorcycle Helmet Act of 2009. It refers to non-use of helmets, which can pose risks to motorcycle riders and passengers. Due to the role played by helmets in the protection of the riders, the government has made it mandatory and breaking this rule entails a ticket, penalty, or fine after being tagged for No Helmet Violation.

How to Change Engine of Motor Vehicle in LTO

Changing the engine through “modification,” contrary to popular belief, is not prohibited, as long as it meets the standards of approved parameters. That means that modification of the engine or its basic components are allowed so long as it does not change the vehicle classification. Changing the engine in a way that affects its performance, so long as it does not compromise the road safety in any way, is not prohibited by the rules and regulations of the Land Transportation Office (LTO). 

Changing the engine of a vehicle, while not prohibited, still requires a Certificate of Road Safety from the manufacturer before it can be allowed. It is, however, subject to inspection by the LTO for possible reclassification. Aside from this, changing engines is allowed upon application for a permit to do so. 

change engine of vehicle in lto

LTO Vehicle Modifications: Change Engine

There are different types of car or vehicle modifications. However, for our purposes, we are only discussing the changes in engine for private and for-hire motor vehicles in the country. Just like other types of changes in motor vehicles though, a change in the engine of a motor vehicle inherently changes the factory original,  effectively customizing it to your needs and preferences. 

Changing a car engine is one of the more difficult modifications you can ever engage  in. It requires different approaches depending on whether the engine is new, rebuilt, or taken out of donor cars. Though the process of engine swap may vary depending on the make and model, most of the processes are fairly universal, so it is possible to check for a guideline of the procedures required.

Benefits of Changing the Engine of a Motor Vehicle

Being able to change your vehicle’s engine at will means enjoying the following benefits: 

  • You may upgrade your vehicle into one that suits your speed and performance preferences.

  • A change in vehicle engine may give the car a better resale value.

  • Depending on the type of engine source you choose, you may be able to enjoy a longer vehicle lifespan. 

  • You may be able to get a safer car, especially when swapping with a new motor as they usually have better performance.

  • It gives you freedom to decide how you want your car to perform.

  • You can save more money as engine swapping is cheaper than buying a new car.

Eligibility to Change the Engine of a Motor Vehicle

Just like when making any other type of modifications, changing the engine of a motor vehicle is allowed to anyone who owns a registered motor vehicle and who intends to swap engines for whatever reason. These changes are allowed by LTO, provided that those who are requesting for such change can present all the requirements and have the ability to pay all the relevant LTO fees.

LTO Requirements for Engine Swapping

Car modifications resulting in changes in the car engine may be allowed, but it has to be declared and permitted by the LTO. As such, engine swapping requires the car owners to inform the relevant authorities of the changes. When you are applying to change the engine of your motor vehicle, you need to be ready with the following list of documents.

General Requirements

The basic requirements include the following:

Additional Requirements

The need for additional documents may vary depending on the type of change the car owner wishes to apply for. For changes in the car body design, here’s a list of the additional requirements 

  • If For-Hire, LTFRB electronic confirmation 

  • Original and one (1) photocopy of Certificate of Stock Reported (CSR) and Sales Invoice

  • Original Deed of Sale/Deed of Donation of engine if sourced from previously registered motor vehicles acquired from different persons or entities

  • Original Joint Affidavit of Change Engine by owner

  • Latest original Official Receipt (OR) of Motor Vehicle User Charge (MVUC) and other LTO fees payment

  • Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN)

How to File Application for Change Engine of Motor Vehicles

Changing your vehicle engine is a simple LTO process. Like other LTO transactions, it requires submission of the documentary requirements mentioned above. 

Here’s the step-by-step procedure on how to apply for a swap engine of your vehicle:

Step 1: Visit the LTO Office closest to you. 

Step 2: Secure a queue number at the LTO officer-in-charge and wait for your turn.

Step 3: Once your number is called, proceed to the transaction counters. 

Step 4: Submit all the required documents to the Evaluator for evaluation and computation of fees.

Step 5: Once the evaluation is completed, get the actual inspection of motor vehicles with duly accomplished Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR) done.

Step 6: Once the MVIR is ready, proceed to the queue for the cashier window and wait for your turn.

Step 7: Once your name is called, pay for the necessary fees and secure an Official Receipt (OR).

Step 8: Once done, proceed to the Releasing Counter.

Step 9: Present the OR to get the new Certificate of Registration (CR), plates, stickers, and other requested documents.

Step 10: Once you have received the CR and other relevant documents, signs in the CR log book.

Where to File Application for Change Engine

Filing for a change in color for your motor vehicle can be done in any LTO Office, district, or extension offices, whichever is more convenient.

Fees for LTO Engine Swap Transactions

The procedures for engine swap for motor vehicles in LTO will require applicants to pay the following:

  • A total of one hundred pesos (P100.00) for the color change fee.

  • Other LTO fees (MVUC, etc.)

Important Reminders

For your reference, here are some things you need to remember when applying for a change in color:

  • Note that all types of changes are subject to inspection as it needs to be checked for safety and to ensure that the change will not cause harm to yourself and to others.

  • That said, the procedure always comes with other fees. 

  • Changing the engine of a motor vehicle is an optional procedure. 

  • It can be done at any of the LTO offices in the Philippines.

  • Engine swapping is only possible if it is compatible with your vehicle in terms of the following:
    • Fuel choice (gas, diesel, electricity)

    • Cylinder layouts (straight, in-line, V, flat)

    • Cylinder configurations (twin cylinder, three cylinder, four cylinder)

Video: Guide on the Requirements for Changing Engines in LTO

You can learn more about the procedures on how to change engines in LTO by watching this video from Mivec Man Challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To help make your application for change in vehicle body design as painless as possible, we rounded up the most common questions and answers related to it.

1. Can I apply for the change in engine from any LTO branch office?

Yes. You may swap engines and have it registered at any LTO branch, provided that they offer the service. 

2. Is there a difference when filing for applications for change of engine between private and for hire vehicles?

Yes. There are differences in documentary requirements, but the procedures remain the same. The restrictions remain the same as well, in the sense that it is allowed so long as it doesn’t cause change in vehicle classification.

3. How much does it cost to get an engine swap done in the Philippines?

The price may vary depending on the type of engine—be it brand new, used, or donated from an old car—you require. There are other factors, including engine type, power, condition, fuel, and transmission that may cause a difference in the price for swapping engines.

4. Is LTO imposing a fee for changing the engine of my car?

Yes. The LTO collects a P100.00 charge for changing the engine of your car.

Summary

Engine swapping may not seem like a common practice, but if you are looking for cheaper alternatives to buying a car while looking to extend the lifespan of your car, then engine swapping is the best way to do so. Good thing, changing car engines is allowed by the LTO, and at a minimal price too. However, do note that there might be other LTO fees and a hefty price for the engine swap to worry about. 

How to Request for Re-Stamping of Chassis Number in LTO

Re-stamping of chassis number is a service offered by the Land Transportation Office (LTO). Though it is usually done on motor vehicles whose chassis numbers have been defaced, it isn’t something you can do on your own. Instead, you make a request for authorization from the LTO to have the procedures done at an LTO-accredited manufacturer or rebuilder.

Making such a service request means the motor vehicle owners are trying to seek authorization to have the chassis number re-stamped for vehicles of which the chassis number is unreadable due to corrosion or has been imported from a region which does not require the vehicle identification number (VIN) being stamped in the chassis/frame. It’s a simple process, too. All you need is to prepare the documentary requirements and get started with the procedures at your preferred LTO office. 

restamping chassis number in lto

What is Chassis Number Re-Stamping?

Chassis re-stamping refers to the process of stamping the chassis number of motor vehicles with defaced chassis numbers. It ensures that the chassis number, also known as the vehicle identification number (VIN) or frame number, is visible and readable. After all, the LTO, as the regulatory body, needs to confirm that the vehicle and its parts are the MV’s original components by matching it with the unique identifiers embedded in the VIN which also includes serial numbers. 

Other than being an identifier for original motor vehicle components, ensuring that the chassis number is visible is a particularly important item in the Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR). The stencil or macro-etching procedure for chassis numbers may no longer be mandatory for renewing MV registrations under the same owner but if you intend to sell, the new owner will need the chassis numbers to at least be visible and to match the one on record. As such, it is an important step that can’t be done just anywhere. It has to be at an LTO-accredited manufacturer or rebuilder and it requires authorization from the LTO itself.

Benefits of Chassis Number Re-stamping

Re-stamping of chassis number actually comes with certain benefits like:

  • Easier renewal of vehicle registration for second-hand car owners

  • Clear and visible VIN for easier MV verification

  • Visible chassis number for checking for apprehensions and alarm

  • Clean MVIR

  • Better chassis readability for when needed by verification of public authorities

Qualifications for Chassis Number Re-stamping

Requests for re-stamping of chassis numbers are usually made by the following:

  • Motor Vehicle Owners

Requirements for Chassis Number Re-stamping

When requesting for the re-stamping of chassis number in motor vehicles, applicants will need to prepare the following documentary requirements:

  • Original Certificate of Registration (CR)

  • Affidavit of Owner stating the reason/s or need for re-stamping

Other Documentary Requirements

  • Latest original Official Receipt (OR) of payment

  • Endorsement of District Office that issued the latest Certificate of Registration (CR)

  • Approval of the Regional Director

  • Result of laboratory examination from the Philippine National Police (PNP) Crime Laboratory

  • TMG recommendation

  • Affidavit of Mechanic who performed the re-stamping

  • Actual inspection of MV with duly accomplished MVIR (Motor Vehicle Inspection Report)

  • Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN)

Procedures for Chassis Number Re-stamping

To request for a re-stamping of the chassis number from the LTO, here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Visit your preferred LTO Regional Offices Operations Division or LTO District Offices near you.

Step 2: Proceed to the Customer Service Counter and have your documents checked for authenticity and completeness.

Step 3: Secure a Conductor’s License Application Form.

Step 4: Secure a queue number and wait for your turn.

Step 5: When your number is called, proceed to the transaction counters.

Step 6: Submit the application form for re-stamping with all your documentary requirements to the Evaluator.

Step 7: Wait for the CR to be confirmed and the endorsement to the concerned LTO District Office. 

  • If the issuing LTO DO is within the region, they will inspect and retrieve the record upon submission of requirements.

  • If the issuing LTO DO is elsewhere, then you will get an endorsement to the issuing DO for endorsement.

Step 8: Once the records are retrieved and verified, you will be issued an endorsement and instruction to go to the Philippine National Police – Traffic Management Group (PNP-TMG) for the Laboratory examination of the motor vehicle.

Step 9: Proceed to the PNP-TMG for the Laboratory Examination of the motor vehicle.

Step 10: After receiving the PNP/TMG Crime Laboratory Report, proceed to the transacting DO and submit it along with the other requirements for evaluation and approval of re-stamping request.

Step 11: Proceed to the LTO accredited manufacturer/ rebuilder to effect re-stamping of motor vehicles.

Step 12: Submit the stencils of the re-stamped engine/chassis and pay for the re-stamping fee. 

Step 13: Wait for the certificate of re-stamping to be released along with the official receipt (OR). 

Fees for Chassis Number Re-stamping

Requesting for chassis number re-stamping generally only entails paying the LTO the amount of P 90.00 for re-stamping purposes. However, it may require the payment of other LTO fees depending on the requirements you need to secure.

Where to Get it Done

Requesting for chassis number re-stamping can be done at any of the following LTO offices in the Philippines:

  • Regional Offices Operations Division 

  • District Offices

Important Reminders

If you are requesting for chassis number re-stamping, then you can keep these things in mind to make the transaction easier.

  • Chassis modification is something the LTO doesn’t usually allow except for certain circumstances. 

  • Re-stamping is usually done for a defaced chassis number. In cases of chassis modification, a request for changing chassis number is required. 

  • The car’s chassis, or frame, refers to the very foundation where every other component that the motor vehicle carries is built on. As such, it is an important part that needs strict monitoring, which is something that the LTO does.

  • Note that chassis re-stamping requires clearance from the PNP-TMG, so requests for such are subject to laboratory examination which checks for signs of tampering.

  • You may only request for chassis number re-stamping at LTO Regional Offices Operations Division or LTO District Offices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For your reference, here are some common questions and answers regarding re-stamping of chassis numbers in LTO.

1. Are engine numbers and chassis numbers the same?

No. Both the numbers are stamped in the motor vehicle to provide different identification of the car’s model and the engine number. While the Chassis Number or VIN provides details such as the manufacturing date, car model, engine type, fuel type, etc., the engine number is exclusive to the engine block.

2. Should engine and chassis numbers match?

Not necessarily. Engines have serial numbers specific to the production run of that engine. The VIN number has identifiers specific to the car frame and its components and will always be different from the engine number, except in certain cases. Aftermarket reman engines often have heat tabs on the freeze plugs while collector cars will always have the engine and chassis numbers matching.

3. Is the engine information included in the VIN?

Yes. The VIN number, or vehicle identification number, has information on the size of the engine. In the series of numbers and letters in the VIN, the tenth from the left denotes the model year and the eighth is the engine code.

4. Where can I find the chassis number and engine number?

Usually, the Engine Number of a motor vehicle is printed on the outer covering or engine casing of the vehicle’s engine. On the other hand, the car’s chassis number is usually found in the engine bay or beneath the plastic trim around the driver or passenger door opening. Both are used for identification purposes, but they are not the same. They are two different and unique numbers that are equally important identifiers of a motor vehicle.

5. Is it possible to change the VIN or chassis number?

No. VINs, or Vehicle Identification Numbers or chassis numbers, are like the fingerprints of a vehicle and are unique to every car despite similarities in the make and model. 

6. Can I punch the chassis number on my vehicle by myself, like when I get it repaired after being broken?

No. These things need to be declared with the LTO and only after an LTO authorization or approval can you get the chassis number stenciled and stamped. However, you can’t do it by yourself either, as it needs to be done by LTO-accredited manufacturers or rebuilders.

7. Where can I get more information about re-stamping chassis numbers? 

For more information, you may check with the LTO, via the LTO via the LTO Regional Offices Operations Division or LTO District Offices which handle approval of re-stamping chassis number requests.

Summary

Re-stamping of chassis number is a service offered by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) for those who own motor vehicles whose chassis numbers have been defaced. With this service, the agency ensures that the chassis numbers match the original document as registered and that no tampering has been done on it. As such, the motor vehicle is usually subjected to a laboratory examination and only after being cleared will it be approved for re-stamping at LTO-accredited manufacturers or rebuilder in the country. 

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