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Tourists can drive in the Philippines on a valid foreign driver’s license for up to 90 days from arrival, as long as it’s in English or comes with an official translation. An International Driving Permit is useful but must be carried with your original license. Self-drive cars usually cost about ₱1,500–₱3,500 a day, a car with a driver about ₱2,500–₱5,000 a day, and scooters about ₱300–₱600 a day on islands like Siargao and Siquijor. Drivers must be at least about 21 for most rental companies, helmets are mandatory on motorbikes, and Metro Manila has number coding rules. For first-timers in big cities, hiring a car with a driver is often easier than driving yourself.
Renting a car or scooter? Make sure you’re covered and connected before you hit the road.
Can tourists drive in the Philippines?
| Your situation | What you need |
|---|---|
| First 90 days after arrival | Your valid foreign driver’s license, in English |
| License not in English | An official English translation (for example, from your embassy), or an International Driving Permit carried with your original license |
| Staying longer than 90 days | Convert your license to a Philippine driver’s license at the Land Transportation Office (LTO) |
| Riding a motorbike or scooter | A license that covers motorcycles, plus a standard helmet |
Rule summary based on the Land Transportation and Traffic Code (RA 4136) as explained by the Department of Foreign Affairs. Rental companies may have stricter rules, so always ask.
Car and motorbike rental prices (2026)
| Vehicle | Approx. daily rate | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Scooter (110–125cc) | About ₱300–₱600 | Islands like Siargao, Siquijor, Bohol, Camiguin and Batanes |
| Bigger motorbike | About ₱700–₱1,500 | Longer rides and mountain roads |
| Self-drive sedan or hatchback | About ₱1,500–₱2,500 | Couples and small groups |
| Self-drive SUV or MPV | About ₱2,500–₱3,500 | Families and rougher roads |
| Van with driver | About ₱3,500–₱6,000+ per day, plus fuel in some deals | Groups and day tours |
| Car with driver | About ₱2,500–₱5,000 per day | Cities and first-time visitors |
Rough 2026 ranges from rental listings and traveler reports; prices vary by city, season and rental length. Weekly rentals are usually cheaper per day. Fuel, tolls and parking are often extra.
How to rent a car or motorbike
- Choose self-drive or with a driver A driver handles traffic, parking and directions, and often costs only a little more in cities.
- Book with a reputable company International brands and established local companies operate at major airports, and online platforms let you compare prices. On islands, rent scooters from shops recommended by your hotel.
- Bring your documents Your passport, valid driver’s license (plus an IDP or translation if needed), and often a credit card or cash deposit.
- Inspect the vehicle Take photos and a video of every scratch, check the tires, lights, brakes and fuel level, and make sure the registration papers (OR/CR) are in the vehicle.
- Read the insurance terms Ask what’s covered, the excess (deductible), and whether you’re allowed to take the vehicle on ferries.
- Return it as agreed Usually with the same fuel level, on time, and with any traffic violation tickets settled.
Road rules you must know
- Drive on the right side of the road; the steering wheel is on the left.
- Helmets are mandatory for motorcycle riders and passengers under the Motorcycle Helmet Act (RA 10054). Choose a helmet that meets local standards.
- Seatbelts are required for drivers and front-seat passengers (RA 8750).
- Child car seats: children under 12 who are shorter than about 150 cm (4 feet 11 inches) must use a proper child restraint (RA 11229).
- No phone use while driving, including texting and calling without hands-free (RA 10913).
- No drunk driving (RA 10586); penalties are heavy.
- Number coding in Metro Manila: on weekdays, cars may not drive on certain roads during set hours on days matching the last digit of their plate. Ask your rental company which day applies to your car.
Where self-driving is easy, and where to get a driver
| Destination | Best option | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Metro Manila | Car with driver, Grab or taxis | Heavy traffic, number coding and confusing roads |
| Cebu | Driver in the city; self-drive for south Cebu road trips | Busy city, but scenic coastal roads to Moalboal and Oslob |
| Bohol | Self-drive car or scooter | Light traffic and easy loops to the Chocolate Hills |
| Siargao, Siquijor, Camiguin | Scooter | Quiet ring roads; scooters are the norm |
| Ilocos and Northern Luzon | Self-drive car | Good highways and great road-trip routes |
| Batanes | Tricycle, scooter or bicycle | Small islands, steep roads and strong winds |
Safety tips for driving in the Philippines
- Drive defensively. Expect jeepneys, tricycles and motorbikes to stop or turn suddenly.
- Avoid driving at night on unfamiliar provincial roads, which can be poorly lit, with animals and pedestrians.
- Download offline maps and get mobile data. See our best eSIM for the Philippines guide.
- Carry cash for fuel, tolls and parking in the provinces. See money in the Philippines.
- Check the weather. Heavy rain floods some roads quickly during the rainy season.
- Use ferries with RoRo service to take a rented car between islands, but check that your rental agreement allows it. See our ferry guide.
Add rental costs, fuel, ferries and hotels in our free Philippines trip budget calculator.
Car and motorbike rental in the Philippines: FAQ
Can I drive in the Philippines with a foreign license?
Yes, for up to 90 days from your arrival, as long as your license is valid and in English or comes with an official translation. After 90 days, you need to convert it to a Philippine license.
Do I need an International Driving Permit in the Philippines?
Not always, but it’s useful, especially if your license isn’t in English. An IDP is only valid together with your original license, and some rental companies may ask for one.
How much does it cost to rent a car in the Philippines?
Self-drive cars usually cost about ₱1,500 to ₱3,500 a day, depending on the car and location. A car with a driver costs about ₱2,500 to ₱5,000 a day. Fuel, tolls and parking are often extra.
How much is scooter rental in the Philippines?
Scooters usually rent for about ₱300 to ₱600 a day on islands like Siargao, Siquijor, Bohol and Camiguin, with discounts for weekly rentals.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in the Philippines?
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least about 21, and some charge extra or set higher minimums for young drivers. Check with the company before booking.
Is it safe to drive in the Philippines?
It can be, if you drive defensively and avoid unfamiliar roads at night. Traffic in Metro Manila and Cebu is heavy and unpredictable, so many visitors hire a car with a driver in cities and self-drive in quieter provinces.
Do I need a helmet on a scooter in the Philippines?
Yes. Helmets are mandatory for motorcycle and scooter riders and their passengers under the Motorcycle Helmet Act. Riding without one can mean a fine and less protection from insurance.
What is number coding in Manila?
Number coding limits which cars can use certain roads in Metro Manila on weekdays during set hours, based on the last digit of the plate number. Ask your rental company which day applies to your car.
Ready for the open road? Get covered, get connected, and budget your trip.
Cebu-born travel writer raised between Cebu and Dumaguete, now based in Zamboanga del Sur, Mindanao. Gio writes Best Philippines Travel Guide to help travelers get around the islands with confidence.