Transfer Ownership: LTO applies easier process for both cars, MCs
Updates in car ownership transfer after changes to motorcycle transfer rule
Since time immemorial, many vehicle owners have resorted to a practice known as “Open Deed of Sale” when buying or selling used automobiles. As the name implies, this practice basically puts a blank buyer regardless of how many times the vehicle has changed owners. The reason: it is very inconvenient to go through the correct process of a vehicle transfer of ownership due to both the LTO and HPG’s very time-consuming and redundant 1970s-era procedures and red tape. We at Autoindustriya.com had our firsthand vehicle transfer of ownership experience here, which took almost 4 months to complete.
Now, the Land Transportation Office (LTO), through its Executive Director, Atty. Greg Pua has announced a series of significant updates designed to streamline the process for both vehicle and motorcycle owners, particularly the transfer of ownership and inquiries about plate status. These changes, detailed in a recent briefing with motorcycle groups, including the Motorcycle Rights Organization (MRO), aim to improve public convenience and efficiency.
20-day transfer start
According to the LTO’s announcement, a 20-day period to initiate the transfer process will apply only to vehicles or motorcycles acquired starting May 24, 2025. For vehicles bought or sold before this date, owners will have until their scheduled vehicle renewal to finalize the ownership transfer.
To expedite the transfer process, the LTO also intends to eliminate the confirmation requirement for vehicles or motorcycles registered in a different location. This will allow individuals to file their transfer at any LTO branch, removing the necessity of waiting for the vehicle’s “mother file” to be transferred. The LTO clarified that the 20-day period is for starting the transfer, with the completion deadline set at the vehicle’s renewal date.
The agency also stated that it will create a downloadable Pro-Forma document to assist those who have lost their Deed of Sale (DOS), have expired IDs attached to it, or can no longer contact the previous owner. To use this, individuals will need to download the form, attach a photograph of themselves holding a current newspaper showing the date alongside the vehicle, have the form notarized, and then upload it to the LTO portal.
The standard fee for the transfer process remains PHP 150.00, and the Pro-Forma is expected to help lower notary fees.
Also, the LTO and the Office of Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito will coordinate with the PNP-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) to explore simplifying and making the vehicle HPG clearance process available online, similar to the LTO’s efforts.
Ease of online uploading
The LTO is also developing a portal/website to allow the public to submit documents and apply for the transfer of ownership online. This initiative is intended to eliminate the need for personal visits to LTO offices, thus reducing queues and waiting times.
In case you missed it, the LTO has already launched ltotracker.com—a portal where individuals can check their plate status and even arrange for courier delivery, removing the need to visit an LTO office for updates.
Photo courtesy of Motorcycle Rights Organization, with LTO Executive Director Atty. Greg Pua (center)
Isumbong mo kay Chief
The LTO emphasized its commitment to these new processes, stating that any LTO branch or personnel not adhering to them can be reported via the provided hotlines and will face appropriate sanctions. The contact details provided are a Viber message line at 09292920865, the LTO Mailbox at ltomailbox@lto.gov.ph, an email for “Isumbong mo kay Chief” at ltoco.feedback@gmail.com, and another email at ltocdmpao@lto.gov.ph.
The LTO reiterated that the entire process is in line with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive to pursue digitalization of government services for the convenience of the Filipino people. Further details will be posted on all official LTO channels soon.
