Malacañang: MVIS no longer mandatory for vehicle registration

The Office of the President has confirmed that motorists renewing their vehicle’s registration will no longer be required to go through the Motor Vehicle Inspection System (MVIS). As the testing is no longer mandatory, it means that there will be no additional fees added to vehicle registration. The decision was made wherein the President had to balance the current situation of the nation that is still undergoing a pandemic.

While the system is no longer a requirement, Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Centers (PMVICs) can still operate. In a Zoom meeting with the media, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) made it clear that these inspection centers can still operate but at a loss and under inspection fee pricing. Motorists who are interested in finding out if their vehicles are roadworthy can still go for inspection. If the vehicle fails any tests the owner can have these issues fixed before undergoing free retestings and subsequently renewing their vehicle's registration. It is important to note that passing the emissions testing is still the key requirement needed in order for a motor vehicle owner to renew the registration of their car.

The new fees are a quarter of what was initially proposed making it easier for motorists to have their vehicle inspected if they still want to. The following are the new fees effective immediately according to the DOTr.

The new fees are as follows:

• P600 for Private Vehicles
• P500 for Motorcycles
• P300 for Public Utility Vehicles

It is important to note that there was no mention if the program would still continue or if it would be put on hold until better conditions are met. Given that there are already PMVICs up and running and that each center costs a hefty amount, these will still likely operate and will cater to motorists who want to be sure their vehicles are in top condition. To add to this PMVICs are also no longer allowed to charge for retesting for vehicles that fail the inspection process. The DOTr has also stated that errors and mistakes done by these centers during testing will be facing sanctions and even a suspension of operations if these continue to persist. 

Motorists who need to renew their vehicles can still undergo the MVIS, however, the requirement of going through emission testing is still a requirement for renewal. With pricing being close to that of the same for the emissions testing and through PMVICs, this should give motorists an incentive to still have their vehicles inspected before renewing their registration.