Tarlac Expressway Guide 2026

In Tarlac, SCTEX connects to TPLEX at the La Paz interchange. SCTEX also connects to NLEX at Dau (Mabalacat, Pampanga). All three use Easytrip RFID, so one RFID works for the entire northern expressway network.

The toll from Balintawak (NLEX) through Dau to Tarlac (SCTEX) is approximately ₱670 for Class 1 vehicles. This covers both the NLEX and SCTEX portions.

All expressways in and around Tarlac (NLEX, SCTEX, TPLEX) use Easytrip RFID. You only need one RFID system to travel anywhere in the northern expressway network.

For a sedan round trip from Manila to Tarlac, budget ₱800–₱1,100. For an SUV, budget ₱1,100–₱1,500. The expressway distance from Balintawak to Tarlac is approximately 115 km one way via NLEX-SCTEX. Add toll fees (approximately ₱670 each way) for total trip cost. Diesel vehicles save about 10% on fuel.

Leave Manila before 5 AM on weekdays to avoid Balintawak congestion and arrive in Tarlac by 7-8 AM. On weekends, departing before 7 AM gives a smooth drive. The SCTEX stretch (Dau to Tarlac) is rarely congested. If continuing to Baguio or Pangasinan via TPLEX, factor in the additional 1.5-2.5 hours from the La Paz interchange.

Yes. Many Manila-to-Baguio drivers stop in Tarlac City for fuel, food, and restroom breaks. The city has gas stations, fast food restaurants (Jollibee, McDonald's, Chowking), and convenience stores near the SCTEX exit. It is the last major city before the TPLEX stretch north. The La Paz interchange is where SCTEX transitions to TPLEX, so it is a natural stopping point.

Five Star Bus, Victory Liner, and Philippine Rabbit operate buses from Manila (Cubao and Pasay terminals) to Tarlac City. Fare is approximately ₱250-₱350 one way. Travel time is 2.5-3.5 hours depending on traffic. Buses typically take NLEX to Dau, then local roads to Tarlac, though some now use SCTEX.

In Tarlac City, try local specialties like Tarlac longganisa and suman. Popular stops include Max's Restaurant, Razon's of Guagua (famous halo-halo chain from Pampanga), and various fast food chains along the main road from the SCTEX exit. The Shell and Petron stations near the La Paz interchange have convenience stores for quick snacks and coffee.

The Aquino Center and Museum in Tarlac City is dedicated to Ninoy and Cory Aquino. Monasterio de Tarlac atop Mount Resurrection features a 30-foot Christ statue with panoramic views (free admission, moderate hike). Luisita Golf and Country Club is open to visitors. During the Tarlac-Pangasinan drive, the rice paddies and sugarcane fields along TPLEX offer scenic views, especially during planting season.