The No Registration, No Travel Policy is a rule strictly enforced by the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
It requires all motor vehicles to have updated registration before traveling on public roads.
This policy applies to private car owners, motorcycle riders, truck drivers, and public utility vehicles (PUVs).
Even government-owned vehicles are included.
There is no extra fee to comply with the policy, aside from your regular vehicle registration renewal fees.
If your vehicle registration expires, you risk penalties, fines, and even impoundment.
The LTO began strictly enforcing this policy again in January 2024.
It’s part of their effort to ensure that only registered, roadworthy vehicles are on the streets.
Why the No Registration, No Travel Policy Matters
Keeping your vehicle registration updated is more than following a rule.
It’s about protecting yourself, your passengers, and other road users.
Many unregistered vehicles skip safety inspections, which can make them unsafe to drive.
The LTO reported that 65% of vehicles at the time the policy has been adopted were unregistered.
That’s about 24.7 million motor vehicles.
Most of these are motorcycles, followed by cars, trucks, and buses.
When vehicles remain unregistered, the government loses billions of pesos in revenue.
These funds could go towards road maintenance, traffic management, and public safety initiatives.
By following this policy, you’re not only avoiding fines—you’re also contributing to safer and better-maintained roads.
Who Needs to Follow This Policy?
The No Registration, No Travel policy covers all motor vehicles.
It includes:
- Private vehicles (cars, motorcycles, trucks)
- Public utility vehicles (jeepneys, buses, taxis)
- Motorcycles with sidecars or attachments
- Government vehicles
- Trucks and cargo vans
If you own or drive any of these vehicles, you need to make sure your registration is up to date.
This rule applies whether you use your vehicle for personal trips or business deliveries.
There are no exemptions, unless your vehicle is not used on public roads.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failing to comply with this policy results in hefty penalties.
If you are caught driving an unregistered vehicle, here’s what you could face:
- A ₱10,000 fine for using an unregistered vehicle.
- Impoundment of your vehicle until you can provide proof of registration.
- Additional fees for storage and retrieval from the LTO impounding area.
- If you have a license plate but don’t attach it properly, you could be fined ₱5,000.
- Vehicles not registered for three years or more face higher penalties, plus additional documents and requirements for renewal.
These penalties are enforced immediately once you are caught.
There are no more warnings as of January 2024.
What Documents Do You Need to Register or Renew?
To stay compliant, you’ll need to prepare the following documents for your registration or renewal:
- Original sales invoice (for brand-new vehicles)
- Official Receipt (OR) and Certificate of Registration (CR)
- Latest insurance policy (Compulsory Third-Party Liability or CTPL insurance)
- Emission test results (must be from an accredited center)
- Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR)
- Valid ID of the vehicle owner
- Payment receipt for the renewal fee
- If applicable, a deed of sale (for second-hand vehicles)
Brand-new vehicles are often registered by the car dealer.
The first registration is typically valid for three years.
After that, you need to renew it every year.
Step-by-Step Guide to Vehicle Registration and Renewal
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Make sure you have complete and valid documents.
Check their expiration dates and accuracy.
Step 2: Visit an LTO Branch
Go to the nearest LTO office that handles vehicle registration.
Arrive early to avoid long lines.
Step 3: Vehicle Inspection
The LTO will conduct a physical inspection of your vehicle.
They’ll check the chassis number, engine number, and roadworthiness.
Step 4: Pay the Fees
After the inspection, pay your registration and renewal fees.
The amount depends on your vehicle type, weight, and classification.
Step 5: Receive Your OR/CR and Stickers
Once payment is done, you’ll receive your Official Receipt (OR), Certificate of Registration (CR), and new stickers.
Display the sticker on your windshield or license plate.
Always keep your OR/CR in your vehicle.
Costs Involved in Registration and Renewal
The fees vary based on vehicle type and size.
Here’s an estimate to help you plan:
- Registration Fee: ₱1,000 for private vehicles
- Inspection Fee: ₱90
- CTPL Insurance: ₱500 to ₱1,000
- Emission Test: ₱500
- Additional Penalties: Depends on late registration (usually ₱200 per month delay)
Note: Fees may change based on LTO updates, so check their website or visit their offices for the latest fee structure.
How This Policy Promotes Safer Roads
Unregistered vehicles often skip regular maintenance and safety checks.
By requiring yearly renewals, the LTO ensures vehicles on the road are safe.
This reduces the risk of accidents, mechanical failure, and traffic violations.
It also helps the government track stolen vehicles, enhancing security for all motorists.
What Happens If You Are Caught?
If you’re stopped by authorities and can’t show a valid OR/CR, expect the following:
- ₱10,000 fine
- Possible impoundment of your vehicle
- Additional legal issues if your vehicle is involved in a violation or accident
- Hassle of retrieving your vehicle from LTO custody
The process of reclaiming an impounded vehicle includes:
- Settling fines
- Presenting valid registration documents
- Paying for towing and storage fees
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I know when my registration expires?
Check the last digit of your license plate.
It corresponds to the month your registration is due.
For example, plate ending in 3 needs renewal in March.
2. Can I renew my registration online?
The LTO is rolling out online registration via the LTMS portal, but availability varies.
For now, most vehicle renewals still require an in-person visit for inspection and verification.
3. What if I rarely use my vehicle?
Even if your vehicle is rarely used, as long as it is on public roads, it must be registered.
If it stays on private property and is not operated, registration isn’t required—but you should clarify this with the LTO.
4. What if I lost my OR/CR?
Visit the LTO and apply for a duplicate copy.
You’ll need an affidavit of loss, valid ID, and pay a replacement fee.
You cannot drive without these documents.
Conclusion
With millions of delinquent vehicles on the road, strict enforcement of the No Registration, No Travel policy is necessary.
Avoid hassle, fines, and penalties by keeping your vehicle registration current.
It’s not just a legal requirement—it’s a safety measure that protects everyone on the road.
Register today and enjoy worry-free travels tomorrow.