If you’re planning to transfer ownership, change your vehicle’s color, or replace a lost Certificate of Registration (CR) or Official Receipt (OR), you’ll need to go through LTO stencil and chassis number verification.
This process helps the Land Transportation Office confirm your vehicle’s identity and check for any signs of tampering or illegal modification.
Unlike plain renewal transactions, which no longer require stenciling, these specific cases still do.
It may sound technical, but don’t worry—we’ll walk you through it step-by-step.
And yes, there are fees involved, depending on the service you’re applying for (such as re-stamping).
Why Is Stencil and Chassis Verification Important?
Every vehicle has a unique chassis and engine number, just like a fingerprint.
LTO uses these numbers to match your vehicle with its official records.
If a vehicle’s numbers are unreadable or don’t match the CR, it raises red flags—possibly pointing to theft, tampering, or fake documents.
The stencil verification ensures that your vehicle is safe, legally registered, and fully compliant with LTO rules.
Who Needs This Process?
You’re required to undergo stencil and chassis number verification if:
- You are transferring vehicle ownership.
- The vehicle has undergone color change.
- Your OR or CR is lost or unreadable.
- You’ve installed a replacement engine or your chassis was damaged and repaired.
If you’re only renewing your registration under the same name with no major changes, you don’t need this process anymore.
LTO removed the stencil requirement for plain renewals in May 2023.
Required Documents Checklist
Before going to the LTO, make sure you have:
- Original Certificate of Registration (CR)
- Latest Official Receipt (OR)
- Affidavit of the vehicle owner stating the reason for the request
- Endorsement from the LTO District Office that issued the latest CR
- Approval from the LTO Regional Director
- Inspection result from a PNP Crime Laboratory (macro-etching or lab test)
- Recommendation from PNP-Highway Patrol Group (HPG) or Traffic Management Group (TMG)
- Affidavit from the mechanic who did the re-stamping (if applicable)
- Completed Motor Vehicle Inspection Report (MVIR)
- Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)
Missing even one of these can delay your application.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Go to the Nearest LTO District or Regional Office
Head to the Customer Service counter and ask for assistance.
- Submit Your Documents
Present your complete set of documents to the evaluator.
They’ll check everything and verify the authenticity.
- Application Review and Endorsement
If your documents check out, the evaluator will process an endorsement.
If the office that issued your CR is in the same region, they will retrieve your record.
If it’s from another region, expect a longer wait due to document coordination.
- Proceed to PNP Crime Laboratory
Bring the endorsement and your vehicle to the PNP for a laboratory examination.
This is called macro-etching.
They use paint removers or chemicals to reveal the original engine and chassis numbers.
- Get Your PNP/TMG Crime Lab Report
After the test, you’ll receive a certified report.
Bring this back to the LTO along with your original documents.
- Wait for LTO Approval
Once LTO reviews and approves the lab results, you’ll receive clearance for re-stamping (if needed).
- Re-Stamping of Chassis or Engine (If Required)
Go to an LTO-accredited manufacturer or rebuilder.
Submit the lab report and follow the re-stamping procedure.
Pay the re-stamping fee.
- Submit Final Requirements
Provide the stencil of the re-stamped part, updated documents, and proof of payment to the LTO.
- Receive Certificate of Re-Stamping
Once everything is approved, you’ll be given a Certificate of Re-Stamping and the Official Receipt (OR).
How Much Does It Cost?
For plain renewal, the stencil fee has been removed since May 2023.
But for re-stamping or verification due to changes like ownership transfer or lost OR/CR, expect to pay for:
- Laboratory Examination:
- This fee varies depending on the specific requirements and the LTO office handling the process.
- Re-stamping Service Fee:
- The re-stamping fee is typically around PHP 90.00
- Miscellaneous LTO Charges:
- Transfer of Ownership: PHP 50.00
- Duplicate Certificate of Registration (CR): PHP 30.00
- Duplicate Official Receipt (OR): PHP 30.00
- Clearance Fee: PHP 30.00
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s best to contact your local LTO office or check their latest fee schedule.
How Long Does the Process Take?
If you’re lucky and your papers are complete, the process can be done in a day or two.
But delays may happen if:
- The issuing LTO office is in another region
- The lab test results take time
- Some documents are missing or need correction
So, it’s best to go early and prepare for at least 2-3 working days.
Where Can I Get Help or Clarification?
Each LTO office has its own process rhythm.
It’s best to call your local LTO office before visiting.
You can also check the LTO portal for updates, forms, and schedules.
For PNP lab locations, contact your regional PNP-HPG office.
Reminders for a Smooth Process
- Bring your vehicle with you for the physical inspection.
- Make sure your documents are complete and original.
- Keep multiple photocopies for submission.
- Don’t forget your ID and TIN.
- Be patient, especially if your record needs to be retrieved from another region.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I do this process online?
No. Stencil and chassis number verification requires physical inspection and laboratory testing.
2. What happens if I skip this requirement?
Your LTO transaction (e.g. transfer of ownership) will not be processed.
You might also face legal issues if the vehicle’s identity can’t be verified.
3. Is this needed for brand-new vehicles?
No. New vehicles from dealerships already come with verified and registered details.
4. What if the chassis number can’t be read?
The LTO may refer your case for re-stamping and will require a mechanic’s affidavit and a PNP crime lab test.
Conclusion
Whether you’re buying a secondhand car or fixing an old one, knowing how to complete your LTO stencil and chassis verification is key.
It might take some time and paperwork, but it protects you from bigger problems later.
Stay informed, prepared, and patient—your smooth registration depends on it.