Proper identification of a motor vehicle is crucial for both legal and practical reasons. However, it is not uncommon for the chassis number to be defaced due to reasons such as theft or improper maintenance. In such cases, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in the Philippines may require the re-stamping of the engine/chassis number to ensure its visibility and readability.
Also read: Storage of Motor Vehicles: A Cost-Effective Solution for Vehicle Owners
This process, known as chassis re-stamping, involves stamping the chassis number onto the vehicle frame using specialized tools and techniques. It is important to note that this should only be done by authorized personnel to avoid potential legal issues. The re-stamping of engine/chassis numbers helps to prevent vehicle fraud and promotes road safety for all.
What is Re-Stamping of Engine/Chassis Number?
Chassis re-stamping involves stamping the chassis number of motor vehicles that have defaced chassis numbers. This process ensures the visibility and readability of the chassis number, also known as the vehicle identification number (VIN) or frame number. It is crucial for maintaining the integrity and traceability of the vehicle.
Advantages of Re-Stamping an Engine/Chassis Number
Some advantages of re-stamping an engine/chassis number are:
- Clearly visible chassis number for efficient apprehension and alarm checks.
- Streamlined vehicle registration renewal process for owners of pre-owned cars.
- Pristine Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR).
- Enhanced chassis readability to meet the verification requirements of public authorities.
- Prominent and legible Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to facilitate MV verification.
- Improved security of vehicle ownership and tracking.
- Reduced number of incidences of theft, cloning and fraud by making changes to the engine or chassis numbers harder to accomplish.
- Lower insurance premiums as vehicles with re-stamped chassis numbers are deemed less risky due to better security measures.
- Swift identification of stolen cars with greater accuracy.
- Reduced chances of car seizure by authorities due to incorrect or missing documentation.
What are the Requirements Needed?
a. General Requirements
- Certificate of Registration (CR) – Official Document
- Owner’s Affidavit – Explanation for Re-stamping Requirement
b. Additional Requirements
- To process your request, please provide the following documents:
- The most recent official receipt of payment.
- Endorsement from the district office that issued the latest certificate of registration (CR).
- Approval from the regional director.
- Laboratory examination results from the Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory.
- Recommendation from the Traffic Management Group (TMG).
- Affidavit from the mechanic who performed the re-stamping.
- Actual inspection of the motor vehicle, accompanied by a duly accomplished Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR).
- Taxpayer’s Identification Number (TIN).
Make sure to complete all the requirements before submitting your application. Failure to do so will cause delays in processing and may result in rejection of your request.
Also read: How to Register Your Motor Vehicle: Requirements and Process
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Here is step by step guide to re-stamping of an engine/chassis number:
Step 1: Visit the LTO Regional Offices Operations Divisions or LTO District Offices that you prefer and are nearby.
Step 2: Head to the Customer Service Counter to have your documents checked for authenticity and completeness.
Step 3: Get a Conductor’s License Application Form.
Step 4: Obtain a queue number and wait for your turn.
Step 5: Once your number is called, go to the transaction counters.
Step 6: Submit the application form, along with all your documents, to the evaluator for re-stamping.
Step 7: Wait for the CR to be confirmed and for the endorsement to be given 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 the requirements.
- If the issuing LTO DO is elsewhere, you will receive an endorsement to the issuing DO for further endorsement.
Step 8: After the records are retrieved and verified, you will be issued an endorsement and instructions to proceed to the Philippine National Police – Traffic Management Group 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: Once you receive the PNP/TMG Crime laboratory report, go to the transacting DO and submit it, along with the other requirements, for evaluation and approval of the re-stamping request.
Step 11: Proceed to the LTO accredited manufacturer/rebuilder to have the motor vehicles re-stamped.
Step 12: Submit the stencils of the re-stamped engine/chassis and pay the re-stamping fee.
Step 13: Wait for the release of the certificate of re-stamping along with the official receipt.
Cost for Re-stamping Chassis Numbers
To request for chassis number re-stamping, you usually just need to pay the LTO a fee of PHP 90.00 for the re-stamping process. However, additional LTO fees may be required based on the specific requirements you need to fulfill.
Where to Re-Stamp Engine/Chassis Number?
- Regional Offices
- Operations Division
- District Offices
TIPS for Re-Stamping of Engine/Chassis Number
Re-stamping an engine or chassis number is a complex process that requires expertise and precision. To ensure the highest quality results, follow these tips:
- Seek professional assistance: Re-stamping requires expertise and precision, so it’s best to consult a professional who is experienced in this process.
- Use the right tools: Ensure you have the proper tools and equipment required for re-stamping, such as specialized stamps and a secure work surface.
- Clean and prepare the surface: Before re-stamping, make sure the engine or chassis surface is clean and free from any dirt, oil, or debris that could affect the quality of the stamping.
- Practice on a test surface: If you’re new to re-stamping, it’s a good idea to practice on a test surface before working on the actual engine or chassis. This will help you gain confidence and improve your technique.
- Take your time and be patient: Re-stamping requires precision, so take your time and be patient throughout the process. Rushing can lead to mistakes and compromised results.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the purpose of re-stamping the engine/chassis number?
A: Re-stamping the engine/chassis number is done to ensure proper identification and traceability of the vehicle.
2. Is re-stamping the engine/chassis number legal?
A: Yes, re-stamping the engine/chassis number is legal as long as it is done for legitimate reasons and follows the regulations set by local authorities.
3. Why would someone need to re-stamp the engine/chassis number?
A: There are several reasons why someone might need to re-stamp the engine/chassis number, such as in cases of vehicle theft, damage to the original number, or when importing a vehicle from another country.
4. Can I re-stamp the engine/chassis number myself?
A: It is recommended to have a professional handle the re-stamping process to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulations.
5. How much does it cost to re-stamp the engine/chassis number?
A: To request for chassis number re-stamping, you will usually need to pay the LTO a fee of P 90.00 for the purpose of re-stamping.
6. Can chassis number be changed?
A: Each car is assigned a unique 17-digit code during production, which remains unalterable throughout its lifetime.
7. Is re-stamping the engine/chassis number a one-time process?
A: Yes, re-stamping the engine/chassis number is typically a one-time process, unless there are exceptional circumstances that require further changes or updates.
8. Can re-stamping the engine/chassis number help prevent vehicle theft?
A: Re-stamping the engine/chassis number can act as a deterrent to vehicle theft as it makes it more difficult for criminals to alter or replace the identification of the vehicle.
Summary
Chassis re-stamping is an important process that ensures the visibility and readability of the vehicle identification number (VIN) or frame number. Defaced chassis numbers on motor vehicles can cause problems and bring about security issues. To address this, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has implemented the re-stamping of engine/chassis numbers, making sure that all vehicles on the road have visible and readable VINs. This process ensures the proper documentation and identification of vehicles, which helps prevent car theft and other illegal activities related to motor vehicles.
Contact Information
Email Address: ltomailbox@lto.gov.ph
Phone: 89229061 to 63
Website: https://lto.gov.ph
