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What is DOTr? Department of Transportation Philippines

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is the executive government agency at the forefront of the Philippine transportation sector. It is the main department that oversees everything about the Philippine transportation system—from the development and maintenance to the expansion of safe, secure, and efficient transportation and communication infrastructures—enabling it as an effective instrument for national and economic recovery and progress.

Also Read: What is LTMS Portal? Land Transportation Management System

Formerly known as the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), DOTr came to life as a standalone department after breaking away from all the operative units dealing with communication in 2016 when the Republic Act No. 10844 was signed into law. Since then, it has been solely responsible for the Philippine transportation sector, overseeing the operations and policies of numerous attached agencies related to the country’s road, rail, water, communication and aviation systems. This article will tell you more about the department, along with its history and its role in the country’s development, as well as the programs and services it offers.

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dotr department of transportation philippines

What is DOTr?

DOTr stands for the Department of Transportation. It is one of the Philippines’ executive departments tasked with the management of transportation systems and infrastructures in the country. After breaking off all communication operative units by virtue of RA 10844, the former Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) split into two separate departments: the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

Following its establishment as DOTr, the agency became responsible solely for the creation and implementation of policies that are meant to ensure public safety and convenience on the road. It took over the task of building infrastructures and creating and implementing regulatory policies as well as enforcing traffic laws and regulations anywhere in the country.

History

The DOTr may not have been around for a long time, but it has a long and rich history behind it as one of the oldest agencies under the Philippine government

The DOTr was originally born as the Department of Public Welfare, which included the transportation and communications portfolio in January 1899, it soon became the Communicaciones y Obras Publicas (Communications and Public Works Department), grouping together Public Works, Transportation, and Communications under one single agency. By 1901, the Department of Commerce and Police was established to oversee the Philippine transportation and communications. Later in 1916, the Reorganization Act 2666 gave birth to the Department of Commerce and Communications (DOCC), effectively replacing the defunct Department of Commerce and Police and taking over its functions. By 1931, it became known as the Department of Public Works and Communications.

In 1944, under the Japanese occupation, the Department of Public Works and Communication became the Department of National Defense, Public Works, Communications and Labor. In 1945, it reverted back to being the Department of Public Works and Communications. It later became the Department of Public Works, Transportation and Communications (DPWTC) in 1951. It first became the Ministry of Public Works, Transportation and Communications (MPWTC) in 1978 before it split into the Ministry of Public Works and Highways (MPWH) and the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) in 1979.

As a standalone department, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) was created as a means to promote a reliable and coordinated transport system for easier implementation of transportation-related programs. The agency was tasked with the registration and control of all types of motor vehicles (MV) including its registration and licensing. It was also the main overseer of the bus leasing program established at the time, as well as the operations of the Philippine National Railways (PNR), the Metro Manila Transit Corporation (MMTC), and the Manila South Line of the PNR.

In 1987, the MOTC was reorganized and officially transformed into the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC). Following the reorganization, the agency started allowing new entrants to operate cellular phone and landline services, to get the dilapidated taxi cabs off the Philippine streets.

In 2016, the then-DOTC changed into the DOTr we know, following the split into the DOTr and the DICT. Not much has changed since then except that in 2017, DOTr transferred its main operations from Manila to Mabalacat, Pampanga.

logo of DOTr

DOTr Mission, Vision, and Core Values

As an agency, the DOTr has always worked towards one vision: To be a world-class organization that provides integrated transportation, connecting individuals, islands, families, and communities together with an ecologically-friendly and globally competitive transportation system. It is with this goal in mind that the DOTr strives to provide internationally-competitive transportation networks that are at par with international standards and are adaptable to changing road conditions.

In operating as an executive agency, the DOTr has always strived to operate while embodying the following core values:

Integrity
Honesty
Respect
Care
Value for customer satisfaction

DOTr Functions and Responsibilities

From the time it was created up until its conversion into the DOTr, the agency has always been in charge of ensuring the seamless operations of the Philippine transportation system. From the promotion and development of a reliable and coordinated transportation system to the planning, programming, and implementation of various programs and projects, the DOTr has been successfully carrying out its mandate to ensure safety and convenience on the road, regardless if it’s for the drivers, the passengers, or the pedestrian.

Other than these, some of the main functions and responsibilities of DOTr as an agency are as follows:

Serving as the primary policy, planning, programming, coordinating, implementing and administrative entity of the executive branch of the government regarding transportation
Promoting, developing, and regulating transportation and communications systems
Delivering fast, safe, efficient and reliable transportation and communications services
Planning, formulating, developing, and improving national transportation policies and programs
Regulating Industry and services related to transportation including toll gates, roads, and bridges
Infrastructure development, including building, maintaining, operating, managing, monitoring and controlling all public works projects related to transportation
Implementing traffic management strategies for public and private vehicles
International cooperation
Monitoring and enforcing traffic laws, such as speed limits and parking regulations Representing the Philippines in international transportation forums like the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO)

DOTr Sectoral and Attached Agencies

Some of the sectoral and attached agencies through which the DOTr routes and implements their projects include:

Sectoral Offices

Road Transport

Land Transportation Office (LTO) (http://www.lto.gov.ph/)

The LTO promotes the safety and comfort of the traveling public while regulating, collecting fees, and implementing laws with respect to motor vehicles.

Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) (http://www.ltfrb.gov.ph/)

The LTFRB was created with the goal of simplifying and keeping the standards of the land transportation industry franchising system to ensure that higher safety standards are observed for land travel.

Maritime Transport

Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) (http://www.coastguard.gov.ph/)

The PCG is an armed and uniformed service tasked with enforcing all applicable laws within the Philippine waters, including conducting maritime security operations, safeguarding of life and property at sea, and protecting the marine environment and resources.

Attached Agencies

Office for Transportation Security (OTS) (http://www.ots.gov.ph/)

The OTS is the single authority responsible for the security of all transportation systems in the country, including, but not limited to Civil Aviation, Sea Transport and Maritime Infrastructure, Land Transportation, and Rail System and Infrastructure.

Civil Aviation

Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) (http://www.caap.gov.ph/)

The CAAP is an independent regulatory body with quasi-judicial and quasi-legislative powers, giving it the responsibility of implementing policies and setting comprehensive, clear and impartial rules and regulations on civil aviation in order to ensure safe, economical, and efficient air travel.

Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) (http://www.miaa.gov.ph/)

The MIAA was created to provides safe, efficient, and reliable airport facilities as well as promote the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) as a center for international trade and tourism.

Clark International Airport Corporation (https://ciac.gov.ph/)

The CIAC was created to offer quality management of airport infrastructure and services to help realize Clark Airport’s vision to be the premier world-class airport of the Philippines offering competitive aviation services in the Asia Pacific Region.

Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) (http://www.cab.gov.ph/)

The CAB is tasked with regulating, promoting, and developing the economic aspects of civil aviation including leasing, purchasing, and selling of aircrafts as well as overseeing consolidations and mergers of domestic air carriers.

Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA) (http://www.mactan-cebuairport.com.ph/)

The MCIAA is in charge of operating and maintaining airport safety and security and implementing airport rules and regulations in Mactan International Airport—the premier gateway to Central Visayas.

Road Transport

Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) (https://trb.gov.ph/)

The TRB supervises and regulates the construction, operation, and maintenance of all toll facilities in the country, and is also responsible for the collection of toll fees.

Office of Transport Cooperatives (OTC)

The OTC, originally known as the Committee on Transport Cooperatives, was created to integrate the transport cooperatives program into the public transport and transit system and achieve economies of scale with respect to fuel consumption.

Philippine National Railways (PNR) (http://www.pnr.gov.ph/)

The PNR was created to provide a nationwide railway transportation system. At present, there are plans to create new lines connecting the rapidly developing areas in Central Luzon and the South Tagalog regions with Metro Manila.

Light Rail Transit Transit Authority (LRTA) (http://www.lrta.gov.ph/)

The LRTA was created in order to oversee the construction and operation of the Light Rail Transit project extending from Baclaran in Pasay City, to Monumento in Caloocan. Since then, the LRTA’s mandate has expanded to encompass other light rail projects in Metro-Manila.

Maritime Transport

Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) (http://www.ppa.com.ph/)

The PPA is the primary government agency concerned with the planning and development of the country’s seaports as well as the integration and coordination of all ports nationwide, except for those in Cebu.

Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) (http://www.marina.gov.ph/)

The MARINA oversees the promotion and development of the maritime industry while providing effective regulation of shipping enterprises. Since its establishment, it has taken on the task of issuing Certificates of Public Convenience (CPC), regulating the operations of domestic and overseas water carriers and vessels while addressing safety concerns and enforcing maritime law.

Cebu Ports Authority (CPA) (http://www.cpa.gov.ph/)

The CPA was created to administer all ports located in Cebu Province, effectively separating these ports from the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) system.

Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) (http://www.pmma.edu.ph/)

The PMMA, formerly known as the Philippine Nautical School, was created in hopes of producing efficient and well-trained merchant marine officers with skills that are at par with international standards. The PMMA graduates are also meant to spearhead Philippine efforts in international trade while training to serve as auxiliary naval officers during times of conflict.

Project Management Office

Metro Rail Transit (MRT) (http://www.dotcmrt3.gov.ph)

MRT3, designated as the Blue Line, is also called the EDSA MRT, or Metrostar Express. It was built and operated by the DOTC through a Build-Lease-Transfer contract with the privately owned Metro Rail Transit Corporation (MRTC). It has 13 stations on a 16.9 km rail system along Edsa from North Ave., Quezon City to Taft Ave., Pasay City.

DOTr Programs and Services

The following are programs and services offered and initiated by the DOTr:

Procurement

Public Bidding

Part of the responsibilities of DOTr is the public bidding for government projects. The agency is in-charge of providing information about these projects and managing and facilitating the bidding process. As part of its services, the department also provides a list of all upcoming public biddings, the opening and closing dates, project description, and contact information on the website at least one month before the opening date for the bidding so the interested bidders can prepare. They also handle the submission and evaluation of bids as well as the awarding of contracts to the winning bidder.

Alternative Methods of Procurement

The DOTr is also in-charge of the procurement of goods and services through alternative methods. These include negotiated procurements, direct contracting, and competitive tendering.

Blacklisting of Contractors

The department also blacklists contractors who have breached the terms of their contract, failed to complete work, caused delays, or are under investigation for corruption, prohibiting them from bidding for new contracts with the department for a specified period. The ban depends on the severity of the offense, with a maximum ban of five years.

Foreign-Assisted Projects

Public works that receive foreign funding are subjected to a competitive bidding process which is also managed by the DOTr.

Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Projects

The DOTr also handles PPP projects—or those public work projects financed by the private sector. These projects usually begin with an idea for the structure before the agency issues a request for proposal (RFP), which outlines the project’s required specifications and design parameters.

Ongoing projects

Some of the agency’s ongoing projects include:

Metro Manila Subway

The Metro Manila Subway, originally named Mega Manila Subway, is a project meant to build an underground rapid transit line initially in Metro Manila in the Philippines.

PNR North-South Commuter Railway

The North–South Commuter Railway is an ongoing commuter rail project managed by the DOTr. It was meant to build commuter rails from New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac to Calamba, Laguna. The North Line will also have a length of 106-kilometer, from Tutuban in Manila to New Clark City, and is expected to be completed by 2021 while the South Line will be reconstructed as an electrified standard-gauge full double-track line.

Video: DOTr Projects

In recent years, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has relentlessly worked towards the initiation and completion of numerous projects, in a bid to catch up to its Southeast Asian neighbors in terms of development.

Learn more about these projects by watching the video below:

https://fb.watch/iJgtCAN4XA/

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s a list of the common questions and answers regarding the Department of Transportation (DOTr):

1. What does DOTr do in the Philippines?

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is a Philippine government agency that focuses on the creation, development, operation, and maintenance of most transportation and communications infrastructure in the country.

2. Is the LTO under the DOTr?

Yes, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) is an agency of the Philippine government attached to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and is the agency responsible for all land transportation in the country.

3. What are the roles and functions of DOTr?

The DOTr is responsible for overseeing the creation, planning, and coordination of all transportation projects in the country. The agency also sets the regulatory standards for safety and operation for various modes of transportation.

4. Are DOTr and DOTC the same?

Yes and no. The DOTr used to be DOTC prior to 2016. It became somehow different when the DOTC split into two agencies: the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

5. What are the land transport agencies in the Philippines?

When it comes to land transport, the DOTr has the following attached agencies supporting it:

Land Transportation Office (LTO)
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA)
Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB)
Philippine National Police – Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG)
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)
Road Board

6. What is the difference between LTO and LTFRB?

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) oversees the registration, licensing, and regulation of private cars in the country, whereas the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is responsible for public vehicles. However, these two agencies have overlapping responsibilities when it comes to the issuance of professional licenses to drivers of public utility vehicles (PUVs).

7. What agencies of the government regulate land transportation in the Philippines?

The Department of Transportation is responsible for overseeing the regulation and development of land-, air-, rail-, and sea-based transportation systems in the country.

8. Is LRT owned by the government?

Yes. At present, the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) is in charge of the country’s premiere mass transit system. It provides reliable, efficient, and environment-friendly services to the people moving around in Metro Manila.

Summary

As the department responsible for the regulation and supervision of all modes of transportation, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) plays an important role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of the country’s transport system. This covers all vehicles on air, land, and sea. It also oversees the construction and maintenance of the country’s transportation infrastructure, implements policies, plans and projects, and provides safety standards, regulation, licensing and enforcement of transportation services and vehicles.

In addition, the DOTr oversees the operation, regulation, and management of airports, railways, shipping ports, and highways throughout the Philippines. It is led by the Secretary of Transportation, along with two (2) Undersecretaries and four (4) assistant secretaries. It has offices located in Metro Manila and in the regions outside the capital. The DOTr is also assisted by a number of agencies and offices, including the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Land Transportation Office (LTO), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), among others.

As an agency meant to help Filipinos, the DOTr and its attached agencies offer programs and services that make traveling on public transport safe, reliable, and efficient. The agency also ensures that all road users, be it drivers, passengers, or pedestrians, are protected from accidents by strict regulation and enforcement of traffic laws.

Contact Information

In case you have any questions or concerns regarding their programs and services, please reach out to DOTr directly via the following:

Department of Transportation (DOTr)

Office Address: The Columbia Tower, Brgy. Wack-wack, Ortigas Avenue, 1555 Mandaluyong City, Philippines

Official Website: www.dotr.gov.ph

Trunkline: 8790-8300/8790-8400

Department of Transportation (DOTr) – CAR Office

Office Address: 2nd Flr. Post Office Bldg., Upper Session Road, Baguio City

Email Address: dotc_car@yahoo.com

Department of Transportation (DOTr) – CARAGA Office

Office Address: Capitol Avenue, Butuan City

Email Address: dotr13caraga@gmail.com

How to Register Motorcycle (MC) Vehicle in LTO Philippines

So, you got yourself a new motorcycle. If you got a brand new ride from an accredited importer or dealer, then you can just take advantage of the registration service that they offer along with the new motorcycle. It may take up to 6 months for the OR/CR to be released as it would depend on your dealership arrangements. Otherwise, you will need to take matters into your own hands and attend to the registration process at the Land Transportation Office (LTO) yourself if you wish to use your new motorcycle on public roads.

Also Read: How to Register Car in LTO and Get Certificate of Registration

If you are to register your new motorcycle by yourself, then you will need to understand exactly how registration, ownership transfers, and other legal matters work as part of your motorcycle ownership responsibilities. In order to help you do this, we’ve put together a guide with everything you’ll need to know, including the steps, requirements, and other things you need to do to register your motorcycle (MC) in the Philippines.

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how to register motorcycle in lto philippines

LTO Motorcycle (MC) Registration

Registering your motorcycle in LTO is a mandatory first step for every new motorcycle owner. Whether you do it via the accredited dealer or importer or by yourself, you will need to process an LTO registration to get an LTO Official Receipt and Certificate of Registration (OR/CR) before you can legally use your motorcycle on public roads anywhere in the country.

Also Read: LTO: Car Dealers Must Display Vehicle Registration Processing Time in Showrooms

As it stands, a motorcycle (MC) registration is necessary because it is an offense to drive a vehicle without an OR/CR. Unless you are ready to pay fines, get it impounded, or get in a legal battle you can’t win, we suggest you only ride your motorcycle with the purchase documents for a week if it is not registered. Otherwise, you should refrain from riding it out on public roads.

Motorcycle Registration Validity Period

When you purchase a new motorcycle with registered engine displacements of 201 cc and above, your initial registration will have a 3-year validity period. If your motorcycle has a registered engine displacement of 200cc and below, then you are limited to a 1-year registration validity.

You will then need to process a registration renewal before the first registration expires, and you can check on the registration expiration date from your number plate information.

Qualifications

According to the Land Transportation Office (LTO), the following can get any new motorcycle registered:

Accredited importers

Accredited dealers

Motor vehicle owners

Requirements for Initial Registration

Before starting with the motorcycle registration procedures, it is important to get the documentary requirements ready. Though you can just as easily obtain these documents near the LTO district office, it’s best to prepare them in advance and save even more time when you finally visit the LTO branch.

Here’s the list of requirements that you will need to prepare depending on the type of motorcycle that you are registering at LTO:

Brand New, Locally Assembled/manufactured Completely Built Units (CBU) / brand new local imported trailer vehicles

Original Sales Invoice

Original LTO copy or electronically-transmitted appropriate insurance Certificate of Cover (3rd party liability)

Original copy of Philippine National Police – Highway Patrol Group (PNP HPG) Motor Vehicle (MV) Clearance Certificate and Special Bank Receipt (SBR)

Original Certificate of Stock Reported (CSR)

Payment Reference Number (PRN), if payment was made through e-PAT

Additional Requirements for Specific Cases

For special registrations, LTO will require a few additional requirements due to legal policies or laws.

Here’s what you’ll need:

New motorcycles with sidecar

For brand-new motorcycle with a sidecar (TC), you’ll need:

Original Affidavit of Attachment for the sidecar, executed by both the owner and mechanic, stating the dates of completion

Used-Imported Motorcycles

Used-Imported Motorcycles are those which have been exempted from EO 156/877-A—a law which restricts the importation of used vehicles for use in the Philippines.

For the initial registration of used-imported motorcycles which are exempt from this law, you must produce the following documentary requirements:

One (1) photocopy of a commercial invoice/certificate of title with English translation authenticated by the Embassy

Original, duly-accomplished motor vehicle inspection report (MVIR) with a certificate of compliance to emissions standards in the Philippines

Requirements for Imported motor vehicles acquired through public bidding

One (1) Certified true copy of Official Receipt (OR) to prove payment of acquisition cost

One (1) Certified true copy of the Notice of Award

Note: For motorcycles acquired through this method, there are certain steps that must be followed in order to legally register the motorcycle in the Philippines.

How to Register Motorcycle (MC) Vehicle in LTO

Steps may differ depending on location but the general process remains the same. Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Visit the nearest LTO branch, regardless if it is a Regional, District, or Extension Office, as long as it comes with a new registration unit.

Step 2: Submit the required documents to the LTO Regional or District Office New Registration Unit.

Step 3: Proceed to the chosen LTO branches cashier, pay the fees, and wait for the OR to be issued.

Step 4: Present the OR at the next station in the LTO branches process.

Step 5: Wait for your OR again, together with the new CR, plates, and RFID sticker.

Note: If a motorcycle plate is not available at your preferred LTO branch, temporary plates may be provided at first.

Change of Ownership: Second-Hand Motorcycle Sale

If you are buying a pre-owned or second-hand motorcycle, then transferring the ownership of your second-hand motorcycle is one of the first things you should attend to though legally, the motorcycle can already be claimed as yours in full. Once done, there will be fewer questions asked when you present the documents proving your ownership at a checkpoint.

For motorcyclists who are looking to facilitate a change of ownership, they can follow the steps listed below.

Documentary Requirements

Here are the documents you will need:

MV Clearance Certificate from the PNP-HPG

Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR)

Latest OR and original CR

Notarized Deed of Sale

Proof of Insurance Coverage (CPTL)

Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)

Photocopy of two (2) valid, government-issued IDs of the original owner and the new owner with three (3) signatures of each person per photocopy

Brand new motorcycle with sidecar (TC)

Original Affidavit of Attachment for sidecar executed by the owner and mechanic stating among other the date of completion.

Registration Procedures

To get it registered, this is what you need to do:

Step 1: Bring all requirements to the appropriate LTO Regional, District, or Extension office.

Step 2: Have an LTO evaluation officer inspect the vehicle to verify the motorcycle details.

Step 3: Head to the cashier and pay the LTO fees for transfer of ownership.

Step 4: Once completed, wait for the official receipt (OR) and the release of your new ownership documents.

Step 5: Create photocopies of the new documents for safekeeping.

Renewal of Motorcycle Registration

Once the initial registration of your brand-new or second-hand motorcycle has expired, you will have to undergo the process of renewing the registration of your motorcycle to be able to continue using it on public roads. Renewal of motorcycle registration must be done once a year, unless you got the three-year registration, and the price of registration will vary for different motorcycle types.

When to renew your motorcycle

If you need to renew your motorcycle registration, you will need to look no further than your number plate. Motorcycles with plate numbers provided by the LTO will need to refer to the last digit of the plate number for the month of registration.

Plate numbers ending with 1 will have to register in January, plates ending with 2 must register in February, and so on.

The second to the last digit of the motorcycle plate determines the week of the month that your motorcycle need to be registered. Plates with second to the last digit numbers ending in 1, 2, and 3 must register before the 8th day of the month, 4, 5, and 6 before the 15th day of the month, 8 and 9 before the 22nd of the month, and 9 and 0 before the last day of the month.

Motorcycles with no plate numbers, on the other hand, will not be able to use the MV file number on the temporary plate as a basis for yearly registration. Instead, the owner will need to refer to the date of release from the dealership for the yearly registration. In case you can not remember this date, it would be best to visit the LTO branch where the motorcycle is registered for clarification.

If your motorcycle’s registration is expired, you will need to pay the late registration fines amounting to Php 100.00 for every week beyond the due registration date.

Important Reminders

When registering your motorcycle for the first time, here are a few things you need to remember:

Motorcycle (MC) vehicle registration may be renewed one (1) month before the due date for renewal, but not later than the last working day of the week indicated by the second to the last digit of the plate number.

Only official Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Center (PMVIC) inspection are accepted during renewals.

Though motorists can still use the emission testing report from a Private Emission Testing Center (PETC) when renewing the vehicle’s registration at an LTO branch, online renewal would only accept inspection done through a Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Center (PMVIC).

If your motorcycle’s record has not been uploaded on LTMS, then you cannot renew the registration online. LTO will require you to still renew your vehicle the old-fashioned way—by visiting and transacting with any of their regional, district, and extension offices.

If you lose the official receipt (OR) from the initial registration, you will need to obtain and submit an Affidavit of Loss instead of the OR.

While you will need to present your Certificate of Registration (CR) at the LTO branch, you should not submit the original copy as the photocopy of the CR is enough to meet the requirements for registration renewal.

Video: LTO Motorcycle Registration

To learn more about how to register your motorcycle at LTO, this video posted by Switch Shift Motovlog can help you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For your reference, here’s a list of the common questions and answers about initial motorcycle registrations in the Philippines.

1. Can I drive my motorcycle without registration in the Philippines?

No. The Land Transportation Office (LTO) strictly implements the “No Registration, No Travel Policy” so all motor vehicles, motorcycle or otherwise, that use public roads or highways must be registered with LTO Philippines before they can be driven legally.

2. Can I transfer my next registration to anothe LTO DO?

Yes. It is possible to transfer the registration of your motorcycle from the originating LTO DO to any LTO DO of your choice that is most convenient to you. You will simply need to pay an additional Php100.00 charge when you process a Change of Venue (CV) of your vehicle registration.

3. Is it possible to change the number plate on my motorcycle?

No. Like for any other motor vehicles, motorcycles also have number plates that last for a lifetime. A change of plate number is not allowed, thanks to Batas Pambansa Blg. 43: An Act Providing Number Plates to Owners of Motor Vehicles and Trailers, Amending for the Purpose Section Seventeen (17) of Republic Act 4136, specifically Section 1, Sec. 17, which states that the identification and letters of any motor vehicle number plate shall be permanently assigned to such motor vehicle during its lifetime.

There might be exceptions to this rule, though. But only if you will process a change in denomination (i.e. from a private vehicle to for-hire or government to private, etc.).

4. Is it possible to renew my MC registration online via the LTMS?

Yes, but this is not for all (at the moment). Motorcycle owners who find it hard to spend an entire day at an LTO office to process a motorcycle registration renewal may now do so online, via the LTO Land Transport Managament System (LTMS) if and only if their motorcycle records have been uploaded on the LTMS system. Otherwise, they will need to go the old-fashioned way and visit an LTO branch to transact with the LTO. Once there, an LTO personnel will upload the vehicle information on LTMS and you may be able to do the renewal via the LTMS in the following years.

According to LTO, using the LTMS during registration renewal will require the MC to go through a Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Center (PMVIC) as only PMVICs have access to the LTMS. If you went through the emission testing but through the Private Emission Testing Centers (PETCs), you will still need to do it via PMVIC as they need the center to send the MVIR electronically via the LTMS.

5. Is there a restriction when renewing motorcycle ownership via the LTMS portal?

Yes. There are quite a few conditions that need to be met to be eligible for online registration renewal of motorcycles. Unless the following conditions have been met, you will still need to visit an LTO branch.

Here’s a list of the conditions you need to satisfy so you can renew your motorcycle registration online:

It must be plain renewal only, with no additional transactions like change of denomination or change of venue

Motorists must have an existing LTMS account

MC for renewal must be linked to your LTMS account

The last renewal must be either through LTMS or your last LTO visit must have ensured tha your document were uploaded in the LTO system

Must be renewal processed by the MC’s current owner

Only Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Center (PMVIC) inspection is accepted

MC details must be updated on the LTMS portal

Insurance coverage must be electronically transmitted for validation

6. Why it is important to get your OR/CR quickly?

Thanks to LTO’s ” No Registration, No Travel” policy, MC owners can only drive their motorcycles on public roads without registration for at most seven (7) days from the date of purchase. Otherwise, it is illegal to drive it on public roads until you get it registered and has the LTO OR/CR to back up your registration claims. Without the LTO OR/CR, you can only park your motorcycle at home lest you get apprehended for illegal use and have fines and penalties imposed on you.

7. Why is an insurance is so important when driving a motorcycle?

If you are not insured and you get involved in an accident, then you are going to have to pay for the damages out of your own pocket. These types of expenses could easily translate to paying from a few thousand to a couple of millions, especially if you get into an accident and injured another person or damaged a property.

8. Why do some dealers take months to get and release the OR/CR?

This is something that you will need to ask from the dealers themselves as processing the registration via the LTO branches doesn’t really take such a long time unless you miss out on a couple of documentary requirements.

Summary

Registering your brand-new or second-hand motorcycle at LTO may not take much out of you, but it is kind of a big deal, especially if you wish to actually use the motorcycle instead of letting it accumulate layers of dust in your garage. It also doesn’t take much to do so.

Having said that, it is in your best interest to get the registration done and over with as soon as possible to enjoy the benefits and save yourself the trouble that an unregistered MC could bring.

Get LTO Duplicate Number Plate or Lost/Stolen/Damaged License Plate

Losing a license plate, whether by accident due to some loose bolts or intentionally by someone who fancies your number, is something that can happen to anyone, and it’s okay. However, driving a motor vehicle without a number plate or with an improvised plate without any authority from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) is punishable by law. Whether it was lost or stolen, failure to report that your number plate is no longer in your possession may end up badly for you, especially if your number plate gets involved in an accident or is used in the commission of a crime.

Also Read: How to Get Duplicate OR/CR from LTO

Having said that, it is necessary to request for a replacement immediately, as it will serve as legal documentation and proof that the plate is no longer in your possession. If, for whatever reason, you find yourself in need of help to replace a lost or stolen license plate, then keep reading.

Table of Contents

how to get duplicate plate number for lost damaged plate number lto

Getting a Replacement for Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Plates

Number plates are required fixtures for both public and private vehicles. Not only does it serve as a special identification of the motor vehicle (MV) unit, but it also helps the government trace and identify the vehicle owner easily. Plus, it is illegal to drive a vehicle in the Philippines without a registered and official license plate, so it is a must for MV owners to ensure that their vehicle’s plate numbers are always attached and have the necessary stickers.

Note: If you need to track the status delivery of your plate number or driver’s license, you can use the LTO tracker tool online.

What is a Duplicate Plate

A duplicate plate is an LTO license plate issued as a replacement for lost, stolen, damaged, or mutilated number plate. Note that this is the actual replacement officially issued by the LTO, and is different from temporary license plates.

Benefits of Getting a Duplicate Plate

Securing a duplicate plate in the Philippines can only mean enjoying the same exact benefits prior to the loss or damage of the number plate. These benefits include:

Having the option to drive the car on public roads.

Having a legal proof that the car is registered with the government and is roadworthy.

It is the ticket out of many legal problems, which can result from driving a car without license plates.

You have the complete requirements to renew your MV or MC registration.

You can sell your MV or MC easily as it comes with complete papers.

You won’t be at a disadvantage in case a dispute arise due to accident or traffic collision

Who can Get a Duplicate or Replacement Number Plate

A duplicate plate can be applied for and requested from LTO by anybody who owns a registered motor vehicle or motorcycle in the Philippines, in cases of loss, theft, or damage to the original.

Requirements for Getting a Duplicate License Plate

It is necessary to prepare the following documentary requirements before applying for a duplicate LTO license plate, in cases when your original copy is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Notarized Mutilation or Affidavit of Loss of the plate number

Clearance from PNP-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG)

Accomplished and Approved MVIR (Motor Vehicle Inspection Report)

Original and photocopy of the LTO CR (Certificate Registration)

Motor Vehicle User’s Charge (MVUC) and other fees OR (Official Receipt)

For for-hire vehicles only: LTFRB certification indicating that claimed lost plate number has not been surrendered

For company vehicles: DTI or company secretary’s certificate

Procedures for Getting a Duplicate Plate from the LTO

To acquire a duplicate plate for your registered vehicle from the LTO, you need to follow this three-part procedures:

Step 1: Get a Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR)

First, get your motor vehicle (MV) to undergo a run-of-the-mill inspection similar to the motor vehicle inspection required in registration renewal.

Acquire an MVIR which will help you enjoy a smoother and faster transaction.

To learn more about how it’s done, visit the LTO originating branch and follow the instructions listed in our previous article about MVIR.

Step 2: Get your Certificate of Registration (CR) and Official Receipt (OR).

Get your LTO OR/CR from wherever you hid it, make duplicate copies and prepare to bring both original and photocopies of the documents.

In cases of lost LTO OR/CR, you may visit the LTO originating branch and follow the instructions listed in our previous article about How to get Duplicate OR/CR from the LTO.

Step 3: Get a Notarized Affidavit of Mutilation or Affidavit of Loss.

Get a residence certificate (cedula) and proceed to the Notary Public to request for either a Notarized Affidavit of Mutilation or Affidavit of Loss.

Fill out the affidavit with your name, place of residence, and your license plate number and affix your signature and the date that it was signed.

Wait until it gets stamped with the filing information and released.

Step 4: Get a Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) clearance.

You will need to visit the head office or any of the issuing satellite branches of the Philippine National Police – Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG).

There, make a report regarding the lost, stolen or damaged plate number to let the authorities know that it is no longer in your possession and to get a replacement at the same time. Doing so will also help you stay away from trouble associated with unmarked vehicles, and will help the authorities rule you out of an investigation should your plate be used in the commission of a crime.

Step 5: Secure the rest of the documentary requirements depending on the vehicle ownership type.

For company-owned vehicles: Secure the Secretary’s certificate in case MV is in the name of a corporation or DTI certificate of registration in case of sole proprietorship to prove that the plate has been lost and not surrendered.

For public-utility vehicles: Go to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and secure a certification that says that the number plate has been lost and not surrendered.

Step 6: Secure an Authority to Use Temporary Plates.

Once you have the other documents with you, the documents you need to request for a duplicate plate are already complete, so you may already initiate the replacement procedures for your lost plate number, Starting with the authority to use temporary plates. Here are the steps:

Visit the LTO originating branch along with your documentary requirements.

Submit your documents at the designated evaluation window and wait for them to be evaluated.

Once the evaluation is complete, proceed to the computation of fees window and wait for the fees to be computed.

After which, proceed to the cashier and pay for the necessary fees.

Wait for the official receipt (OR) to be released.

With the official receipt (OR) at hand, go to the releasing window and wait for your turn.

Once your name is called, present the OR to receive the necessary documents you’ve requested.

You should also receive the Authorization to Use an Improvised Plate besides that.

Note: The Authorization to Use an Improvised Plate allows one to use temporary conduction plates with stickers, and is valid for up to three months or 90 days.

Step 7: Wait for the Duplicate Plate/Replacement Plate to be released.

After which, all you have to do is wait for the new plate number to be issued. The waiting period will be between one and three months, so just be patient and follow up when necessary. Do note that since you are using an improvised plate number, you should carry with you, at all times, the authorization to use such. If not, you might be penalized for not using a legal license plate.

Where to Get Duplicate Plates

To secure a replacement number plate in cases of loss, theft, mutilation, or damage, car owners will need to visit the LTO office where the vehicle was last registered to process a request for duplicate plates.

Cost of Getting a Duplicate Plate

If you are looking to get a duplicate plate in cases of loss or damage to the original one, you need to visit the LTO originating office and pay the corresponding fee for Duplicate/ Replacement of OR/CR which may vary depending on the type of vehicle:

Cost of plate (MV) – P450.00

Cost of plate (MC or TC) – P120.00

Cost of plate (trailer) – P225.00

Replacement plate (regular) – P450.00

Note that these fees do not include expenses for the other requirements like the MVIC inspection fee (MC or TC – P50, UV – P50, or Trucks or buses – P75), the MVUC, or the cost of having an Affidavit made.

Important Reminders

For those who are looking to request for a replacement for their lost, mutilated, or damaged OR/CR, here are some reminders worth remembering:

You will need to visit the originating LTO office within their operational hours.

You will need to prove that the number plate is mutilated, lost, stolen, or damaged and not just hidden.

You need to bring your LTO OR/CR with you at all times.

There is a lot of work involved with reporting a lost, stolen, or damaged plate, but because it’s a bit of a big deal to get you and your car’s identification in the clear, it’s best to get it done as soon as possible.

Insurance companies require the visibility of license plates in photos to ensure that the claims made by car owners are free from fraud.

If you are using an improvised plate number, you should carry the authorization to use one with you, at all times, or you might be penalized for not using an LTO-issued official license plate.

Video: Getting a Duplicate Plate from LTO

Offering duplicate plates in cases of loss, theft, mutilation, or damage to the original one is a service offered by almost all LTO branches nationwide. It’s a simple process, and you will see that it is so by watching Tongbits TV as he walks you through the process on how to get a duplicate plate for your motorcycle (MC) through this video:

For the dos and don’ts of using improvised or temporary plates properly, this video from Pare Nyo TV will teach you everything you need to know:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For your reference, here are some common questions and answers related to securing a duplicate number plate from the LTO:

1. How much do I need to spend to get a duplicate plate from LTO?

Depending on the type of vehicle, the actual fee for processing duplicate plates only ranges from P120.00 to P450.00. However, you must keep in mind that all the other requirements cost money too, like the MVIR, the MVUC, the Notarized Affidavit of Mutilation or Affidavit of Loss, as well as the PNP-HPG clearance.

2. What is an Originating District Office?

The originating District Office is the LTO branch or office where you originally registered or transacted with, which may be different from the last LTO office of transaction or the transacting LTO office.

3. Is a LES Clearance required when securing a duplicate plate from the LTO?

Yes. A LES Clearance or Law Enforcement Clearance is a required certification for for-hire motor vehicles and/or their authorized liaison officer/personnel. It is required only when securing duplicate motor vehicle license plate/s and windshield stickers/year tags.

4. Is a LES Clearance necessary for private and for-hire motor vehicles securing duplicate plates?

No. LES Clearance applies only to for-hire motor vehicles.

5. Can I request a duplicate plate from any LTO Office?

No. You will need to go to the originating LTO office where you first got your vehicle registered. You may, however, transfer to a different LTO office if you request a transfer of records, which essentially moves your entire LTO records history from the originating LTO office to your new preferred LTO office.

6. How long does it take to receive my replacement plate?

The waiting period usually lasts between one to three months, but you will need to follow-up on it occasionally.

Summary

Getting a duplicate license plate from LTO may seem like a bureaucratic nightmare, but in reality, this long, tedious process is a lot simpler than what you’ll need to go through when you end up incriminated in something bad due to your lost number plate. Plus, you will still need a visibly displayed number plate to be able to use your vehicle anyway, so you will need to process a request for a replacement just the same. To make it less painful, you can simply consider the process a two-in-one request for a plate and a reporting procedure. You simply need to prepare the money and set aside enough time to get the requirements ready before you proceed to the originating LTO Office and initiate the requesting process for a replacement plate in the Philippines.