LTO Motorcycle Registration For 2026: A Complete Guide for New And Used Motorcycles In The Philippines
LTO Motorcycle Registration. So, you have purchased a new motorcycle. If you purchased your motorcycle from an accredited importer or dealer, then you will be able to take advantage of the registration services that they offer in conjunction with the purchase. A delay of up to six months may occur before the OR/CR is released depending on the arrangements with your dealership. In any case, if you wish to use your motorcycle on public roads, you must take matters into your own hands and attend to the registration process yourself at the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
You will need to understand exactly how registration, ownership transfers, and other legal matters work as part of your motorcycle ownership responsibilities if you intend to register your new motorcycle by yourself. We have prepared a guide with all the information you will need, including the steps, requirements, and other things you must accomplish in order to register your motorcycle (MC) in the Philippines.
What is LTO Motorcycle Registration
Whenever you purchase a new motorcycle, you should register it with the LTO as a first step. If you register via an accredited dealer or importer or if you register yourself, you must obtain an LTO Official Receipt and Certificate of Registration (OR/CR) before you can legally use your motorcycle on public roads.
The law requires that a motorcycle (MC) registration be obtained because it is an offense to drive a vehicle without an OR/CR. If your motorcycle is not registered, you should not ride it unless you are willing to pay fines, have it impounded, or get involved in a legal battle you cannot win. If your motorcycle is not registered, you should only ride it for one week with the purchase documents. If you wish to ride it on a public road, you should refrain from doing so.
Requirements for Initial MC Registration
A motorcycle owner who wishes to register a motorcycle with the LTO must prepare the following documentary requirements according to the type of motorcycle:
General Requirements
- PNP-Highway Patrol Group MV Clearance Certificate
- Certificate of Stock Report (CSR)
- LTO Client/Business ID
- Proof of electronically transmitted appropriate insurance certificate of cover (CTPL)
Additional Requirements
Brand New, Locally Assembled/manufactured Completely Built Units (CBU)
- Original Sales Invoice
- Original Certificate of Stock Report (CSR)
- Original LTO copy or electronically-transmitted appropriate insurance Certificate of Cover (3rd party liability)
- Payment Reference Number (PRN), If the payment was made using e-PAT
- Original copy of Philippine National Police , Highway Patrol Group (PNP HPG) Motor Vehicles (MV) Clearance Certificate and Special Bank Receipt (SBR)
Tax Exempt:
- Certificate of Emission Compliance (CEC)
- Duly accomplished Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR)
For Used, Imported Motorcycles
- Duly accomplished Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR)
- Commercial invoice
- Certificate of Emission Compliance (CEC)
How to Register Motorcycle (MC) Vehicle in LTMS Office Or Branch?
The general process may vary depending on the location, but the steps are the same. You need to do the following:
- Go to the nearest LTO branch, regardless of if it is a Regional, District, or Extension Office, provided that it comes with a new registration unit.
- Please submit the required documents to the LTO Regional or District Office New Registration Unit.
- Proceed to your chosen LTO branch cashier, pay the fee, and wait for the OR to be issued.
- Submit the OR to the next station in the LTO branching process.
- Please wait for your OR again, along with the new CR, plates, and RFID sticker.
Note: It may be necessary to have temporary motorcycle plates provided at first if a motorcycle plate is not available at your preferred LTO branch.
Via LTMS Portal (for Dealers and MAIRDOEs)
Follow some steps to registration of Motorcycle
- Once your Log in to the LTO MAIRDOE Portal.
- Please upload the Sales Invoice, CSR, and other relevant documents.
- Fill out the buyer’s information and complete the registration process.
- Wait for the registration approval after making a payment.
- Upon approval, wait for plates, stickers, and RFID stickers to be issued as well as the OR/CR.
Registration of Motorcycles – Video Guide
LTO Motorcycle Online Registration via LTMS
The LTO now allows online registration via the LTMS (Land Transportation Management System) portal.
- Visit portal.lto.gov.ph official website
- Register or log in to your account
- Choose “Motor Vehicle Registration”
- Fill in details and upload scanned documents
- Book an appointment slot
- Pay through the system (GCash, PayMaya, etc.)
- Proceed to the LTO branch for final verification
Note: Online registration is applicable for renewals only, not new registrations.
Read also: LTO Portal Login
Used-Imported Motorcycles
Motorcycles that have been exempted from EO 156/877-A are those that have been imported into the Philippines after being exempted from the law that restricts the importation of used vehicles.
When registering a used motorcycle imported into the country that is exempt from this law, you must present the following documentation:
- One (1) photocopy of a commercial invoice or title certificate authenticated by the Embassy in English
- In the Philippines, an original, duly completed motor vehicle inspection report (MVIR) along with a certificate of compliance with emission standards
- Imported motor vehicles acquired through public bidding requirements
- A certified true copy of the Official Receipt (OR) proving payment of the acquisition cost
- The notice of award must be accompanied by one (1) certified true copy
Note: When acquiring a motorcycle through this method, there are specific steps to follow for it to be legally registered in the Philippines.
Who Is The Qualifications For Motorcycle Registration?
Motorcycle registration can be obtained by the following steps, according to the Land Transportation Office (LTO):
- Motor vehicle owners
- Accredited dealers
- Accredited importers
LTO Motorcycle Registration Fee
- Registration Fee: ₱240 (without sidecar) or ₱300 (with sidecar).
- CTPL (Compulsory Third Party Liability) Insurance: Fee range from ₱300 to ₱600,
- Emission testing: Fee ranges from ₱300 to ₱500,
MC Processing Time
The processing time is estimated to be 1 hour, 30 minutes via the LTMS, and 3 hours, 15 minutes using the old system.
In addition to the waiting time, it begins as soon as all requirements have been submitted.
MC Registration Validity Period
A motorcycle with an engine displacement of 201cc or greater is initially eligible for a three-year registration; motorcycles with engines weighing less than 200cc are eligible for a one-year registration. The initial registration validity for motorcycles with a displacement of 200cc and below will be extended to three years beginning on May 15, 2023. The subsequent renewals will remain valid for one year, so motorcycle owners should renew their registration before it expires.
Change of Ownership of Motorcycle With LTO
It is important to transfer ownership of your second-hand motorcycle as soon as possible if you are buying a pre-owned motorcycle, even though legally the motorcycle is already yours. You will be asked fewer questions at a checkpoint once you have presented the documents proving your ownership.
The steps listed below can be used by motorcyclists who wish to facilitate a change of ownership.
Requirements of Change of Ownership of Motorcycle With LTO
Please find below a list of documents you will need:
- Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN).
- MV Clearance Certificate from PNP-HPG
- Proof of insurance coverage (CPTL).
- Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR).
- Notarized Sale Deed
- Latest OR and original CR
- Photocopy of 2 (two) valid government-issued IDs of the original owner and the new owner with 3 (three) signatures of each person on every photocopy.
Brand new motorcycle with sidecar (TC)
The original attachment affidavit for the sidecar signed by both the owner and mechanic, including the date of completion.
Registration Procedures
Here are the steps to getting it registered:
- Provide all requirements or Required documents to the appropriate LTO Regional, District, or Extension office.
- Have the motorcycle details verified by an LTO evaluation officer.
- Proceed to the cashier and pay the LTO fee for transfer of ownership.
- Upon completion, wait for the official receipt (OR) and documents proving New ownership.
- Take photocopies of the new documents for safekeeping.
LTO Motorcycle Registration Details In PDF
Important Reminders
The following things should be taken into consideration when registering your motorcycle for the first time:
- Registrations for motorcycles (MC) may be renewed one (1) month before the due date for renewal, but not later than the last working day of the week indicated by the second to last digit of the plate number.
- When renewing, only official inspections from Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Centers (PMVICs) will be accepted.
- A motorist may still use the emission testing report from a Private Emission Testing Center (PETC) when reregistering their vehicle at an LTO branch. However, online renewal would only accept inspections conducted by a Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Center (PMVIC).
- If your motorcycle’s record has not been uploaded to LTMS, you will not be able to renew the registration online. If you wish to renew your vehicle, you will be required to do so the old-fashioned way-by visiting and interacting with any of the LTO’s regional, district, and extension offices.
- It will be necessary to obtain an Affidavit of Loss if you lose the official receipt from the initial registration.OR
- While your Certificate of Registration (CR) must be presented at the LTO branch, you should not submit the original copy as a photocopy will suffice to meet the registration renewal requirements.
Key Components of LTO Motorcycle Registration
Registering a motorcycle with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) involves several important steps to ensure legal compliance and road safety:
- Submission of Required Documents: Motorcycle owners must provide essential documents, including the Certificate of Stock Report (CSR), valid insurance policy, and other supporting papers depending on whether the motorcycle is brand new or second-hand, imported or locally purchased.
- Motorcycle Inspection: The motorcycle is subject to an inspection process conducted by LTO personnel. This step verifies the vehicle’s roadworthiness, checks engine and chassis numbers, and ensures compliance with safety regulations.
- Payment of Applicable Fees: Several fees must be settled as part of the registration process, such as the Motor Vehicle User’s Charge (MVUC), legal research fee, plate number costs, sticker fees, and any other applicable charges based on vehicle specifications.
- Issuance of OR and CR: Once payment is confirmed, the LTO issues two important documents:
- The Official Receipt (OR) – serves as proof of payment.
- The Certificate of Registration (CR) – outlines detailed specifications and official ownership details of the motorcycle.
- Distribution of License Plate and Registration Sticker: Upon successful registration, the motorcycle is provided with a license plate and a registration sticker. These items serve as official identifiers, ensuring the vehicle is legally recognized on public roads.
Benefits of LTO Motorcycle Registration
Just like vehicle registration for cars, LTO motorcycle registration offers several important benefits that contribute to both personal safety and public order. Here’s why registering your motorcycle is crucial:
- Easier Identification: By registering your motorcycle, you receive a unique license plate number and an official Certificate of Registration (CR). These identifiers make it easier for authorities and the public to identify your vehicle when needed.
- Proof of Ownership: The Official Receipt (OR) and Certificate of Registration (CR) serve as undeniable proof that you legally own the motorcycle. This is essential when selling, transferring ownership, or settling disputes.
- Safety Assurance: Registration ensures that your motorcycle meets roadworthiness standards through inspections and emission testing, reducing the risk of accidents due to mechanical failure.
- Legal Compliance: Complying with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) regulations helps you avoid legal penalties, such as fines or impoundment. It also protects your rights as a registered vehicle owner.
- Public Safety Contribution: Motorcycle registration fosters accountability on the road. In the case of violations or accidents, it’s easier to track responsible parties and enforce road safety laws.
- Prevention of Illegal Activities: Registered motorcycles are less likely to be stolen or used in illegal transactions, as ownership is traceable. This reduces the risk of theft, unauthorized use, and black-market sales.
FAQs About LTO Motorcycle Registration
What is the validity period of a newly registered motorcycle in the Philippines?
Ans: As of May 2023, all motorcycles regardless of engine displacement are eligible for a three-year initial registration. After that, annual renewal is required.
Can I drive my motorcycle while waiting for the official OR/CR?
Ans: No, unless it’s within the seven-day grace period allowed using the sales invoice and purchase documents. Riding beyond that without OR/CR may lead to penalties or impoundment.
How can I renew my motorcycle registration online?
Ans: You can renew your motorcycle registration online via the LTMS portal at portal.lto.gov.ph, provided your motorcycle’s record is already uploaded in the system.
How much does LTO motorcycle registration cost in 2025?
Ans: Registration costs vary, but typical fees range between ₱1,200 to ₱1,800, including insurance, inspection, and emission testing.
What documents are needed to transfer ownership of a motorcycle?
Ans: You’ll need the Deed of Sale, latest OR/CR, MVIR, insurance, TIN, valid IDs, and a PNP-HPG clearance certificate for the change of ownership.
Conclusion
Registering your motorcycle with the LTO is essential for legal road use and rider safety. Whether you purchased a brand-new or second-hand unit, understanding the process helps avoid penalties and ensures compliance. Follow the proper steps, prepare the required documents, and stay updated through LTO’s LTMS portal for a smoother, faster motorcycle registration experience in the Philippines.
