Step-by-step guide to checking LTO violations and penalties online

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) in the Philippines plays a crucial role in enforcing road safety by issuing fines and penalties for traffic violations. Fines vary depending on the severity of the violation, ranging from minor offenses like failing to wear a seatbelt to grave infractions like driving under the influence. In our previous blogs, we've extensively covered these violations, penalties, and fines. Today, we’ll focus on the process of checking LTO violations online through the LTMS portal and the convenient methods available for settling fines.

Checking LTO violations & penalties online

With advancements in digital services, LTO has established an efficient platform called the Land Transport Management System (LTMS) Portal. This guide offers a comprehensive walkthrough for using the LTMS to monitor your traffic records from the comfort of your home, helping you avoid issues with license renewal, penalty payments, or potential suspension.

Why is it important to check LTO violations & penalties online?

Traffic violations in the Philippines are taken seriously, with corresponding demerit points issued under the LTO demerit system. Accumulating many points can lead to penalties such as fines, license suspension, or even revocation. Checking your traffic violations regularly helps ensure you are informed of any pending penalties, allowing you to take the necessary actions to maintain a clean driving record.

By monitoring violations:

• You can avoid surprises when renewing your license, especially for the 10-year validity option.
• You prevent the risk of license suspension due to excessive demerit points.
• You settle fines promptly, avoiding escalations or additional fees.

LTO Demerit System

The LTO implemented the demerit system to track traffic offenses based on their severity. Offenses are categorized into three types (Light, Less Grave, and Grave), each with its own set of demerit points:

Light Violations (1 demerit point)

Examples include:

• Failure to wear a seatbelt (first offense)
• Using mobile phones while driving (first offense)
• Driving with no license or OR/CR

Less Grave Violations (3 demerit points)

Examples include:

• Illegal parking
• Reckless driving (second offense)
• Allowing passengers on the roof of the vehicle

Grave Violations (5 demerit points)

Examples include:

• Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs
• Involvement in a crime while driving
  Driving without a valid driver’s license

Accumulating 10 demerit points could result in a mandatory reorientation course. With 40 points or more, your license could be revoked, banning you from applying for a new one for two years.

How to check LTO violations and penalties online

#1 Via the LTO Land Transport Management System (LTMS) Portal

The LTMS portal is a centralized platform for LTO services. Here’s a step-by-step guide to checking your violations

Step 1: Visit the LTMS website: https://portal.lto.gov.ph.

Step 2: Log in to the LTMS account using the registered email and password. In case you do not have an account, then get registered asap (instructions mentioned below)

Step 3: Once logged in, go to the dashboard and click on the “Violations” tab. This section displays all relevant information, including:

• Demerit points: Check how many points you’ve accumulated.
• Unsettled violations: See any outstanding penalties or violations.
• Violation history: Review past infractions.

Step 4: To settle violations, click on the penalty details, and proceed with payment.

How to register for the LTMS account?

If you don’t have an LTMS account, then to check the status of your violations and penalties online you first need to create an account to access the service.

First-time user of the LTMS portal needs to follow the below-mentioned steps -
Step 1: Visit the LTMS Portal and click "Register Now”

Step 2: Accept the ‘Terms and Conditions’, then input the security code displayed

Step 3: Choose the registration type (individual or organization). Select “Yes” to confirm you have a Philippine driver’s license

Step 4: Provide personal details such as your driver’s license number, license expiry date, and OR (Official Receipt) number. You’ll also be asked for contact information like email and mobile number.

Step 5: Confirm registration via a verification link sent to your email.

Step 6: Once verified, log in using the credentials provided to you. You’ll receive a 15-digit Client ID to use for future logins.

#2 Via the MMDA No Contact Apprehension Program (NCAP)

Although the No Contact Apprehension Program (NCAP) has been temporarily suspended, you can still check for past violations caught by MMDA traffic cameras. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit www.mayhuliba.com

Step 2: Enter your vehicle's plate number to check for any outstanding MMDA violations

This tool helps drivers track whether they have been penalized for violations such as speeding or disregarding traffic signs, especially in major cities like Quezon City or Manila.

How to check LTO violations and penalties offline

In case you prefer in-person transactions, go visit the nearest LTO office to inquire about the traffic violation status.

Step 1: Prepare your driver’s license and a valid ID.

Step 2: Head to the nearest LTO branch and proceed to the Violations Inquiry section.

Step 3: Present your identification to the officer, who will pull up your records in the LTO database.

Step 4: If you have any violations, the officer will provide you with a printout listing the offense details, including the date, location, and fine.

Step 5: Settle any outstanding fines directly at the LTO or through authorized payment centers.

How to handle unsettled violations & penalties

If you have accumulated violations and penalties through LTO, resolving them promptly is crucial to avoid additional consequences like license suspension or vehicle impoundment. Here’s how you can manage unsettled violations:

#1 Online payment via LTMS Portal

After identifying a violation using the LTMS Portal, the user can settle fines online. Available payment methods include:

• Landbank LinkBiz Portal: A dedicated payment gateway for government services, including LTO fines.
• GCash or PayMaya: Popular mobile wallets in the Philippines that offer convenient ways to pay LTO penalties.
• Bayad Center: This payment center is accessible both online and through physical branches, making it a flexible option for settling LTO-related fines.

Note: Make sure you keep a copy of your transaction receipt after the payment to use it as proof when renewing your driver’s license or vehicle registration.

#2 In-person payment

If online payment isn’t possible or you need clarification on the violations, you can visit an LTO branch or an accredited LTO payment center to settle the fines. Here’s what to do:

• First, visit the nearest LTO branch or an authorized payment center
• Second, provide your violation ticket and driver’s license information
• Lastly, settle the fine and ask for a receipt, which will serve as proof of payment

Consequences of unresolved violations & penalties

When traffic violations go unresolved, or when too many demerit points are accumulated, the driver can face severe consequences, including license suspension or even revocation. Let us have a closer look at these consequences.

License suspension

• 10-39 demerit points within two years will result in a temporary license suspension. The suspension duration depends on the number of points accumulated and the severity of the violations.
• During the suspension period, drivers are not allowed to drive, and must undergo a reorientation course to refresh their understanding of traffic rules.
• After completing the course and suspension period, drivers can apply to reinstate their driving privileges.

License revocation

• 40 demerit points or more will result in revocation of the license, effectively disqualifying the driver from driving for a minimum of two years.
• After this period, the driver can apply for a new license, but only after completing a comprehensive driving course and passing both written and practical exams.
• For drivers involved in severe offenses while operating a vehicle, the LTO may revoke your license permanently.

How to avoid traffic violations

Prevention is always better than facing fines or penalties. Here are some tips to help you avoid traffic violations:

• Follow traffic rules: Stay updated on the latest traffic regulations, including speed limits, road signs, and parking restrictions.
• Avoid distracted driving: Refrain from using your mobile phone or engaging in other distracting activities while driving.
• Ensure vehicle compliance: Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained, and all required documents (e.g., driver’s license, OR/CR) are up to date.
• Wear your seatbelt: Always fasten your seatbelt and ensure that passengers do the same.
• Be mindful of road conditions: Drive carefully, especially in bad weather or congested traffic, to avoid accidents and fines.

By being proactive and conscious of traffic laws, you can maintain a clean record and avoid costly penalties.

Bottom line

Staying updated with your LTO violations and penalties is essential to maintaining a good driving record and avoiding penalties like license suspension or revocation. With the LTMS portal, checking and settling violations is now easier than ever, ensuring compliance with traffic regulations. Regular checks can help you renew your license smoothly and avoid further fines.

Also Read: The complete breakdown of LTO Fees: Registration, licensing, and penalties in the Philippines