Specifications for Number Plates
- Number plates must adhere to design, color, and size specifications determined by the Director of Public Works.
- Arabic numerals on plates must be at least one decimeter in length and one centimeter thick.
- Number plates for motor vehicles with three wheels or fewer may have numerals at least five centimeters long and one centimeter thick.
Dealer Registration and General Certificates
- Dealers may apply for a general certificate and distinguishing number instead of registering vehicles individually.
- Such applications must be submitted before January 1 each year and contain information as required by the Director of Public Works.
- The Director may issue a general certificate in quadruplicate showing dealer details and general distinguishing marks.
- All dealer-owned vehicles for sale or operation, except private use vehicles, are considered registered under this general number.
- Dealers cannot operate vehicles for hire unless registered under regular provisions.
Regulation of Speed and Reckless Operation
- Operation of motor vehicles must be at a reasonable speed considering road and weather conditions, safety, and property protection.
- Speed limits producing prima facie evidence of violation include:
- Over 20 mph within cities or municipal poblacions.
- Over 15 mph near obstructed views, crossings, bridges, sharp turns, descents, curves, or when meeting opposite direction vehicles.
- Over 10 mph when passing stationary or stopping street railway cars on the passenger side.
- Unreasonable obstruction or impeding of travel by any person or operator is prohibited.
- Violations punishable by a fine ranging from 5 to 50 pesos, imprisonment up to six months, or both.
Operation of Vehicles Under Influence of Intoxicating Beverages
- Operators of vehicles for hire consuming alcohol while on duty or operating within one hour after drinking are penalized.
- Any operator driving under the influence on public highways faces penalties including fines from 50 to 250 pesos and/or imprisonment from 15 days up to six months.
Lighting Requirements for Motor Vehicles
- Motor vehicles with more than three wheels must have two front lamps lit from half an hour after sunset to half an hour before sunrise.
- Front lights must illuminate a person in dark clothing visibly for at least 100 feet ahead with white light.
- Additional lamps are permitted with specified conditions on lighting both lamps if two are used.
- Rear lighting includes a lamp projecting white light on the number plate visible from 60 feet and a red rear light.
- Lighting must also be used during unsafe atmospheric or weather conditions irrespective of the prescribed hours.
- Vehicles with fewer than four wheels must carry at least one front white light during designated hours.
- All other vehicles on highways during these hours must have visible front and rear lights, regardless of motion.