Registration and Licensing Requirements
- No motor vehicle may be operated on public highways unless registered and driven by a licensed operator.
- Government-owned vehicles are considered registered if marked properly and issued official number plates.
- Owners must register vehicles within seven days of possession and annually by the last working day of February.
- Applications for registration require extensive information about the vehicle and owner.
- Failure to renew registration timely results in penalty fees.
Registration Fees and Penalties
- Fees are calculated based on horsepower and gross weight, with differentiated rates for private and commercial vehicles.
- Pro-rated fees apply for late registration during the year.
- Exemptions and fee reductions are provided for tourists and vehicles in storage.
- Certificates of registration and number plates are issued upon registration; special stamps indicate vehicles registered "for storage only".
- Violations of registration and display of number plates incur fines.
Dealer and Garage Regulations
- Dealers may obtain general certificates and distinguishing plates for vehicles used in business, allowing simplified registration.
- Dealer plates may only be used for a limited time after a vehicle is sold.
- Proper records of vehicles leaving garages or for hire must be kept and are subject to inspection.
- Penalties apply for violations related to dealer and garage operational requirements.
Operator Licensing and Conduct
- Operators (chauffeurs) must apply for and pass examinations to obtain licenses, valid until the next February deadline.
- Licenses require photos and signatures and can be suspended or revoked for incompetence or unlawful conduct.
- Temporary learner’s permits are available but require accompaniment by licensed drivers.
- Operators must be at least sixteen years old.
- Government vehicle operators receive special licenses without fee.
- Operating without a valid license carries fines and possible imprisonment.
Vehicle Operation Rules and Safety Measures
- Operators cannot exceed registered passenger capacity or allow passengers on running boards except in specified cases.
- Vehicle capacity and safety parameters are set and enforced by the Director of Public Works.
- Vehicles can be inspected and registration suspended if deemed unsafe or damaging to public infrastructure.
- Weight and tire regulations limit the load and conditions under which vehicles may operate.
- Illegal operation beyond safety limits exposes operators to fines, imprisonment, and liability for damages or injuries.
Speed Regulations and Traffic Rules
- Maximum speed limits vary by vehicle weight and tire type, with specified lower limits for certain conditions.
- Reckless or improper speed exceeding these limits can lead to fines, imprisonment, and mandatory speed control devices.
- Rules for passing, right of way, horn use, and operation near pedestrians and animals are established to enhance safety.
- Sidewalk and pedestrian area operation is prohibited.
Lighting and Signaling Requirements
- Motor vehicles must have headlights and tail lamps that meet visibility standards during specified hours.
- Horns and signaling devices must be used properly to warn others, avoiding startling sounds except for emergency vehicles.
Violations, Penalties, and Enforcement
- Various fines are prescribed for violations of registration, licensing, operation, speed, safety, and signaling provisions.
- Repeat offenders may face license suspension up to two years.
- False representation or fraudulent use of licenses and certificates carries penalties including fines and imprisonment.
- Law enforcement and public safety officers are empowered to enforce the law.
- Provisions include requirements for reporting accidents and other incidents promptly.
Financial Provisions and Allocation
- All fees and fines collected fund road and bridge maintenance in proportion to population, road length, land area, vehicle count, and traffic importance.
- Fees are administered under regulations coordinated between Public Works and Revenue authorities.
Supersession and Applicability
- This Act supersedes prior motor vehicle laws and local ordinances conflicting with its provisions.
- Registration certificates and operator licenses are valid throughout all provinces, cities, and municipalities.
- Local authorities cannot impose additional fees or restrictions beyond those in this Act, except for certain tolls or parking regulations.
Administrative Provisions
- The Director of Public Works is empowered to designate deputies and agents to administer the Act.
- Procedures for record-keeping, public notices, inspections, and appeals are established.
- The Act authorizes recruitment of necessary personnel and the acquisition of equipment for enforcement.
Effective Date and Transition
- The Act takes effect upon approval and regulates motor vehicle registration and licensing from 1922 onward.
- Transitional provisions allow credit for prior fees paid under previous laws but no refunds.
The Act comprehensively regulates motor vehicle registration, operation, licensing, safety, traffic management, and penalties in the Philippine Islands to ensure public safety and efficient operation of transportation infrastructure.