A variable valve timing controller includes an intake-valve and an exhaust-valve. When the engine is started, the intake-valve and the exhaust-valve are operated in a first mode in which the exhaust-valve is closed before top dead center and then the intake-valve is opened. When a first predetermined condition is met, the intake-valve and the exhaust-valve are operated in a second mode in which the opening time of the intake-valve in the first mode is advanced before top dead center.