Brand new cars and motorcycles will soon enjoy a five-year registration validity, following the approval of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. of a Department of Transportation (DOTr) proposal aimed at easing transactions and reducing corruption risks at licensing offices.
The extended validity, from the current three years to five years, is expected to be implemented starting February 15, 2026, once the DOTr and Land Transportation Office (LTO) release the necessary department order and memorandum circular.
Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez said the policy is designed to make vehicle ownership more convenient while helping address long queues and the presence of fixers at LTO offices. The move also aligns with the longer warranties now offered by many vehicle manufacturers and dealers.
Only brand new vehicles and motorcycles will be covered by the five-year registration validity. After the initial period, owners will be required to renew registration annually beginning on the sixth year, as older vehicles are more prone to wear and tear and require closer monitoring.
As part of the safety measures, authorities will require roadworthiness checks starting on the fourth year to ensure vehicles on the road remain in good condition.
The policy is also expected to help address the problem of motorists failing to renew registration after the initial registration period, while improving overall compliance.
Lopez also appealed to car dealers and the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines (CAMPI) to continue offering free registration for brand new vehicles, noting that most dealers already provide this as part of sales packages to help motorists save on costs.
The reform is part of broader government efforts to improve public service delivery and reduce red tape in motor vehicle registration nationwide.
