In the Philippines, the loss of a vehicle’s license plate is more than a minor inconvenience; it is a legal matter that requires immediate action to avoid fines and potential criminal liability. Central to the process of obtaining a replacement from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) is the Affidavit of Loss.
This article outlines the legal requirements, the associated costs of notarization, and the procedural steps for vehicle owners in 2026.
I. The Legal Necessity of an Affidavit of Loss
An Affidavit of Loss is a sworn statement where an individual (the affiant) declares under oath the circumstances surrounding the loss of a specific item—in this case, a vehicle license plate.
Under Philippine law, this document serves three primary purposes:
- Legal Notice: It officially informs the LTO and law enforcement that the plate is no longer in the owner's possession.
- Evidence of Good Faith: It helps prove that the owner is not using the vehicle without a plate for illicit reasons.
- Protection Against Liability: If the lost plate is found and used by another person for criminal activity, the notarized affidavit serves as a defense for the registered owner.
II. Notarization Costs in 2026
The cost of notarizing an Affidavit of Loss is not fixed by a single national statute but is influenced by the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) chapter rates, the location of the notary public, and the complexity of the document.
Estimated Cost Breakdown
| Service Type | Estimated Cost (PHP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Notarization (Jurat) | ₱100 – ₱500 | You provide the printed document; the notary only signs. |
| Drafting & Notarization | ₱500 – ₱1,000 | The lawyer or staff drafts the document based on your details. |
| Metro Manila / Urban Areas | ₱300 – ₱800 | Higher rates due to office overhead in business districts. |
| Provincial / Rural Areas | ₱100 – ₱300 | Generally more affordable rates. |
| Indigent Services | FREE | Available at the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) for qualified individuals. |
Note: Some offices may charge an additional ₱30 for a Documentary Stamp Tax (DST), which is often required when submitting documents to government agencies like the LTO.
III. Essential Requirements for the Affidavit
To have the document notarized, the registered owner (or an authorized representative) must present the following:
- Competent Evidence of Identity: A valid government-issued ID (e.g., Driver’s License, Passport, UMID, PhilID).
- Vehicle Details: The plate number, engine number, and chassis number (usually found on the Certificate of Registration).
- Narrative of Loss: A brief explanation of how, when, and where the plate was lost or discovered missing.
IV. Beyond the Affidavit: The LTO Replacement Process
The Affidavit of Loss is only the first step. To get a Duplicate Plate, the LTO typically requires a comprehensive set of documents:
- Notarized Affidavit of Loss: The original copy.
- Certified Police Report: Specifically required if the plate was stolen rather than simply lost.
- Latest Original OR/CR: The Official Receipt and Certificate of Registration.
- LTO Application Form: Specifically the Application for Duplicate/Replacement of Plate.
- Clearance from the HPG: In some regions, a clearance from the PNP-Highway Patrol Group may be requested to ensure the vehicle is not on a "wanted" list.
LTO Fees (Approximate)
As of 2026, the LTO replacement fees for a lost plate generally range from ₱450 to ₱1,000, which includes the cost of the plate itself and administrative/sticker fees.
V. Step-by-Step Procedure
- Report the Loss: If you suspect theft, go to the nearest police station to have the incident recorded in the police blotter and secure a certified report.
- Draft and Notarize: Visit a Notary Public or a law office. Sign the document in the presence of the notary.
- Visit the LTO: Go to the LTO District Office where your vehicle is currently registered (the "Mother Office").
- Submit and Pay: Present your documents for evaluation, pay the corresponding fees at the cashier, and secure your Official Receipt for the replacement plate.
- Temporary Plate: While waiting for the new plate, you may be issued an Authority to Use a Virtual/Temporary Plate. Ensure this follows the latest LTO specifications regarding font and layout to avoid "No Plate, No Travel" apprehensions.
VI. Consequences of False Statements
Under Article 183 of the Revised Penal Code, making a false statement in an affidavit (Perjury) is a criminal offense. If an individual claims a plate was lost when it was actually sold or hidden to evade taxes or fines, they may face imprisonment and significant legal penalties.