MMDA Warns: Tampering or Covering License Plates Now Comes With a ₱5,000 Fine

If you’ve ever thought of putting tape, cloth, or any sort of cover over your license plate—think again. The MMDA has officially announced that anyone caught intentionally hiding or tampering with their plate number will now face a ₱5,000 fine.

Why Is This a Big Deal?

The No Contact Apprehension Program (NCAP) relies on CCTV cameras to catch traffic violators around Metro Manila. If your plate isn’t clearly visible, it becomes harder for authorities to identify and penalize violators. Some motorists have been trying to outsmart the system by covering their plates with tape, face masks, tinted covers, or even small accessories that block the view.

But the MMDA isn’t having it anymore.

What Happens If You’re Caught?

Simple—if you’re caught tampering with or hiding your license plate, you’ll be slapped with a ₱5,000 fine. Worse, your violation gets logged in the LTO database, which could affect your vehicle registration or license renewal in the future.

Tips to Stay Out of Trouble

• Always keep your plate clean and clearly visible.

• Don’t use tinted covers or anything that might obstruct it.

• Check your plate regularly to make sure it hasn’t become unreadable over time.

It’s a simple rule: if you’ve got nothing to hide, there’s no reason to cover your plate.