Central Luzon
Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) Guide 2026
The Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) connects the Subic Bay Freeport Zone to Clark Freeport Zone and extends to Tarlac City. It branches off from NLEX at the Dau interchange and provides direct access to Clark International Airport, Subic Bay, and the TPLEX connection at Tarlac.
By Aditya AmanPublished Feb 7, 2026Editorial PolicyLives in the Philippines and has driven nearly every Luzon expressway with his family.
Quick Facts
- Operator
- NLEX Corporation
- MPTC subsidiary
- Length
- 93.77 km
- Lanes
- 2x2 lanes (4 lanes total)
- Speed Limit
- 100 km/h
- RFID System
- Easytrip
- Toll System
- Closed Toll System
- Year Opened
- 2008
- Status
- Operational
Major Exits & Destinations
Key exits along SCTEX and the areas they serve.
| Exit | Destinations |
|---|---|
| Tipo/Subic | Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Olongapo |
| Dinalupihan | Bataan, Dinalupihan town |
| Clark South | Clark International Airport Terminal |
| Clark North | Clark Freeport Zone, New Clark City |
| Bamban/New Clark City | New Clark City, Athletic Complex |
| Tarlac | Tarlac City, TPLEX to Baguio |
SCTEX Toll Rates 2026
View the complete toll fee matrix for Class 1, 2, and 3 vehicles on the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway.
View Toll MatrixExpressways are exempt from number coding
The SCTEX mainline is not covered by MMDA UVVRP. However, entry and exit points in Metro Manila follow local coding rules during rush hours. Check today's number coding
About SCTEX
The Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) represents a strategic infrastructure linking three of Luzon's most important economic zones: the Subic Bay Freeport, Clark Freeport and Special Economic Zone, and Tarlac City. Opened in 2008 after a decade of construction, this 93.77-kilometer four-lane expressway was built to world-class standards with grade-separated interchanges and modern safety features. SCTEX serves as both a vital cargo route for the container terminals at Subic Bay and a critical tourism corridor connecting Metro Manila to northern beach destinations and Baguio. The expressway's strategic importance was amplified when Clark International Airport became a secondary international gateway, with SCTEX providing the fastest land connection. Key sections include the mountainous terrain near Dinalupihan offering scenic views of the Zambales range, the flat agricultural plains around Concepcion, and the Hacienda Luisita section commemorating the historic sugar estate. SCTEX was designed with future expansion in mind, featuring wider right-of-way for potential additional lanes. The expressway connects to NLEX at Dau (forming the Manila-Subic-Clark-Tarlac route) and to TPLEX at its northern terminus, creating a continuous expressway network extending over 250 kilometers from Manila to La Union. Safety features include emergency bays every 500 meters, dedicated patrol vehicles, and comprehensive CCTV coverage.
Expressway Connections
SCTEX connects to the following expressways and major roads.
- NLEX at Dau/Mabalacat
- TPLEX at Tarlac
- Subic-Tipo Road at Tipo
SCTEX Toll Plazas
The Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway has 12 toll plazas serving as entry and exit points along the expressway.
- Tipo/Subic
- Dinalupihan
- Floridablanca
- Porac
- Clark South
- Mabalacat (Mabiga)
- Clark North
- Dolores
- Bamban/New Clark City
- Concepcion
- Hacienda Luisita
- Tarlac
Travel Tips for SCTEX
- Use Clark South exit for quickest access to Clark International Airport terminal
- SCTEX offers a scenic drive through Central Luzon with Mount Arayat visible from the expressway
- Fewer service stations than NLEX; fuel up at Clark or Tarlac plazas before long trips
- The Bamban exit provides access to New Clark City including the athletic stadium built for SEA Games
Peak Hours
Weekend mornings (8-11 AM) westbound to Subic; Sunday evenings (4-8 PM) eastbound returning to Manila
Emergency & Contact
SCTEX Infrastructure by the Numbers
- 80,349
- vehicles daily (Q3 2025)Source: Manila Times
- +2%
- year-over-year traffic growthSource: Manila Times
- 93.77 km
- connecting Subic, Clark, and TarlacSource: MPTC
SCTEX Live Traffic Update
See real-time traffic conditions, segment status, speed data, peak hours & route planner for SCTEX
EV charging near SCTEX
23 chargers nearby · 5 DC fast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SCTEX?
SCTEX stands for Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway, a 94 km tolled expressway operated by NLEX Corporation, running from Tipo/Subic to Tarlac. It takes Easytrip and opened in 2008.
Where is SCTEX?
SCTEX runs through Central Luzon, from Tipo/Subic to Tarlac, with 12 toll plazas along its 94 km. It connects to NLEX at Dau/Mabalacat, TPLEX at Tarlac, Subic-Tipo Road at Tipo.
How long is SCTEX in km?
SCTEX is 93.77 km long end to end, Tipo/Subic to Tarlac. At the 100 km/h limit the mainline takes about 56 minutes without stops.
How much is the SCTEX toll fee in 2026?
SCTEX toll fees depend on your entry and exit points. Use the toll calculator for the exact fare.
What RFID system does SCTEX use?
SCTEX uses the Easytrip RFID system. Make sure your Easytrip account is loaded with sufficient balance before entering the expressway. RFID stickers can be installed at SCTEX toll plazas or authorized installation sites.
What are the toll plazas on SCTEX?
SCTEX has 12 toll plazas: Tipo/Subic, Dinalupihan, Floridablanca, Porac, Clark South, Mabalacat (Mabiga), Clark North, Dolores, Bamban/New Clark City, Concepcion, Hacienda Luisita, Tarlac. Each plaza serves as an entry and/or exit point along the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway.
Can I use cash to pay on SCTEX?
Plan to pay by Easytrip RFID. Load at least the fare to your exit before you enter. Check your Easytrip balance before the trip.
What is the speed limit on SCTEX?
The speed limit on SCTEX is 100 km/h for Class 1 vehicles (cars, SUVs, vans). Class 2 and Class 3 vehicles have lower speed limits. Always observe posted signs as speed limits may vary at certain sections, especially near toll plazas, interchanges, and construction zones.
What are the peak hours on SCTEX?
Weekend mornings (8-11 AM) westbound to Subic; Sunday evenings (4-8 PM) eastbound returning to Manila. Consider traveling outside these hours to avoid congestion. Weekends and holidays may have different traffic patterns, especially during long weekends and the Holy Week travel season.
What is the emergency hotline for SCTEX?
For emergencies on SCTEX, call 911 or the NLEX Corporation hotline at 1-35000. For toll or account questions, contact (02) 8888-6359.
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