How to Trace the First Owner of a Car Using LTO Documents
When buying a used car, one of the smartest things you can do is check its ownership history. Knowing who the first owner was can tell you a lot, like whether the car was used privately or commercially, how well it might have been maintained, and whether the ownership transfers were clean.
In the Philippines, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) keeps detailed vehicle registration records. While not all information is available to the public, there are legal ways to trace a car’s ownership using LTO documents.
Why It Matters
Tracing the first owner can help you:
- Understand how the car was used (private vs. fleet use)
- Spot potential red flags (frequent ownership changes)
- Confirm the legitimacy of the unit and its documents
- Ensure the sale isn’t skipping over important steps or missing signatures
Start with the Basics: Check the CR
The Certificate of Registration (CR) contains:
- The registered owner’s name and address
- Date of registration
- Vehicle description
- MV File Number (used for tracking its record with LTO)
If the CR is still in the first owner’s name, then you're looking at an untransferred vehicle. If not, move on to the next step.
Request a Motor Vehicle History from LTO
To officially trace the first owner, go to your nearest LTO District or Regional Office and request the Motor Vehicle (MV) History.
How:
- Go to the Records Section of the LTO office.
- Provide the plate number or MV File Number.
- Fill out a request form and present a valid ID.
- Pay the processing fee (around ₱100).
- Wait for the printout showing all past owners and transfer dates.
This is the most direct and legal way to trace a car’s ownership history.
Use the LTO Portal (Optional)
The Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) at portal.lto.gov.ph allows you to:
- Check your vehicle’s registration validity
- See if it’s flagged as stolen or has legal issues
While it won’t show past owners, it’s useful for cross-checking info, especially if you already have the plate or MV file number.
Ask for Deeds of Sale (Chain of Ownership)
If you're buying from a private seller or dealer, request the full chain of Deeds of Sale:
- From the first to the second owner
- Second to third, and so on
- Up to the current seller
This can help supplement the MV History and confirm that the ownership transfer was done properly.
Can You Contact the First Owner?
Once you’ve identified the first owner through official records, you may try to reach out, especially if you're trying to verify how the car was maintained. However, always be respectful and clear about your intent. Not everyone will be open to discussing a vehicle they sold years ago.
What You Can’t Do
Avoid services or people claiming they can “trace a car owner” using just a plate number via text or Facebook. These are either fixers or scams. Only LTO offices can legally provide the MV History, and only with proper documentation.
Final Tips
- Always request the CR, OR, and Deeds of Sale when buying a used car.
- Visit the LTO in person for ownership history as it is the most reliable method.
- Be wary of cars that have changed hands too often or too quickly.
While it takes a bit of effort, tracing a car’s first owner through LTO documents can give you confidence before buying a secondhand vehicle. With the right paperwork and steps, you can uncover the full story behind the car, and make sure your purchase is as secure and transparent as possible.
