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How to Change Engine of Motor Vehicle in LTO

Changing the engine through “modification,” contrary to popular belief, is not prohibited, as long as it meets the standards of approved parameters. That means that modification of the engine or its basic components are allowed so long as it does not change the vehicle classification. Changing the engine in a way that affects its performance, so long as it does not compromise the road safety in any way, is not prohibited by the rules and regulations of the Land Transportation Office (LTO). 

Changing the engine of a vehicle, while not prohibited, still requires a Certificate of Road Safety from the manufacturer before it can be allowed. It is, however, subject to inspection by the LTO for possible reclassification. Aside from this, changing engines is allowed upon application for a permit to do so. 

change engine of vehicle in lto

LTO Vehicle Modifications: Change Engine

There are different types of car or vehicle modifications. However, for our purposes, we are only discussing the changes in engine for private and for-hire motor vehicles in the country. Just like other types of changes in motor vehicles though, a change in the engine of a motor vehicle inherently changes the factory original,  effectively customizing it to your needs and preferences. 

Changing a car engine is one of the more difficult modifications you can ever engage  in. It requires different approaches depending on whether the engine is new, rebuilt, or taken out of donor cars. Though the process of engine swap may vary depending on the make and model, most of the processes are fairly universal, so it is possible to check for a guideline of the procedures required.

Benefits of Changing the Engine of a Motor Vehicle

Being able to change your vehicle’s engine at will means enjoying the following benefits: 

  • You may upgrade your vehicle into one that suits your speed and performance preferences.
  • A change in vehicle engine may give the car a better resale value.
  • Depending on the type of engine source you choose, you may be able to enjoy a longer vehicle lifespan. 
  • You may be able to get a safer car, especially when swapping with a new motor as they usually have better performance.
  • It gives you freedom to decide how you want your car to perform.
  • You can save more money as engine swapping is cheaper than buying a new car.

Eligibility to Change the Engine of a Motor Vehicle

Just like when making any other type of modifications, changing the engine of a motor vehicle is allowed to anyone who owns a registered motor vehicle and who intends to swap engines for whatever reason. These changes are allowed by LTO, provided that those who are requesting for such change can present all the requirements and have the ability to pay all the relevant LTO fees.

LTO Requirements for Engine Swapping

Car modifications resulting in changes in the car engine may be allowed, but it has to be declared and permitted by the LTO. As such, engine swapping requires the car owners to inform the relevant authorities of the changes. When you are applying to change the engine of your motor vehicle, you need to be ready with the following list of documents.

General Requirements

The basic requirements include the following:

Additional Requirements

The need for additional documents may vary depending on the type of change the car owner wishes to apply for. For changes in the car body design, here’s a list of the additional requirements 

  • If For-Hire, LTFRB electronic confirmation 
  • Original and one (1) photocopy of Certificate of Stock Reported (CSR) and Sales Invoice
  • Original Deed of Sale/Deed of Donation of engine if sourced from previously registered motor vehicles acquired from different persons or entities
  • Original Joint Affidavit of Change Engine by owner
  • Latest original Official Receipt (OR) of Motor Vehicle User Charge (MVUC) and other LTO fees payment
  • Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN)

How to File Application for Change Engine of Motor Vehicles

Changing your vehicle engine is a simple LTO process. Like other LTO transactions, it requires submission of the documentary requirements mentioned above. 

Here’s the step-by-step procedure on how to apply for a swap engine of your vehicle:

Step 1: Visit the LTO Office closest to you. 

Step 2: Secure a queue number at the LTO officer-in-charge and wait for your turn.

Step 3: Once your number is called, proceed to the transaction counters. 

Step 4: Submit all the required documents to the Evaluator for evaluation and computation of fees.

Step 5: Once the evaluation is completed, get the actual inspection of motor vehicles with duly accomplished Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR) done.

Step 6: Once the MVIR is ready, proceed to the queue for the cashier window and wait for your turn.

Step 7: Once your name is called, pay for the necessary fees and secure an Official Receipt (OR).

Step 8: Once done, proceed to the Releasing Counter.

Step 9: Present the OR to get the new Certificate of Registration (CR), plates, stickers, and other requested documents.

Step 10: Once you have received the CR and other relevant documents, signs in the CR log book.

Where to File Application for Change Engine

Filing for a change in color for your motor vehicle can be done in any LTO Office, district, or extension offices, whichever is more convenient.

Fees for LTO Engine Swap Transactions

The procedures for engine swap for motor vehicles in LTO will require applicants to pay the following:

  • A total of one hundred pesos (P100.00) for the color change fee.
  • Other LTO fees (MVUC, etc.)

Important Reminders

For your reference, here are some things you need to remember when applying for a change in color:

  • Note that all types of changes are subject to inspection as it needs to be checked for safety and to ensure that the change will not cause harm to yourself and to others.
  • That said, the procedure always comes with other fees. 
  • Changing the engine of a motor vehicle is an optional procedure. 
  • It can be done at any of the LTO offices in the Philippines.
  • Engine swapping is only possible if it is compatible with your vehicle in terms of the following:
    • Fuel choice (gas, diesel, electricity)
    • Cylinder layouts (straight, in-line, V, flat)
    • Cylinder configurations (twin cylinder, three cylinder, four cylinder)

Video: Guide on the Requirements for Changing Engines in LTO

You can learn more about the procedures on how to change engines in LTO by watching this video from Mivec Man Challenge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To help make your application for change in vehicle body design as painless as possible, we rounded up the most common questions and answers related to it.

1. Can I apply for the change in engine from any LTO branch office?

Yes. You may swap engines and have it registered at any LTO branch, provided that they offer the service. 

2. Is there a difference when filing for applications for change of engine between private and for hire vehicles?

Yes. There are differences in documentary requirements, but the procedures remain the same. The restrictions remain the same as well, in the sense that it is allowed so long as it doesn’t cause change in vehicle classification.

3. How much does it cost to get an engine swap done in the Philippines?

The price may vary depending on the type of engine—be it brand new, used, or donated from an old car—you require. There are other factors, including engine type, power, condition, fuel, and transmission that may cause a difference in the price for swapping engines.

4. Is LTO imposing a fee for changing the engine of my car?

Yes. The LTO collects a P100.00 charge for changing the engine of your car.

Summary

Engine swapping may not seem like a common practice, but if you are looking for cheaper alternatives to buying a car while looking to extend the lifespan of your car, then engine swapping is the best way to do so. Good thing, changing car engines is allowed by the LTO, and at a minimal price too. However, do note that there might be other LTO fees and a hefty price for the engine swap to worry about. 

How to Request for Re-Stamping of Chassis Number in LTO

Re-stamping of chassis number is a service offered by the Land Transportation Office (LTO). Though it is usually done on motor vehicles whose chassis numbers have been defaced, it isn’t something you can do on your own. Instead, you make a request for authorization from the LTO to have the procedures done at an LTO-accredited manufacturer or rebuilder.

Making such a service request means the motor vehicle owners are trying to seek authorization to have the chassis number re-stamped for vehicles of which the chassis number is unreadable due to corrosion or has been imported from a region which does not require the vehicle identification number (VIN) being stamped in the chassis/frame. It’s a simple process, too. All you need is to prepare the documentary requirements and get started with the procedures at your preferred LTO office. 

restamping chassis number in lto

What is Chassis Number Re-Stamping?

Chassis re-stamping refers to the process of stamping the chassis number of motor vehicles with defaced chassis numbers. It ensures that the chassis number, also known as the vehicle identification number (VIN) or frame number, is visible and readable. After all, the LTO, as the regulatory body, needs to confirm that the vehicle and its parts are the MV’s original components by matching it with the unique identifiers embedded in the VIN which also includes serial numbers. 

Other than being an identifier for original motor vehicle components, ensuring that the chassis number is visible is a particularly important item in the Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR). The stencil or macro-etching procedure for chassis numbers may no longer be mandatory for renewing MV registrations under the same owner but if you intend to sell, the new owner will need the chassis numbers to at least be visible and to match the one on record. As such, it is an important step that can’t be done just anywhere. It has to be at an LTO-accredited manufacturer or rebuilder and it requires authorization from the LTO itself.

Benefits of Chassis Number Re-stamping

Re-stamping of chassis number actually comes with certain benefits like:

  • Easier renewal of vehicle registration for second-hand car owners

  • Clear and visible VIN for easier MV verification

  • Visible chassis number for checking for apprehensions and alarm

  • Clean MVIR

  • Better chassis readability for when needed by verification of public authorities

Qualifications for Chassis Number Re-stamping

Requests for re-stamping of chassis numbers are usually made by the following:

  • Motor Vehicle Owners

Requirements for Chassis Number Re-stamping

When requesting for the re-stamping of chassis number in motor vehicles, applicants will need to prepare the following documentary requirements:

  • Original Certificate of Registration (CR)

  • Affidavit of Owner stating the reason/s or need for re-stamping

Other Documentary Requirements

  • Latest original Official Receipt (OR) of payment

  • Endorsement of District Office that issued the latest Certificate of Registration (CR)

  • Approval of the Regional Director

  • Result of laboratory examination from the Philippine National Police (PNP) Crime Laboratory

  • TMG recommendation

  • Affidavit of Mechanic who performed the re-stamping

  • Actual inspection of MV with duly accomplished MVIR (Motor Vehicle Inspection Report)

  • Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN)

Procedures for Chassis Number Re-stamping

To request for a re-stamping of the chassis number from the LTO, here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Visit your preferred LTO Regional Offices Operations Division or LTO District Offices near you.

Step 2: Proceed to the Customer Service Counter and have your documents checked for authenticity and completeness.

Step 3: Secure a Conductor’s License Application Form.

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

Step 5: When your number is called, proceed to the transaction counters.

Step 6: Submit the application form for re-stamping with all your documentary requirements to the Evaluator.

Step 7: Wait for the CR to be confirmed and the endorsement to the concerned LTO District Office. 

  • If the issuing LTO DO is within the region, they will inspect and retrieve the record upon submission of requirements.

  • If the issuing LTO DO is elsewhere, then you will get an endorsement to the issuing DO for endorsement.

Step 8: Once the records are retrieved and verified, you will be issued an endorsement and instruction to go to the Philippine National Police – Traffic Management Group (PNP-TMG) for the Laboratory examination of the motor vehicle.

Step 9: Proceed to the PNP-TMG for the Laboratory Examination of the motor vehicle.

Step 10: After receiving the PNP/TMG Crime Laboratory Report, proceed to the transacting DO and submit it along with the other requirements for evaluation and approval of re-stamping request.

Step 11: Proceed to the LTO accredited manufacturer/ rebuilder to effect re-stamping of motor vehicles.

Step 12: Submit the stencils of the re-stamped engine/chassis and pay for the re-stamping fee. 

Step 13: Wait for the certificate of re-stamping to be released along with the official receipt (OR). 

Fees for Chassis Number Re-stamping

Requesting for chassis number re-stamping generally only entails paying the LTO the amount of P 90.00 for re-stamping purposes. However, it may require the payment of other LTO fees depending on the requirements you need to secure.

Where to Get it Done

Requesting for chassis number re-stamping can be done at any of the following LTO offices in the Philippines:

  • Regional Offices Operations Division 

  • District Offices

Important Reminders

If you are requesting for chassis number re-stamping, then you can keep these things in mind to make the transaction easier.

  • Chassis modification is something the LTO doesn’t usually allow except for certain circumstances. 

  • Re-stamping is usually done for a defaced chassis number. In cases of chassis modification, a request for changing chassis number is required. 

  • The car’s chassis, or frame, refers to the very foundation where every other component that the motor vehicle carries is built on. As such, it is an important part that needs strict monitoring, which is something that the LTO does.

  • Note that chassis re-stamping requires clearance from the PNP-TMG, so requests for such are subject to laboratory examination which checks for signs of tampering.

  • You may only request for chassis number re-stamping at LTO Regional Offices Operations Division or LTO District Offices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For your reference, here are some common questions and answers regarding re-stamping of chassis numbers in LTO.

1. Are engine numbers and chassis numbers the same?

No. Both the numbers are stamped in the motor vehicle to provide different identification of the car’s model and the engine number. While the Chassis Number or VIN provides details such as the manufacturing date, car model, engine type, fuel type, etc., the engine number is exclusive to the engine block.

2. Should engine and chassis numbers match?

Not necessarily. Engines have serial numbers specific to the production run of that engine. The VIN number has identifiers specific to the car frame and its components and will always be different from the engine number, except in certain cases. Aftermarket reman engines often have heat tabs on the freeze plugs while collector cars will always have the engine and chassis numbers matching.

3. Is the engine information included in the VIN?

Yes. The VIN number, or vehicle identification number, has information on the size of the engine. In the series of numbers and letters in the VIN, the tenth from the left denotes the model year and the eighth is the engine code.

4. Where can I find the chassis number and engine number?

Usually, the Engine Number of a motor vehicle is printed on the outer covering or engine casing of the vehicle’s engine. On the other hand, the car’s chassis number is usually found in the engine bay or beneath the plastic trim around the driver or passenger door opening. Both are used for identification purposes, but they are not the same. They are two different and unique numbers that are equally important identifiers of a motor vehicle.

5. Is it possible to change the VIN or chassis number?

No. VINs, or Vehicle Identification Numbers or chassis numbers, are like the fingerprints of a vehicle and are unique to every car despite similarities in the make and model. 

6. Can I punch the chassis number on my vehicle by myself, like when I get it repaired after being broken?

No. These things need to be declared with the LTO and only after an LTO authorization or approval can you get the chassis number stenciled and stamped. However, you can’t do it by yourself either, as it needs to be done by LTO-accredited manufacturers or rebuilders.

7. Where can I get more information about re-stamping chassis numbers? 

For more information, you may check with the LTO, via the LTO via the LTO Regional Offices Operations Division or LTO District Offices which handle approval of re-stamping chassis number requests.

Summary

Re-stamping of chassis number is a service offered by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) for those who own motor vehicles whose chassis numbers have been defaced. With this service, the agency ensures that the chassis numbers match the original document as registered and that no tampering has been done on it. As such, the motor vehicle is usually subjected to a laboratory examination and only after being cleared will it be approved for re-stamping at LTO-accredited manufacturers or rebuilder in the country. 

LTO License Check: How to Verify Driver’s License Validity Online

Checking to ensure that your LTO Driver’s License, whether it is a Student Permit, a Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL), or a Professional Driver’s License (PDL), is valid is one of the responsibilities of every driver or car owner. As such, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) ensures that every driver or car owner would remember to check for validity of driver’s license by allowing them the ability to do so online. 

In the advent of faster Internet connectivity and more accessible computing devices like smartphones and laptops, it has become so much easier to get connected and to do things online. However, not everyone feels compelled to take advantage of or learn more about the things that can be done over the Internet. For some, transacting face-to-face is better in terms of getting their needs met. That’s why, despite the convenience and ease offered by being able to check LTO Driver’s License validity online, some still don’t know that it is an option or even how it’s done.

lto drivers license verification check

What is an LTO Driver’s License

Driver’s licenses are explicit permits in the form of plastic palm-sized cards issued by the Department of Transportation (DOTr), via the Land Transportation Office (LTO), in a bid to prove that an individual is legally allowed to handle and operate specific motor vehicles on Philippine roads.

It not only proves that you have taken the necessary step to be able to secure the government’s approval to drive, but it also proves that the government finds you roadworthy enough to be allowed behind the wheels. It proves that you aren’t a road hazard, both to yourself and to others, as determined by the relevant authorities. It also functions as a valid ID, which can be used to prove that a person is who he claims to be when transacting with both government and private institutions. 

LTO Driver’s License Check

The LTO driver’s license verification is an LTO service especially designed to allow drivers to check the validity of their driver’s license. This service is meant to help them keep their licenses in check and ensure that they have sufficient reminders on when they need to get their licenses renewed. Though the expiry date is also printed on the driver’s license itself, this LTO service also ensures that they don’t have any reason not to remember when they are expected to renew their licenses.

Benefits of Having a Valid LTO Driver’s License

Having a valid driver’s license and getting the ability to check the license validity online can be considered good public service from the agency. It means that the agency cares enough to ensure that the licensee enjoy the following benefits:

  • 24/7 access without the need to go to any of the LTO offices to check on the license validity.

  • It’s time-saving as you don’t have to take time off from work or family to complete the verification.

  • It supports longer family time since there’s no need to wait in line at the agency branches.

  • It’s convenient as they just need a mobile or computing device—be it a desktop or laptop computer or even a tablet or a smartphone—to run the LTO license check any time of the day.

  • It helps promote administrative procedures since this service helps them do away with a trip to the department registry to get the information they need.

  • It helps them avoid potential penalties and legal repercussions associated with driving without a license or with an expired license. 

  • It offers a valid photo ID that can be used when transacting in both public and private offices.

  • It obliges the licensees to watch their due date for renewal to ensure roadworthiness and safety while driving.

Who Needs to Check LTO Driver’s License Status

This LTO service allows users to verify the validity of driver’s licenses. It can be done by any individual in the Philippines who wishes to check or verify the status of a specific Philippine driver’s license. However, it is particularly effective and helpful to the following groups:

  • People who are looking to hire a person they don’t really know as their driver;

  • People who need to rent a car with driver service; and

  • Drivers who wish to avoid being asked or having to answer too many questions when apprehended by the police

  • People whose jobs involve driving another person’s car

  • Car owners who wish to check whether the driver of their car to whom they would let out or lend

  • Authorities who need to check the legitimacy and validity of an apprehended driver’s license

Read This: If you Need to track the delivery of your driver’s license or plate number, you can use the LTO Tracker tool for that.

What do You Need to Verify Your LTO Driver’s License Validity Online

Running a driver’s license check or verification online is a simple process that doesn’t require much except for the following:

  • An active Internet connection

  • A computing device—preferably a smartphone

  • Active network service and load balance

What are the Requirements to Verify License Validity Online

To check or verify the status of an LTO driver’s license, you must have the following: 

  • An LTO driver’s license to check

  • First and Last Name

Step-by-step Procedures to Verify LTO Driver’s License Validity Online

To  learn how to verify the status of an LTO driver’s license, these are the steps you need to follow: 

Online, via the LTO website

Verifying the status or validity of an LTO driver’s license online is no longer available via the Online Inquiry tab on the LTO official website. You may, however, check on your LTO profile by logging into your Land Transport Management System (LTMS) portal online account and checking your information. 

If you do not have an LTMS account yet, you may register for an LTMS account. 

Via SMS

Step 1: Draft a text message to the LTO according to the following pattern:

LTO LICENSE [Driver’s license number] 

Step 2: Send it to 2600. 

Step 3: Wait for the system-generated message from the LTO once the text message was sent. 

The reply will give the following details

  • Period of license validity

  • If there has been any apprehension.

  • If there is any LTO alarm.

Fees

A charge of Php 2.50 is charged for the SMS service. Accessing the LTMS portal is free though.

Important Reminders

For your reference, here are some important reminders worth taking note of. 

  • Non-professional driver’s license issued for the first time is only valid for five (5) years.

  • Holders of license with five-year validity must take the PME within 60 days before their 3rd birthdate from the issuance of their license.

  • Those with a ten-year license, must undergo their PME before their 4th and 7th birthdays from the issuance of their license.

  • License holders are also required to submit a medical examination certificate from LTO-accredited clinics each time they renew their licenses.

  • License holders whose DL has expired for 10 years or longer are no longer allowed to drive and will be required to apply for a student permit again.

Video: How to Check the Status of Your LTO Driver’s License 

Learn more about how to check the validity of your driver’s license with LTO by watching the video from Ricardo Ronaldo:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some of the most common questions and answers regarding checking the validity of the LTO driver’s license:

1. How long is the validity period of an LTO driver’s license?

The validity period changes depending on the license type. For Student Permits, the validity period is one year. On the other hand, first-time professional and non-professional driver’s licenses, as well as those who are renewing with traffic violations, get licenses that are valid for five years. If the licensee has a clean record, then he or she can renew his or her license and secure one with a 10-year validity period as per Republic Act 10930.

2. When will my license expire?

If you are looking for the expiration date of your driver’s license, then you can find it on the card’s front side. The validity period of your DL will also depend on whether your license is issued before or after your birthday. If your license was issued before your birthday, the current year is included in the validity period. Otherwise, the current year is not included when counting the validity period. 

3. Where can I find the information on my license type? 

If you need to check your new LTO driver’s license for the license type and restrictions, you may check the back of your license card. The license type information is in there, but unlike the old one, it is no longer on the front side.

4. Who do I reach out to for inquiries and concerns?

For more information or other concerns, you may contact the LTO at:

Land Transportation Office
Office Address: LTO Compound, East Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City, 1100 Philippines
Tel. No.: 89229061 to 63
Email Address: ltomailbox@lto.gov.ph
Official website: https://lto.gov.ph/

Summary

Whether you are a holder of a Student Permit, a Non-Professional Driver’s License (NPDL), or a Professional Driver’s License (PDL), ensuring its validity is one of the responsibilities of every driver or car owner towards road safety. After all, a valid driver’s license proves that the driver is roadworthy and that it is highly likely that the drivers and passengers of the vehicle will be safe during the trip. 

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