LTO Sets Deadline for 'No Plate, No Travel' Rule: Is Your Vehicle Ready?

If you're a new car owner or still driving with a temporary plate, it's time to pay attention. The Land Transportation Office (LTO) is stepping up its enforcement efforts with a new 'No Plate, No Travel' rule on tollways, set to be fully implemented by 31 Dec 2024. This means that vehicles without proper licence plates will no longer be allowed access to toll roads, marking a significant move towards stricter road safety and compliance measures.

Also read: Heads Up Travellers! New Toll Guidelines Deferred to October

What you need to know about the LTO's no plate, no travel rule

This enforcement comes after the LTO CALABARZON region announced its commitment to cracking down on vehicles that are either unregistered or using unauthorised plates. Under Joint Administrative Order No. 2014-01, tampering with or failing to properly display authorised licence plates will incur a penalty of ₱5,000. This includes the use of makeshift or unauthorised plates, or any devices that obstruct the visibility of official plates.

Initially, the LTO planned to enforce the ban on temporary and improvised plates starting 1 Sep 2024, particularly in the Central Visayas region. However, due to concerns raised by the public and government officials, the deadline was extended to 31 Dec 2024. This extension is designed to give vehicle owners ample time to install their official plates once they become available, without disrupting the flow of traffic or causing unnecessary penalties.

The LTO also released Circular No. VDM-2024-2721 in July, which outlines the requirements for temporary plates. Vehicles with improvised plates must have authorization, display the assigned number, and bear the label "Improvised Plate." These are valid only until the official plates are issued. There are specific guidelines for different types of vehicles: private vehicles need temporary plates with a white background and black lettering, electric and hybrid vehicles must have white plates with green lettering, and government vehicles require white plates with red alphanumeric characters.

Motorcycles purchased before 1 Jan 2023, are allowed to use temporary plates displaying their MV File Number until their official plates are issued. Additionally, vintage vehicles can use plates labelled "Vintage Vehicle" along with the model year, without requiring special authorization.

As part of its comprehensive enforcement strategy, LTO CALABARZON is also targeting other common traffic violations. These include speeding, illegal parking, and the improper use of sirens and blinkers. Moreover, the agency is conducting thorough inspections of public utility vehicles to ensure they meet the required safety standards.

Also read: RFID Fine Enforcement Begins August 31: How to Stay Penalty-Free

The LTO urges all motorists to comply with these updated regulations to avoid penalties and ensure a smoother and safer driving experience on tollways. With the upcoming deadline, now is the time for vehicle owners to take action and get their licence plates in order.

All image credit goes to LTO - National Capital Region | Official Website