How to Convert Your Car for TNVS in Metro Manila

The growing demand for ride-hailing services in Metro Manila has opened up new opportunities for car owners who want to earn extra income. Turning your private vehicle into a Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) unit is one way to tap into this market. However, the process isn’t as simple as signing up with a ride-hailing app as you’ll need to go through several government steps, particularly with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

If you’re planning to take this path, here’s a step-by-step guide to converting your private car for TNVS use in Metro Manila, with a focus on LTO requirements.

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Step 1: Check if Your Vehicle Qualifies

Before starting the process, confirm that your car meets LTFRB and LTO requirements. Generally:

• Age requirement: Vehicles must be less than 7 years old for TNVS.
• Type: Sedans, hatchbacks, AUVs, and MPVs are allowed; SUVs and higher-capacity vehicles may also qualify depending on the platform.
• Condition: Your car must be in good running condition with valid registration.

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Step 2: Apply for a TNVS Franchise with LTFRB

Although this guide focuses on LTO processes, it’s important to note that you cannot start with LTO right away because you need an LTFRB franchise. This involves filing for a Provisional Authority (PA) or Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC). Once LTFRB grants you authority, you can proceed to convert your registration classification at LTO.

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Step 3: Secure Your Requirements for LTO

When converting your car from private use to “for hire” status, you’ll need to prepare several documents. These include:

• Original Certificate of Registration (CR)
• Latest Official Receipt (OR) of registration
• LTFRB Provisional Authority or CPC
• Insurance policy (CTPL for hire)
• Valid ID of the vehicle owner
• Notarized affidavit of change of classification

Make sure you photocopy these documents, as LTO will require both originals and duplicates.

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Step 4: File for Change of Classification at LTO

This is where your car’s legal status officially changes from private to “for hire.” Here’s how it usually goes:

1. Proceed to your assigned LTO District Office (where your vehicle is registered).
2. Submit all requirements to the Evaluator.
3. Pay the necessary fees, which may include:
   • Change of Classification fee
   • Inspection fee
   • Computer fee
4. Vehicle Inspection: Your car will undergo a motor vehicle inspection to ensure it’s roadworthy and compliant with safety standards.
5. Approval and Stamping: Once approved, your Certificate of Registration (CR) will be updated to reflect its new classification.

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Step 5: Update Your Vehicle Plates and Stickers

After LTO approves your change of classification, you may also be issued new license plates marked “For Hire.” If not immediately available, your OR/CR will serve as proof of your updated status until the plates are released. You’ll also need to display LTFRB-issued stickers inside your vehicle once operations begin.

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Step 6: Keep Your Registration and Franchise Active

Converting your car to TNVS isn’t a one-time task. You’ll need to renew your LTO registration annually and ensure that your LTFRB franchise remains valid. That’s why you must always keep your OR/CR, LTFRB documents, and insurance papers inside the car to avoid penalties during random inspections.

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Tips for a Smooth Process

• Double-check document completeness before heading to LTO to avoid repeat visits.
• Work with your TNVS operator (e.g., Grab, inDrive, etc.), as many offer assistance in preparing LTFRB and LTO requirements. Grab has a more specific process, and they require some of the documents to be submitted to them directly.
• Set aside time and budget, since both agencies may take weeks to process applications.

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Ready for Your First Passenger?

Converting your private vehicle into a TNVS unit in Metro Manila requires patience and attention to detail, especially when dealing with the LTO and LTFRB. While the paperwork may seem overwhelming at first, completing the process ensures your vehicle is legally allowed to operate as a ride-hailing car. With the right preparation, you can turn your car into a reliable source of income while staying fully compliant with government regulations.