In the Philippines, tollways categorize vehicles into three distinct classes: Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3. Each class is determined based on vehicle height, axle count, and whether a trailer is attached. Understanding these classifications is crucial for ensuring accurate toll payments and avoiding unexpected charges.
Knowing your vehicle’s class helps in budgeting for toll expenses, which is vital for both personal and business travel. For businesses, accurate classification is essential for cost management and operational efficiency. Failing to understand or correctly identify your vehicle’s class can lead to overcharges, delays at toll booths, and potential disputes.

Vehicle Classes for Tollways in the Philippines
Vehicle classes for tollways in the Philippines refer to the categorization system used to determine toll fees based on vehicle type, height, and axle configuration. This classification system ensures that toll charges are fair and proportionate to the impact each vehicle has on road infrastructure. It helps in managing road maintenance costs and provides a structured way to calculate toll fees for different vehicle types. The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) classifies the vehicles into these three main classes, each with specific criteria.

Class 1 Vehicles
Class 1 vehicles are the most common types of vehicles you’ll encounter on Philippine tollways. These include cars, jeepneys, pick-ups, SUVs, AUVs, vans, and motorcycles with engine displacements of not less than 400cc. To be classified under Class 1, the vehicle must have two axles and a height not exceeding 7 feet and 5 inches (2286 mm).
Understanding if your vehicle falls under Class 1 helps ensure you pay the correct toll fee. For personal drivers, this classification usually involves the lowest toll fees, making it essential for budget-conscious travel.
Examples
- Sedans, coupes, and hatchbacks
- Small SUVs and AUVs
- Vans like the Toyota Hiace (below 2286 mm in height)
- Motorcycles above 400cc
Special Considerations
Vehicles with roof carriers or loads such as bicycles, surfboards, or antennas that increase their height above 7 feet and 5 inches may be reclassified as Class 2.
Class 2 Vehicles
Class 2 vehicles are those that either exceed 7 feet and 5 inches in height or have additional axles and trailers. This category includes light trucks and buses with two axles, and any Class 1 vehicle that is pulling a trailer.
For businesses that use light trucks and buses, understanding the Class 2 designation is crucial as toll fees are significantly higher. Proper classification helps in budgeting and managing travel costs effectively.
Examples
- Light trucks such as the Fuso Canter
- Buses
- SUVs and pickups with trailers attached
- Vans exceeding 2286 mm in height, like the Foton Toano or Hyundai H350
Special Considerations
Even if a vehicle typically falls under Class 1, attaching a trailer automatically reclassifies it as Class 2. Also, vehicles carrying commercial loads on the roof may be considered Class 2 regardless of their base height.
Class 3 Vehicles
Class 3 is designated for larger trucks that have three or more axles and exceed 7 feet and 5 inches in height. These vehicles are typically used for heavy-duty transportation and logistics.
Class 3 vehicles incur the highest toll fees due to their size and weight, which contribute more to road wear and maintenance costs. Businesses operating these vehicles need to factor in these fees to maintain profitability.
Examples
- Dump trucks
- 10-wheel wing-vans
- Tanker trucks
- Large trucks with trailers
Why Vehicle Classification Matters
Vehicle classification matters because it directly impacts the toll fees you pay when using tollways. Different classes reflect the size and weight of vehicles, which affect road wear and maintenance costs. Proper classification ensures fair toll charges, helps in budgeting for travel expenses, and avoids potential disputes or surprises at toll booths. Here are some important benefits of knowing your vehicle classification in tollways:
- Check Vehicle Height: Ensure your vehicle’s height is below 7 feet 5 inches to qualify for Class 1; exceeding this height may result in reclassification.
- Consider Trailers: Any Class 1 vehicle with a trailer automatically falls under Class 2, increasing your toll fees.
- Roof Load Impact: Roof carriers or accessories that raise your vehicle’s height above 7 feet 5 inches could lead to a Class 2 classification.
- Financial Impact: The classification of a vehicle directly affects the toll fees. For instance, a Class 2 vehicle pays nearly double the toll fees of a Class 1 vehicle. For Class 3 vehicles, the toll fees are even higher, reflecting the increased maintenance required for the wear they cause on roads.
- Operational Efficiency: Businesses that frequently use tollways must understand these classifications to optimize their logistics and budget effectively. Misclassification can lead to unexpected costs and operational inefficiencies.
- Road Maintenance: The toll fees collected based on vehicle classes are essential for the maintenance and expansion of tollways. Heavier vehicles cause more wear and tear, and higher toll fees for these vehicles ensure that the roads can be kept in good condition for all users.
When traveling through Philippine tollways, knowing your vehicle’s class is essential to avoid unexpected toll charges. Proper classification helps in budgeting and ensures a smooth travel experience.
Important Reminders
For your reference, here are some important things you need to remember regarding the vehicle classification in tollways:
- Ensure your vehicle’s height and axle count match the criteria for its class.
- A height exceeding 7 feet 5 inches or the addition of a trailer can change your classification.
- Roof carriers, large accessories, or commercial loads may affect your vehicle’s classification, potentially increasing the toll fee.
- Class 2 and Class 3 vehicles incur higher tolls than Class 1.
- Make sure you are aware of the toll rates applicable to your vehicle to avoid surprises.
- If your vehicle’s classification changes, make sure your RFID is updated to reflect the correct toll charges and avoid delays.
Video: Toll Gates Vehicle Class 1, 2, and 3
Understanding vehicle classification for tollways is crucial for smooth travel and accurate toll payments. Different classes impact the fees you’ll pay based on your vehicle’s size and type. This knowledge helps in budgeting and ensures you avoid unexpected costs at toll booths. To learn more about these things, you may check out this video from pinoyadventurista:
Summary
Understanding the different vehicle classes for tollways in the Philippines is essential for both private drivers and businesses. Knowing whether your vehicle falls under Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 helps in budgeting for toll fees and ensures compliance with regulations. This knowledge is particularly crucial for businesses that rely on tollways for their operations, as it can significantly impact their transportation costs. So, next time you approach a toll booth, you’ll know exactly which class your vehicle belongs to and why it matters.