Motorcycle is one of the main choices for mode of transportation in the Philippines. They’re more practical than 4-wheel vehicles in terms of gas consumption and, of course, they are much cheaper to obtain.
Buying a brand-new bike is quite easy in the Philippines. But for those who really want to save money, they go for used or second-hand motorcycles. But purchasing and owning a used motorcycle isn’t as easy as, say, buying a second-hand smartphone. There are a couple of legal matters you have to settle, primarily, the Transfer of Ownership with the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
That said, today we’ll guide you through the process of accomplishing the Transfer of Ownership of Motorcycles with the LTO. Let’s begin.
Table of Contents
- Motorcycle Transfer of Ownership Requirements
- Motorcycle Change of Ownership Process
- Motorcycle Transfer of Ownership fees and charges
- Frequently Asked Questions
Motorcycle Transfer of Ownership Requirements
#1 Notarized Deed of Sale
The most important requirement when transferring the ownership of a motorcycle. After the sale transaction is complete, it’s time to draft the Deed of Sale, which must contain both the buyer and the seller’s complete details, as well as details of the motorcycle like the license plate number, engine number, chassis number, and more.
Once the Deed of Sale is complete, it’s time to have it notarized, which costs about Php200 to Php300.
#2 Valid ID of the buyer and seller (Photocopies)
A photocopy of the buyer and seller’s valid ID, together with three signature specimens, is required on the draft of the Deed of Sale. The same document is also required once you start the Transfer of Ownership in the LTO.
#3 Certificate of Registration (Original Copy)
You must also provide the original copy of the motorcycle’s certificate of registration and official receipt (OR/CR). If the vehicle has had two or more previous owners, it’s also best to have all of their OR/CRs in file to ensure a smooth transaction.
#4 Motor Vehicle Clearance Certificate (PNP-HPG Clearance)
A PNP-HPG clearance ensures that the used motorcycle was not stolen or has a bad record with the authorities. To get a PNP-HPG Clearance, you must secure these requirements:
- Notarized Deed of Sale or Writ of Execution
- Official Receipt and Certificate of Registration (Original and photocopies)
- Photocopies of two valid IDs of the seller and buyers with three signature samples
- For mortgaged motorcycles: Original copy of Cancelation/Released Assumption of Mortgage
- Filled out PNP Motor Vehicle Clearance Application Form
Once you have the requirements, proceed to the PNP-HPG office, which is usually conveniently located with LTO offices. Fill up the form, submit the requirements, and pay the Php300 clearance fee.
#5 CTPL Insurance
The Compulsory Third Party Liability (CTPL) essentially protects the owner from any financial liability for any deaths or injuries caused by the vehicle.
You can easily get one via the on-site insurance agents inside LTO offices, or get it at cheaper costs outside.
#6 Certificate of Emission Compliance (Original Copy)
The Clean Air Act of 1999 mandates that all vehicles must be tested for emissions before registration with the LTO. You can have your vehicle tested to get the certificate of compliance inside LTO offices or at any LTO-accredited Private Emission Testing Center (PETC).
- LTO Penalties for Expired Motorcycle Registration: Fees, Schedule, and FAQs
- LTO Classification of E-Bikes and E-Scooters: Helmet, License and Registration Requirements
- No Helmet Violation: Penalties and FAQs
Motorcycle Change of Ownership Process
Once you’ve secured all the requirements, it’s time to head to the LTO office and do the following:
Step 1: Proceed to the window that handles the Transfer of Ownership transactions. Present all the requirements for evaluation and the computation of fees. The representative will hand you a Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR) form and a queue number.
Step 2: Take the MVIR form to the LTO Inspection personnel, who will thoroughly inspect the motorcycle — from the headlight, brakes, signal lights, and more. Once done, the personnel will then fill up the MVIR.
Step 3: Go back to the Transfer of Ownership window. Present the MVIR to the representative, who will review all your documents before submitting it for processing.
Step 4: Go to the cashier area and wait for your queue number to be called. Then, settle the payment.
Step 5: Now, all you have to do is wait for your updated Certificate of Registration and Official Receipt (OR/CR) from the releasing counter.
Motorcycle Transfer of Ownership fees and charges
These are the fees you’d have to prepare before starting the process. Bear in mind that different firms may charge differently for Notary services, same with emission testing centers, insurance, and more. The prices listed below are the most common range. Still, it’s best to bring more money if you can.
| Item | Price |
| Notary Fee | Php150 to Php300 |
| PNP-HPG Clearance | Php500 |
| CTPL Insurance | Php350 |
| Emission Test | Php350 to Php500 |
| Transfer of Ownership and Registration Renewal | Php947 |
| TOTAL | Php2,297 to Php2,597 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the original CR is lost or damaged?
The registered owner must secure a notarized affidavit stating that the original certificate or registration has been lost or damaged. The owner will then have to file for duplicate OR/CR to the LTO office where the original copy was issued.
Application for duplicate OR/CR also requires two valid IDs of the owner and the MVIR. This process can be long and tedious, so prepare for that.
Is it okay to drive a motorcycle that’s not registered to me?
Yes, as long as you have the right driver’s license, you’re good to go. But that’s only ideal if you’re borrowing the motorcycle for a short period of time.
If you already bought it, it’s still best to go through the process of Transfer of Ownership to avoid any hassle on checkpoints, registration renewal, or to ensure that the motorcycle you’re buying has no bad record.
What happens if I don’t process the Transfer of Ownership?
If you don’t process the Transfer of Ownership, you could face the following problems:
- Tougher registration renewal process.
- The original owner will be liable if anything happens to the vehicle.
- A hefty fine of Php20,000 to Php50,000, imprisonment, or both.
- The original owner/seller can easily cancel the contract.
- Challenges in vehicle insurance acquisition.
These are the things you should know about processing the LTO Transfer of Ownership of your used motorcycle. Have any questions? Let us know in the comments section and we’ll try to help you out.