How to Settle Apprehension Cases in LTO

Apprehension cases in the Land Transportation Office (LTO) are one of the most unpleasant experiences that any driver, car owner, or operator in the Philippines probably hates. After all, many LTO apprehensions usually end up with having either your car or your driver’s license confiscated by enforcers, while the public looks on.

It’s easy to say that you should stay courteous and calm when faced with this kind of situation. However, this is still the best course, especially since any other reaction may result in more violations and even more hefty LTO fines. It’s also best to know your rights as well as what to do and how to settle your apprehension cases in LTO. 

how to settle apprehension cases

What is an LTO Apprehension Case

Apprehension cases refer to cases of driving and traffic violations tagged by the LTO. It comes in two different types: admitted and contested apprehensions. The former type presupposes the admission by the driver of his violation which warranted his apprehension whereas the second one is a contentious type where the apprehended drivers question the validity of his apprehension. This is a contentious type, which involves the process of sending summons to the driver and the traffic officer who made the apprehension.

Depending on the result of the re-evaluation of the case, usually in the form of a hearing especially for contested cases, all the traffic violations listed in the TOP and in the LTO-IT system known as the Land Transport Management System (LTMS) portal may be dropped or dismissed provided that the apprehended driver or operator can present sufficient proof to warrant its dismissal.

Admitted vs Contested Apprehensions

Admitted apprehensions refer to LTO apprehension where the apprehended driver or operator admits the violation/s cited in the Temporary Operator’s Permit (TOP). It also comes in two types: those which are settled by the violator within 15 days following the apprehension and those that weren’t settled beyond the 15-day period. There are also other cases of admitted apprehensions like those special cases involving settling admitted apprehensions in the absence of the traffic violators, having auto-contested apprehensions, apprehensions where the driver’s license or license plate is confiscated, and apprehensions with impounded motor vehicles. 

A contested case, on the other hand, refers to cases where the apprehended driver or operator makes his intention to oppose the violations indicated in the traffic ticket or TOP known. It is usually immediately acted upon with dispatch, with summons for both the apprehending officer and respondent or apprehended driver/operator. Note that when an apprehension or traffic violation is contested, both the apprehending officer as well as the apprehended driver are required to go through a re-evaluation where both sides present proof for clarification of the violation and evidence of claim to see if it does warrant a dismissal or if the violation cited in the TOP is justified.

Benefits of Settling LTO Apprehension Cases

The settlement of apprehension cases at the LTO is much like a procedure for making amends with the LTO after committing a violation. Sure, you’ll have to do it anyway, but somehow, settling apprehension cases offers certain benefits including the following:

Eligibility to Settle LTO Apprehension Cases

Sure, every driver, operator, and conductor has probably seen, experienced, or heard about how it’s like to be apprehended by the LTO. While not everyone will experience this situation, knowing how to settle them is a necessity for everyone. Nevertheless, the information on the process of settling apprehensions is most useful to the following people:

  • Apprehended drivers 
  • Apprehended operators
  • Apprehended conductors

Requirements for Settlement of LTO Apprehension Cases

You will need to prepare the following documentary requirements to settle your traffic apprehensions and retrieve whatever items were confiscated feom you.

General Requirements

  • Pink copy of the Temporary Operator’s Permit (TOP)/e-TOP receipt;
  • In case of loss of TOP/e-TOP: Affidavit of Los

Additional Requirements

Depending on the situation, apprehended drivers or operators may also need the following documents:

In the absence of the traffic violator

  • Authorization Letter or Special Power of Attorney; and 
  • One (1) photocopy of any government issued ID of the absent traffic violator

If auto-contested

  • One (1) copy of the Certificate of Registration and latest Official Receipt of the apprehended motor vehicle;
  • One (1) copy of the Driver’s License (for Driver’s License related violations);
  • One (1) copy of Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC)/Special Authority and franchise verification from LTFRB (for franchise related violation);
  • One (1) copy of Smoke Emission Test Result (for smoke belching violation); and/or
  • One (1) copy of Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR) (for violations requiring inspection).

If contested

  • One (1) original copy of the Affidavit of Protest/Contest and pieces of evidence

Procedures for Settling LTO Apprehension Cases

When settling apprehension cases with the LTO, here’s a complete guide to what you’re supposed to do:

Simple Admitted Apprehension

Step 1: Visit the designated LTO branch, be it the Cashier at the LTO Central Office, the Regional Offices-Operations Division, or the LTO District or any District or Extension Offices with Law Enforcement and Traffic Adjudication Service (LETAS) functions, closest to the applicant’s place.

Step 2: Check if they have LETAS functions and if they require an appointment or accept walk-in applicants.

  • If the LTO office requires an appointment, book an appointment online with LTO ahead of your visit. 

Step 3: Submit the TOP/IRMV (or Affidavit of Loss – in case of loss TOP/IRMV) and other required documents.  

Step 4: Secure a queue number and wait for your turn.

Step 5: Wait for your queue number to be called.

Step 6: Once your name is called, submit the requirements so it can be evaluated for completeness and authenticity.

Step 7: Once the LTO personnel confirms the details from the system, wait for a transaction ID to be generated.

Step 8: Once the transaction ID is generated, proceeds to the cashier for payment of fees.

Step 9: After making the payments, proceed to the Releasing Area with your official receipt (OR) and other documents to claim confiscated item/s. 

Step 10: Wait for your turn to collect the confiscated items.

Note: In cases of suspension, the drivers may return to the LTO once the suspension is served. 

Auto-contested Apprehension Cases

Step 1: Visit the designated LTO branch, be it the Traffic Adjudication Service in the LTO Central Office, the Regional Offices-Operations Division, or the LTO District or Extension Offices with Law Enforcement and Traffic Adjudication Service (LETAS) functions, closest to the applicant’s place.

Step 2: Check if they have LETAS functions and if they require an appointment or accept walk-in applicants.

  • If the LTO office requires an appointment, book an appointment online with LTO ahead of your visit. 

Step 3: Submit the TOP/IRMV (or Affidavit of Loss – in case of loss TOP/IRMV) and other required documents.  

Step 4: Wait for the LTO staff to assign a Hearing Officer. 

Step 5: Proceed to the Hearing officer for the approval/denial of resolution. 

Step 6: Once a decision is made and a printed copy is issued to you, proceed to the cashier for payment of fees.

Step 7: After making the payments, proceed to the Releasing Area with your official receipt (OR) and other documents to claim confiscated item/s. 

Step 8: Wait for your turn to collect the confiscated items.

Note: In cases of suspension, the drivers may return to the LTO once the suspension is served. 

Contested Apprehension Cases

For contested cases, you may refer to the procedures listed in this guide on how to settle contested cases.

Motion for Reconsideration 

To file for motion for reconsideration, drivers or operators may follow these procedures:

Step 1: Visit the designated LTO branch, be it the Traffic Adjudication Service in the LTO Central Office within five (5) days after receiving the Traffic Adjudication Service (TAS) resolution.

Step 2: Wait for the LTO staff to assign a Hearing Officer. 

Step 3 Proceed to the Hearing officer for the approval/denial of resolution. 

Step 6: Once a decision is made and a printed copy is issued to you, proceed to the cashier for payment of fines. 

  • In the event of affirmed and dismissed cases: proceed to the Releasing Unit.

Step 7: After making the payments, proceed to the Releasing Area with your official receipt (OR) and other documents to claim confiscated item/s. 

Step 8: Wait for your turn to collect the confiscated items.

Appeal on Decided Cases

Apprehended drivers and operators may also file an appeal to contest decided cases by following these steps:

Step 1: File at the office of the Assistant Secretary an appeal from the denial of Protest or of the Motion for Reconsideration within 10 days from receipt of notice. 

Step 2: Wait to be furnished with a copy of the resolution.

Step 3: Proceed to the evaluator, hearing, and approving officers for processing.

Step 4: Once a decision is made and a printed copy is issued to you, proceed to the cashier for payment of fines (for affirmed cases).

  • In the event of affirmed and dismissed cases: proceed to the Releasing Unit.

Step 5: After making the payments, proceed to the Releasing Area with your official receipt (OR) and other documents to claim confiscated item/s. 

Step 6: Wait for your turn to collect the confiscated items.

Cost of Settlement of Apprehension Cases in the LTO

When settling apprehensions in LTO, one must be ready to pay the LTO fees which includes:

  • Legal Research Fee – P 10.00
  • Other Fees may vary depending on the violation
  • For appeals on decided cases and for those who filed motion for reconsideration: If motion is denied and applicant decided to settle fines: P 77.63 
  • Computer Fee – P 67.63

Where to Settle Apprehension Cases

To settle admitted apprehensions in LTO, you may visit any of the following LTO Offices:

  • Cashier (Central Office)
  • Regional Offices – Operations Division
  • District/Extension Offices with LETAS functions

Important Reminders

For your reference, here are some tips and guides worth remembering: 

  • If the license is suspended, the client shall return to the agency after the lifting of suspension.
  • In case there is an accessory penalty imposed (e.g. attendance in seminars or examination), the driver also needs to submit a certificate of attendance of the said seminar/examination. 
  • Fines and penalties imposed in case of apprehension vary, depending on the gravity of the offense.
  • Traffic violators slapped with traffic tickets are entitled to contest his case within five (5) days after apprehension.
  • Appeals and motions for reconsideration for decided apprehension cases may also be filed at the LTO.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To help you settle your apprehension cases at the LTO, we rounded up some common questions and answer regarding the process here:

1. Is it necessary to attend seminars and training to settle an apprehension in the LTO? 

Yes. Those drivers whose offense include running or moving violations like illegal parking, reckless driving, disregarding traffic signs (DTS) are required by the law to further attend a seminar at their Seminar Room or Traffic Safety Division or Road Safety Training Seminar. A written examination will follow after the said seminar. Only those who passed the exam will be issued a certification, which will be presented upon claiming the confiscated item.

2. What is an IRMV?

IRMV refers to the Impounding Receipt of Motor Vehicles. The IRMV is accomplished by the apprehending officer and validated by the Motor Vehicle Custodian (MVC) assigned at the impounding area and is only issued if the motor vehicle was impounded.

3. Where will the apprehended operator/driver settle his case? Can he settle from any LTO Regional/District Office?

No. The place of settlement of apprehension is indicated in the middle portion of the TOP. Note that not all apprehended operator/driver is allowed to settle his case in any LTO Regional/District Office. If the apprehension happened within Metro Manila, he will need to appear at the LTO Traffic Adjudication Service (TAS), Central Office, East Avenue, Quezon City to settle his case. However, if he was apprehended in the jurisdiction of other LTO Regional/District Offices, he will appear at the concerned LTO Operations Division as specified in his TOP. In some cases, an apprehended operator/driver may be allowed to settle the case in any LTO Regional/District Office if his violation/s is included in the list of the “LETAS SETTLE ANYWHERE”. The Traffic Adjudication Service (TAS) / Operations Division may determine it through the LTO-IT system.

4. How does the apprehended operator/driver determine the amount of the fines/penalties as well as the accessory penalties of the violation/s indicated in the TOP?


Generally, the corresponding amount of the fines or penalties as well as the accessory penalties are determined by the Traffic Adjudication Service based on the violations specified in the TOP and through the LTO-IT system.

5. Can the confiscated items such as the driver’s license and/or motor vehicle plates be immediately released to the apprehended operator/driver after the payment of the fines/penalties?


Yes. The confiscated items may be immediately released after the payment of the corresponding fines/penalties provided that there are no accessory penalty/s and/or suspension indicated in the Resolution and/or Judgment. If the apprehended operator/driver is required to attend the seminar/exam before the release of the confiscated items, the accessory penalty is the seminar/exam. If there is suspension to be served, then the apprehended driver must serve the suspension first before they can return and retrieve the confiscated items.

6. When will a suspension of a confiscated item such as driver’s license and/or motor vehicle plates be lifted in order to be released?

The confiscated items shall only be released after serving the required suspension. 

7. How to claim confiscated items from the LTO?

The official receipt issued by the cashier along with the other pertinent documents necessary to prove the driver’s ownership of the item claimed should be presented to the releasing clerk. Before releasing the item confiscated, the officer in-charge should indicate in the log sheet the item/s to be released.

Summary

There are different ways and available remedies when settling apprehensions at the LTO. These options are in place to avoid arbitrariness of the traffic enforcers. However, while it pays to know the different options and recourse under the law, it is more prudent to follow simple traffic rules and regulations in order to avoid any kind of hassle while on the road. Plus, it helps you deal with apprehensions better, knowing that there are ways to settle, contest, ir even appeal such apprehensions. 

Contact Information

For more information or inquiries, you may reach out to:

Land Transportation Office (LTO)

LTMS portal: Visit the LTO’s official website and fill out their Contact Us form at https://portal.lto.gov.ph/ords/f?p=PUBLIC_PORTAL:CONTACT_US:115716301949471.

Phone call: You may contact them at their telephone number (632) 922-9061 to 66.

Email: You may also send them an email at clientcare@lto.gov.ph.

LTO Text Hotline Service: You may use LTO’s nationwide SMS service for drivers and vehicle owners by typing LTOHELP and sending it to 2600

LTO office: For information, you may check the LTO branch closest to you.

LTO Hotline: 8922-9061, 8922-9062, 8922-9063

LTO RSU: How to Request for System Updates (RSU)

Making requests for system updates (RSU) can also be made at the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in cases of double licenses or misrepresented age and identity. By definition, requests for system updates are different from the request for revision of records as this involves changes or series of changes that makes each license unique and identifiable to one specific person. 

As mentioned, requests for system updates involve requests that involve changes in the core information of an individual that may affect the legalities of whatever transaction they may engage in later on. Failure to make corrections to this information through a system update in LTO may cause problems and hefty fines for the licensee later on. 

lto rsu request for system update

What is RSU? 

RSU stands for Request for System Update (RSU). It is a service offered by the LTO to the transacting public. Through this service, Filipino drivers who have double licenses or licenses with incorrect personal details, misrepresented age, or misrepresented identity in the LTO system can get it fixed. 

Types of Request for System Update (RSU)

Some instances that call for requests for system updates (RSU) include the following: 

Request for System Updates (RSU) for double license

Request for System Updates (RSU) for double license refers to the LTO service that covers handling of cases of walk-in clients with double licenses. This applies to both instances where he/she has the same details but has two different license numbers or has two different customer details and license numbers.

It is further subdivided into two different types:

  • Double license with the same details but has two different license numbers

  • Double license with two different customer details and license numbers

Request for System Update (RSU) for license and customer details / misrepresentation of age / identity

On the other hand, the Request for System Update (RSU) for license and customer details / misrepresentation of age / identity refers to the process of revising/updating the customer details in the LTO-IT system. 

This RSU type is further broken down into the following types:

  • Misrepresentation of age

  • Misrepresentation of identity

  • Updating of customer details such as:
    • height

    • weight

    • gender

    • nationality

    • misspelled addresses

    • misspelled name

    • license details
      • license number

      • driver’s license (DL) or restriction code

      • type or license classification

Benefits

Setting your LTO records straight at all times is important because of the following reasons:

  • Having a clean and accurate record means having an updated LTO license

  • You can avoid legal repercussions when you leave the erroneous record as it is

  • You can skip on even more hefty fees when you leave the erroneous record as it is

  • It is easier to secure necessary documents from LTO when your LTO records are error-free

  • It is easier to secure necessary documents from LTO when your LTO records matches those of your other identification documents

Eligibility

As to who may avail of the LTO service and request for system updates, well, anybody who is an LTO Driver’s License (DL) holder or an LTO Conductor’s License (CL) holder and who intends to update his License Record in the LTO system is eligible to do so.

Requirements

When requesting for system updates, you will first need to prepare the following documentary requirements:

Request for System Updates (RSU) for double license

  • Duly accomplished Application for Permits and Licenses (APL) Form

  • Presentation of original and submission of one (1) photocopy of latest Driver’s/Conductor’s License

  • Previous Driver’s/Conductor’s License. If lost, submit Affidavit of loss

Request for System Update (RSU) for license and customer details / misrepresentation of age / identity

  • Duly accomplished Application for Permits and Licenses (APL) Form

  • Presentation of original and submission of one (1) photocopy of valid Driver’s/ Conductor’s License

  • Original Letter of Appeal for misrepresentation of age; letter of complaint for misrepresentation of identity

  • Presentation of original and submission of one (1) photocopy of Birth Certificate duly authenticated by Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) or Philippine Identification Card, any legal document as proof of correction the applicant is availing.

Procedures

If you are making a request for any of the following system updates in LTO, then you will need to follow these steps:

Request for System Updates (RSU) for double license

  • Double License – same name, birthday and customer details but with two different license numbers

Step 1: Visit your preferred LTO Office. You can choose from any of the following: 

  • Authorized Licensing Centers

  • Authorized LTO District Offices

  • LTO Extension Offices 

  • LTO License Section, Central Office 

Step 2: Proceed to the Customer Service Counter and present and/or submit the requirements for authenticity and completeness evaluation.

Step 3: Once the records of two license numbers are retrieved and verified, the Approving Officer will inform the licensee of the penalty and provide a signed Pay Order Slip (POS) for payment.

Step 4: Proceed to the cashier for payment of fees. 

Step 5: Once paid, the evaluator will prepare a Request for System Update (RSU) for deactivation/cancellation of the latest License Number issued and send it over to the License Section of the LTO Central Office for evaluation.

Step 6: After updating from the License Section at the LTO Central Office, any regular license transaction may follow.

  • Double License – one and the same licensee but with two different customer details and license numbers

Step 1: Visit your preferred LTO Office. You can choose from any of the following: 

  • Authorized Licensing Centers

  • Authorized LTO District Offices

  • LTO Extension Offices 

  • LTO License Section, Central Office 

Step 2: Proceed to the Customer Service Counter and have the evaluator check your documents for authenticity and completeness and to establish the correct identity of the licensee.

Step 3: If it is confirmed that the different customer details and license numbers belong to one person only, the LTO will confiscate the DL card and OR. 

Step 4: The Approving Officer at the LTO License Section will then prepare the endorsement letter to the LTO Intelligence and Investigation Division (IID) and request for tagging of the alarm to the Data Control Unit (DCU).

Step 5: It will then be forwarded to the Chief of the License Section at the LTO Central Office for a review of the endorsement letter and attached requirements.

Step 6: Once approved, it will be endorsed to the IID at the LTO Central Office (CO) for investigation to determine the liability of drivers and/or Motor vehicle owners / operators including initial processes before lifting of alarm.

Step 7: It will be assigned to an investigator who will prepare and send a show cause order.

Step 8: Once the order is received, the licensee will then be required to show up and submit a position paper for evaluation.

Step 9: You will be required to pay the fine amounting to P20,000.00 before it is filed in the LTO License Section at the Central Office and issued to you.

Step 10: Wait for the signed and approved copy of the resolution issued by the IID investigator and have it forwarded to the IT Service provider for implementation, if needed.

Request for System Update (RSU) for license and customer details / misrepresentation of age / identity

Step 1: Visit your preferred LTO Office. You can choose from any of the following: 

  • Authorized Licensing Centers

  • Authorized LTO District Offices

  • LTO Extension Offices 

  • LTO License Section, Central Office 

Step 2: Proceed to the LTO evaluator counter and have your documents checked for authenticity and completeness.

Step 3: Follow these steps depending on the update you wish to make:

For misrepresentation of age:

  • You will be informed of the options for system update so you will need to pick which option suits you better.
    • Option A: Payment of fine for underage licensee

    • Option B: Suspension of 1 year

  • Once you have picked your choice, you can proceed with the steps depending on which option you picked.

Option A

Step 4: Wait for the signed Pay Order Slip (POS) for payment.

Step 5: Proceed to the cashier for payment of fees. 

Step 6: Once paid, the evaluator will prepare a Request for System Update (RSU) for deactivation/cancellation of the latest License Number issued and send it over to the License Section of the LTO Central Office for evaluation.

Step 7: After updating from the License Section at the LTO Central Office, any regular license transaction may follow.

Option B

Step 4: Wait for the official notice of deactivation after the RSU for deactivation of the DL is approved.

Step 5: Serve the suspension. 

Step 6: Once the suspension has been served, the Licensee may re-apply for a new student-driver’s permit.

For updating of customer details such as height, weight, gender, nationality, misspelled addresses /name, license details: number, restriction code, type

Step 1: Visit your preferred LTO Office. You can choose from any of the following: 

  • Authorized Licensing Centers

  • Authorized LTO District Offices

  • LTO Extension Offices 

  • LTO License Section, Central Office 

Step 2: Proceed to the LTO evaluator counter and have your documents checked for authenticity and completeness.

Step 3: Once the RSU and the LTO records are retrieved and verified, it will be endorsed to the IID at the LTO Central Office (CO) for investigation to determine the liability of drivers and/or Motor vehicle owners / operators including initial processes before lifting of alarm.

Step 7: It will be assigned to an investigator who will prepare and send a show cause order.

Step 8: Once the order is received, the licensee will then be required to show up and submit a position paper for evaluation.

Step 9: You will be required to pay the fine amounting to P20,000.00 before it is filed in the LTO License Section at the Central Office and issued to you.

Step 10: Wait for the signed and approved copy of the resolution as well the implementation of the RSU.

Fees

When making an RSU, you will need to be prepared to pay for the following fees at the very least:

Double License

  • Penalty – P2,500.00

  • Fine – P20,000.00

For Misrepresentation of Age (Option A)

Where to Avail it

When making a request for system updates at LTO, you may visit any of the following LTO offices:

  • Authorized Licensing Centers

  • Authorized LTO District Offices

  • LTO Extension Offices 

  • LTO License Section, Central Office

Important Reminders

For your reference, here are some important reminders for when requesting for system updates in LTO:

  • In areas where there is no PSA (formerly NSO) branch, you may present the original and submit one (1) photocopy of the birth certificate validated by the Office of the Local Civil Registry (LCR) with the attached Official Receipt. 

  • NSO may also be accepted in place of a PSA Birth Certificate.

  • Some RSUs may require investigation and may take days before it can be resolved and the changes implemented.

Video: How to Request for an RSU

To learn more about how to make a request for system update (RSU) in LTO, you may check out this video from WDeeCee:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For more information, we listed the most common questions and answers regarding RSUs:

1. Is it okay for one person to have two different driver’s license numbers in the Philippines?

No. For this reason, the LTO allows the licensee to request for system update to cancel the latest issued license number. It is illegal to keep both, too, and you’ll end up paying for the fine or might even get your driver’s license revoked when found out. 

2. I got married after my driver’s license was issued. Do I need to request a system update to have my last name updated?

No. Instead of filing for a request for system update, what you need to do is request for revision of records at the LTO office. You may follow the instructions on how to change name under the LTO revision of records transactions to do so. 

3. Can I request for system updates at any LTO branch office? 

No. You may only request for system updates at the following LTO offices:

  • Authorized Licensing Centers

  • Authorized LTO District Offices

  • LTO Extension Offices 

  • LTO License Section, Central Office

Summary

It is easy to confuse LTO requests for system update with LTO revision of records requests. However, do note that for RSUs, it is highly likely that you may be accused of deliberate forgery or other offenses when the errors that require an RSU are not resolved immediately. RSUs aren’t free and may even be considered costly, but effecting changes to your LTO records via RSU may be much cheaper than waiting to be discovered by the authorities.

How to Apply Compulsory Third Party Liability (CTPL) Insurance?

In the Philippines, a Compulsory Third Party Liability (CTPL) insurance policy is a mandatory requirement for any motor vehicle to be registered with the Land Transportation Office (LTO). Regardless if it is for personal or commercial use, it generally comes with the policy and a  Confirmation of Cover (COC)—an LTO requirement that serves as proof of third-party insurance cover acquired prior to registration in a bid to protect the general public in cases of vehicular accidents.

Once the vehicle is appropriately covered with a CTPL policy, the attached COC can then be presented to the LTO. Note that the CTPL is different from the Comprehensive Car Insurance, and that this third-party insurance cover is mandated by the LTO for all vehicle registrations and registration renewals.

Compulsory Third Party Liability (CTPL) Insurance application

What is CTPL?

CTPL Insurance stands for Compulsory Third-Party Liability Insurance. It is a mandatory requirement of the Department of Transportation (DoTr) as carried out by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) meant to protect the general public in the event of vehicular accidents. It covers bodily injury and death for third parties, incurred as a result of the vehicle owner accidentally causing bodily injury or death arising from the use of the insured motor vehicle. It pays for expenses incurred by third parties as a result of the accident, but the coverage doesn’t include the driver nor the passengers of the insured vehicle. 

The CTPL only protects third parties which include anyone who is not a member of the insured’s family or employee and is not a passenger. It is basically a shield for the vehicle owner in case a potential third-party liability arises due to bodily injury and/or death caused by an accident involving the covered vehicle. 

CTPL vs Comprehensive Car Insurance

CTPL insurance is a mandatory requirement of the LTO in the Philippines. It offers coverage from liability only if you get into an accident that injures or kills a third party. Because it’s the basic and is the least expensive type of coverage, it doesn’t cover your own bodily injuries or vehicle damage. It only covers third-party liability, meaning it covers injuries or death of non-passengers.

Comprehensive car insurance, on the other hand, is not required by law. However, it offers wider coverage—not just for you but for your passengers as well. It is also customizable, allowing one to add add-ons as they please, to cover for their own damage, theft, passenger personal accident, acts of God, roadside assistance, and towing. It is also a more expensive type which covers a lot more, depending on the coverage you avail of and add-ons you want to include.

What is included in the CTPL

When a CTPL policy is purchased, the insured vehicle is given an insurance policy with conditions. It also comes with an attached Confirmation of Cover (COC). The COC is the document required by the LTO upon registration to prove that the motor vehicle has third-party insurance cover. Some of the details shown in the Certificate of Cover (COC) include:

  • the name of the assured

  • basic details of the vehicle such as
    • serial number

    • chassis number

    • plate number

    • color, 

  • the insurer’s limit of liability
    • schedule of benefits such as
      • death benefit

      • funeral expenses

      • permanent disablement and 

      • dismemberment 

    • limits for medical and hospital reimbursement 

A CTPL policy may be bought from any licensed insurance company. The premium rates are mandated by the Insurance Commission  and any deviation from the rate, be it higher or lower, should be reported to the Insurance Commission.

What is CTPL for?

The CTPL Insurance is a mandatory requirement for LTO registration and renewal of motor vehicles. It serves multiple purposes, too, including:

  • Offering protection to the general public in cases of accidents

  • Offering the assurance of an insurance policy in cases of accidents

  • Serving as proof that the motor vehicle has third-party insurance cover (to satisfy LTO requirements)

What is the CTPL Insurance Coverage Amount and Duration

The basic CTPL shields the vehicle owner from any potential third-party liability arising from bodily injury and/or death caused by an accident involving the covered vehicle. This coverage offers the following:

  • For PUVs
    • A total death benefit of ₱100,000 for the passenger-victim 

    • ₱100,000 for third-party victims. 

  • For a private vehicle
    • ₱100,000 insurance coverage is for third-party victims only. 

  • Under the ‘no fault’ clause, a third-party victim is entitled to a sum of max of ₱15,000 without proving negligence.

  • The maximum reimbursable fees of CTPL insurance is one hundred thousand pesos only (₱100,000) per year for third-party liability, subject to the schedule of indemnities

  • Annual coverage against liability for accidental death or bodily injury of third parties arising from motor vehicle accidents resulting from the fault/negligence of the assured or any authorized driver.

Who is Covered by CTPL?

The CTPL coverage also applies if the third party are as follows:

  • Friends and acquaintance passengers

  • Coworker passengers

General Exclusions

Some of the exclusions from the CTPL includes:

  • Any mishap that occurs outside the Philippines

  • While the vehicle is being utilized in a manner that is not in compliance with the vehicle’s restrictions.

  • When the car is being driven by someone who is not an authorized driver.

  • Flooding, typhoons, earthquakes, and other natural disasters, as well as the threat of conflict

  • Liability Assumed

  • Strikes, Riots and Civil Commotion

Who is Not Covered by the CTPL?

Aside from the regular exclusions, nobody, including the following may make a claim regardless of the amount of CTPL premium spent:

  • Family and close relatives

  • Employee passengers working for you

  • Passengers of public transportation

  • Passengers of service vehicles (delivery services, cable providers, etc.)

Validity

The CTPL coverage, like your motor vehicle registration, is only valid for a year, which is why it needs to be renewed every year. It is for this reason that the COC remains a requirement for renewal of motor vehicle registration every year as well. 

Fees

The price for CTPL is a bargain, as for these coverage, you only need to pay the following amounts:

  • For private automobiles, you’ll need to pay up to ₱1000.00.

  • For motorbikes, you’ll need to pay the actual value of ₱500.00 for a one-year policy. 

  • Private automobiles can pay ₱3,000.00 for three years of coverage.

  • Motorbikes can spend maximum reimbursable fees of ₱1000.00.

How and Where to Get CTPL Insurance in the Philippines

Before you even think of registering or renewing your motor vehicle registration at the LTO, you must first secure a CTPL by following the steps below:

Step 1: Prepare the CTPL insurance documentary requirements, including:

Step 2: Choose any of the LTO-accredited CTPL insurance providers and buy your CTPL policy from it.

Step 3: Upon purchase, you will receive the policy along with the conditions and a Certificate of Cover (COC). 

Step 4: Make duplicate copies of every document you receive and bring them to the LTO upon registration to prove that your vehicle or motorcycle has a CTPL insurance coverage.

Note: If you are buying a brand-new car, the dealership might offer free CTPL coverage for a certain period. If that’s the case, ask your agent if it’s bundled in your freebies package.

What are the licensed CTPL Insurance Companies in the Philippines?

Here’s a complete list of licensed Insurance Companies in the Philippines:

  • Pioneer Insurance & Surety Corporation

  • Malayan Insurance Company, Inc.

  • BPI/MS Insurance Corporation

  • AIG Phil. Ins. Company (Chartis Phils., Inc.)

  • Philippines’ First Insurance Co., Inc.

  • Cibeles Insurance Corporation

  • Charter Ping An (Phil Charter Ins. Corp)

  • Standard Insurance Company, Inc.

  • Alliedbankers Insurance Corporation

  • Starr International Insurance Phils., Branch

  • Mapfre Insular Insurance Corporation

  • Philam Life and Gen. Insurance Company

  • Prudential Guarantee and Assurance Inc.

  • Bankers Assce. (Malayan Zurich)

  • First Nationwide Assurance Corporation

  • BF General Insurance Company, Inc.

  • Blue Cross Insurance, Inc.

  • UCPB General Insurance Company, Inc.

  • Perla Companie de Seguros, Inc.

  • QBE Seabord Insurance Phils, Inc.

  • Stronghold Insurance Company, Inc.

  • Commonwealth Insurance Company

  • Pioneer Intercontinental Inc. Company

  • Asia Insurance Corp.

  • Insurance Company of North America

  • Pioneer Asia Insurance Corporation

  • Plaridel Surety & Insurance Company

  • Reliance Surety & Insurance Company

  • United Insurance Company, Inc.

  • Sterling Insurance Company

  • Corporate Guarantee and Insurance Company, Inc.

  • People’s General Insurance Corporation

  • Federal Phoenix Assurance Company, Inc.

  • MAA General Assurance Philippines, Inc.

  • Petrogen Insurance Corporation

  • Empire Insurance Company

  • Alpha Insurance and Surety Company, Inc.

  • Liberty Insurance Corporation

  • Centenial Guarantee Assurance Corporation

  • PGA Sompo Japan Insurance, Inc.

  • Manila Surety & Fidelity Company Inc.

  • Mercantile Insurance Company, Inc.

  • Philippine British Assurance Company, Inc.

  • Pacific Union Insurance Company

  • Monarch Insurance Company, Inc.

  • Paramount Life and Gen. Ins. Corp.

  • Investors Assurance Corporation

  • Western Guaranty Corporation

  • Visayan Surety & Insurance Corporation

  • Fortune General Insurance Corporation

  • Intra-Strata Assurance Corporation

  • New India Assurance Company, Ltd.

  • Country Bankers Insurance Corporation

  • AFP General Insurance Corporation

  • Great Domestic Insurance Company of the Philippines, Inc.

  • First Integrated Bonding & Insurance Co., Inc.

  • Premier Insurance and Surety Corporation

  • Republic Surety and Insurance Company, Inc.

  • Milestone Guaranty and Assurance Corporation

  • Security Pacific Assurance Corporation

  • Meridian Assurance Corporation

  • R&B Insurance Corporation

  • Asia United Insurance, Inc.

  • Far Eastern Surety & Insurance Company, Inc.

  • Solid Guaranty Inc.

  • Travellers Insurance & Surety Corporation

  • Metropolitan Insurance Company

  • Northwest Insurance & Surety Company, Inc.

  • FLT Prime Insurance Corporation

  • Philippine Fire and Marine Insurance Corp.

  • PNB General Insurers Company, Inc.

  • CLIMBS Life and General Inc.

Summary

Getting a CTPL Insurance for your motor vehicle may be required by the LTO, but it serves to protect the third parties from whatever deficiencies you may have as a driver. As such, it is important to ensure that your CTPL is taken from legitimate providers instead of the fly by night companies offering Compulsory Third Party Liability (CTPL) in LTO. Unsuspicious motorists may simply just buy a CTPL from a person or company to speed up the car registration process without ensuring its legal existence, resulting in more problems when you accidentally hit a person.

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