The Land Transportation Office (LTO) is an essential government agency responsible for various vehicular concerns, such as registration, licensing, and enforcement. As a responsible vehicle owner, you may need to change your vehicle’s classification for various reasons, like altering its purpose of use or upgrading its capacity. In such cases, the LTO should be your go-to agency for the application and processing of classification changes.
Also read: Motor Vehicle Inspection: Requirements, Process, and Fees
Your venue for registration would depend on the district office indicated in your Certificate of Public Convenience, issued by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). LTO’s quick response to classification applications reflects its commitment to safeguarding public transportation and road safety. Applying for your classification change is made easy and convenient through the LTO district office near you.
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What are the classifications for LTO vehicles?
Vehicle Classifications in the Philippines based on Size and Weight. For registration purposes, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) categorizes vehicles into various types, including passenger cars, trucks, buses, trailers, and even motorcycles.
Advantages
There are several advantages to changing a vehicle’s classification in the Land Transportation Office (LTO):
- Access to different privileges and benefits based on the new classification.
- Compliance with specific regulations and requirements for the new classification.
- Potential cost savings on taxes, fees, and insurance premiums.
- Expanded options for vehicle use and operation under the new classification.
- Improved safety and performance standards associated with the new classification.
Different LTO Vehicle Classifications
a. Private Vehicles
Private Vehicles refer to personal modes of transportation that are owned or used by individuals for their own convenience and mobility. These vehicles are not for public use and are typically used for commuting, running errands, or personal travel. Examples of private vehicles include cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and other similar means of transportation.
b. Vehicles for Hire
Vehicles for hire on the other hand, are typically used to provide passenger or freight services. Examples of these include taxis, delivery trucks, public buses, and other similar types of vehicles that are used by businesses to offer rides and cargo delivery services to their customers. These vehicles must be properly registered with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) before they can be used for commercial purposes.
c. Government Vehicles
Government Vehicles also known as official vehicles, are vehicles that are owned and exclusively utilized by government entities for official purposes. These vehicles play a crucial role in facilitating government operations and services, ensuring efficient transportation for government officials, employees, and resources. From law enforcement agencies to public service departments, government vehicles are essential tools that enable the seamless functioning of various governmental functions and responsibilities.
d. Diplomatic Vehicles
Diplomatic Vehicles are used by foreign embassies and consulates, as well as other diplomatic missions in the country. As a form of concession to the host country, diplomatic vehicles have legal immunity from traffic violations and parking fines. However, these vehicles still need to be registered with the LTO in order for them to operate legally on public roads.
e. Other Exempt Motor Vehicles
Other exempt motor vehicles refers to a specific classification of vehicles used for vehicle registration plates in the Philippines. This classification provides exemptions for certain types of vehicles.
Eligibility
The LTO allows individuals who own a registered motor vehicle and wish to change its classification to do so. However, it is important to note that this can only be done if all the necessary requirements are met and all applicable fees are paid.
Also read: Re-stamping of Engine/Chassis Number: Process, Requirements, and Cost
Requirements
General Requirements
- Present the original Certificate of Registration (CR) or provide certification that the original Certificate of Registration – Encumbered (CRE) is held by the financing company, with no objection to the application for change in classification (from Private to For Hire).
- Provide a copy of the appropriate insurance Certificate of Cover (COC) issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) or transmitted electronically.
Additional Requirements
a. Private Hire
- A valid Motorized Tricycle Operator’s Permit or Decision copy.
- Electronic confirmation of LTFRB Franchise.
b. For Hire to Private
- Official receipt for the original drop-off order
- Receipt for the return of license plates and licenses
c. Private to Government
- Original Deed of Donation and Acceptance
- Original Philippine National Police – Highway Patrol Group Motor Vehicle Clearance Certificate
- Macro-etching report
- Special Bank Receipt (indicating transfer of ownership)
- Original and one photocopy of any valid ID with photo and signature of the vendor and vendee.
d. Private to Exempt
- Certification of endorsement confirming tax exemption for individuals or diplomatic corps.
- Original documents of sale or donation and acceptance.
- Original clearance certificate from the Philippine National Police – Highway Patrol Group for motor vehicles, including macro-etching report and special bank receipt.
- Original receipt for the return plate and licenses.
e. Exempt to Private
- Endorsement for cancellation of exemption with control number (please verify exact terms of the endorsement)
- Certificate of Payment (original copy)
- Receipt of Return Plate and Licenses (original copy)
- Philippine National Police – Highway Patrol Group Motor Vehicle Clearance Certificate (original copy)
- Macro-etching report
- Special bank receipt
f. Exempt to Exempt
- Endorsement for cancellation of exemption with control number (please verify the exact terms of the endorsement)
- Receipt of returned plate and licenses (original copy)
- Certificate of Motor Vehicle Clearance from the Philippine National Police – Highway Patrol Group (original copy)
- Macro-etching report
- Official bank receipt
Also read: Renewing Driver’s License for Filipinos Living Abroad: Processes and Requirements
Application Process
There are several steps you should take before submitting your application:
Step 1: Visit the designated LTO office near your location.
Step 2: Obtain a queue number from the LTO offices-in-charge and wait for your turn.
Step 3: When your number is called, proceed to the transaction counters.
Step 4: Submit all the required documents to the evaluator for evaluation and fee computation.
Step 5: After the evaluation, undergo the actual inspection of your motor vehicle with a duly accomplished Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR).
Step 6: Once the MVIR is ready, join the queue at the cashier window and wait for your turn.
Step 7: When your name is called, make the payment for the fees and obtain an Official Receipt (OR).
Step 8: After completing the payment, proceed to the releasing counter.
Step 9: Present the OR to receive the new certificate of registration, plates, stickers, and any other requested documents.
Step 10: Once you have received the certificate of registration and other relevant documents, sign in the CR log book.
Cost
To change the classification, applications will now need to pay a change classification sticker fee of PHP 150.00, on top of the usual charges.
Video: MOTOR VEHICLE CHANGE CLASSIFICATION REQUIREMENTS | WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR MV CHANGE CLASS?
Summary
Changing the classification of your vehicle might seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite straightforward. To start the process, head to the LTO District Office indicated on your Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) issued by the LTFRB. This office will serve as your registration venue and is responsible for processing your application for a change in vehicle classification. Don’t let the paperwork intimidate you – take a deep breath and follow the steps outlined by the LTO. Before you know it, your vehicle will be properly classified and ready for the road ahead.
Contact Information
Email Address: ltomailbox@lto.gov.ph
Phone: 89229061 to 63
Website: https://lto.gov.ph
