The Motor Vehicle Inspection System, or MVIS, is a program that checks if your vehicle is safe and roadworthy before it gets registered.

It is required for private and public utility vehicles (PUVs and PUJs), commercial vehicles, motorcycles, and tricycles.

The goal is to make sure all vehicles on the road meet safety, environmental, and performance standards.

If your vehicle passes, you receive a Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR), which is often necessary to complete registration or renewal.

The inspection fee varies.

As of the latest guidelines, the base fee is ₱600 for private vehicles, ₱500 for motorcycles, and ₱300 for public utility vehicles.

For vehicles undergoing modifications (such as a “change body” or a change in engine), other fees may apply.

The MVIS program is managed by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and is carried out by Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Centers (PMVICs).

Not all LTO offices require MVIS for registration, but many do.

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Who Needs to Undergo MVIS?

If you are registering a new or used vehicle, or renewing registration, you may need to undergo the MVIS.

You will also need MVIS testing if you are requesting changes to your vehicle’s details, like a change body, engine replacement, or color revision.

Eligible vehicle types include:

Private cars
Public utility vehicles (PUJs, PUVs)
Commercial vehicles
Motorcycles and tricycles

You must ensure your Certificate of Registration (CR) and Official Receipt (OR) are updated.
The chassis number, engine number, and plate number must match your documents.

Why Is MVIS Important?

As vehicle owners, we all want our vehicles to be safe, not just for ourselves but for other people on the road.

MVIS helps catch problems early before they lead to accidents or costly repairs.

Here are the key benefits:

Road Safety
MVIS ensures your vehicle is in safe working condition.
It checks if your brakes, lights, and steering are working properly.
Environmental Protection
The emissions test confirms that your vehicle is not releasing too much pollution.
It supports cleaner air and better health for everyone.
Peace of Mind
Knowing your vehicle passed the MVIS gives you confidence that it’s reliable.
Better Resale Value
A well-maintained, MVIS-passed vehicle is often more attractive to buyers.

What Does the MVIS Cover?

The MVIS has two main types of inspections:
Above Carriage Inspection and Undercarriage Inspection.

Each part focuses on making sure your vehicle meets strict safety and performance standards.

Above Carriage Inspection

This includes checking the outside and inside of the vehicle.

Exterior
- Body panels must be aligned and secure.
- Headlights, brake lights, signal lights, and plate lights must work.
- The windshield and windows must be free from cracks.
- Side mirrors should be intact on both sides.
- Tires must not be older than 5 years and should be free from damage.
Interior
- Seatbelts should be functional and in good condition.
- The horn must work properly.
- The rearview mirror must be present.
- Seats must be securely attached.
- Early warning devices (EWD) should be present.

Undercarriage Inspection

Inspectors check the parts underneath your vehicle.

The chassis frame and number must match your documents.
There should be no oil leaks from the engine, transmission, or differential.
Steering linkages, ball joints, and shock absorbers should be secure and functional.
Brake lines, fuel hoses, and propeller shaft couplings must be free from damage or leaks.
The suspension system, including shackle pins, bushes, and stabilizer bars, is checked.

Tests Conducted During MVIS

Your vehicle will undergo several tests to check its roadworthiness.

Here are the major tests:

Sideslip Test
Checks if the wheels are properly aligned.
Suspension Test
Measures the effectiveness of shock absorbers.
Ensures the vehicle is balanced and stable.
Roller Brake Test
Tests the braking force of each wheel.
The parking brake is also checked.
Speedometer Test
Ensures your speedometer reading matches the vehicle’s actual speed.
Headlight Test
Measures the intensity and alignment of your headlights.
Emissions Test
Measures pollutants in your vehicle’s exhaust gases.
Diesel vehicles are checked for smoke opacity.
Gasoline vehicles are tested for carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons.
Sound Test
Measures noise levels from the exhaust.
Your vehicle must not exceed 99 decibels.

MVIS Fees: How Much Does It Cost?

Fees are important to understand before heading to an inspection center.

The standard fees are:

₱600 for private vehicles
₱500 for motorcycles
₱300 for public utility vehicles

If your vehicle undergoes modifications (like a change body, engine swap, or color change), a ₱1,800 fee applies for additional testing.

Re-inspections are free within a one-year period if your vehicle fails the first test.

Always clarify the fees with your chosen PMVIC before the inspection.

Where to Go for MVIS?

Not all inspection centers can conduct MVIS.
You need to go to a Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Center (PMVIC) authorized by the DOTr.

Check online or contact your LTO District Office for the nearest PMVIC location.

What Happens If My Vehicle Fails MVIS?

If your vehicle fails, you’ll get a failure report showing the parts that need fixing.

You must repair these issues and return for a re-inspection.

As long as you return within one year, you won’t need to pay for another inspection fee.

If the repairs take longer than a year, you’ll have to pay the full fee again.

MVIS and Vehicle Modifications (Change Body and More)

If you are applying for a change body, engine replacement, or changing your vehicle’s color, MVIS is part of the process.

The inspection ensures that modifications meet road safety and environmental standards.

For example:

Change body requires re-checking the vehicle’s weight, balance, and structural integrity.
An engine swap demands emissions testing and verification that the engine is correctly installed.

Additional fees may apply depending on the modification.
Confirm with your PMVIC to avoid delays.

Tips to Prepare for MVIS

Passing MVIS requires preparation.
Here are helpful tips:

Check your lights, horn, seatbelts, and mirrors.
Inspect tires for wear and replace if older than five years.
Ensure brakes and steering work properly.
Repair any fluid leaks.
Clean your vehicle and remove any unnecessary items that might affect weight measurements.
Bring your CR/OR, insurance papers, and valid ID.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is MVIS mandatory for vehicle registration?

MVIS is not mandatory in all cases.
It depends on your LTO office and the type of registration or modification you are processing.
For safety, always check with your district office.

2. How often should I undergo MVIS?

You usually undergo MVIS during registration or renewal.
If your vehicle has modifications (change body, engine replacement), MVIS is also required.

3. Can I choose any PMVIC?

Yes.
You can go to any PMVIC accredited by the DOTr, but it’s advisable to choose one near your residence or business address for convenience.

4. How long does the MVIS process take?

If your vehicle passes all tests, the inspection usually takes 1 to 2 hours.
Repairs and re-inspections can extend the time frame.

Conclusion

The Motor Vehicle Inspection System (MVIS) is part of our shared responsibility to keep roads safer.

It may feel like an extra step, but ensuring your vehicle is in top condition helps prevent accidents and costly breakdowns.

If you plan a change body, engine swap, or other modifications, the MVIS will be your first stop to make sure everything is up to standard.

Prepare your vehicle, schedule an appointment at your chosen PMVIC, and pass with peace of mind!

Motor Vehicle Inspection System – What You Need to Know