The Paper Trail Conundrum: What to Do When Your LTO OR/CR is on Bond Paper
For any motor vehicle owner in the Philippines, the Official Receipt (OR) and Certificate of Registration (CR) are the most critical documents—they are the vehicle's proof of payment and legal "birth certificate."
Finding that your CR is printed on ordinary bond paper instead of the official security paper can be a cause for concern, but it is a situation the Land Transportation Office (LTO) has officially addressed.
If your Certificate of Registration (CR) is on bond paper, you have been issued a Temporary CR.
Here's the break down what that means, why it happens, and the clear steps you must take to secure your permanent, official document.
Temporary CR vs. Official Security Paper CR: The Difference is Critical
The key distinction lies in the form of the document, which reflects its status in the LTO system:
1. The Temporary CR (Bond Paper)
Why it's Issued: This is typically a stop-gap measure by the LTO to ensure continuous service during a shortage of the special, accountable security paper.
Appearance: Printed on regular A4 bond paper. It should contain all the necessary vehicle details and an original signature from the LTO Head of Office. Crucially, it will be stamped "TEMPORARY CR/CRE."
Validity: The LTO has clarified that a Temporary CR is considered valid for all legal purposes—you can drive your vehicle with it and it will be honored in LTO transactions.
2. The Official CR (Security Paper)
Why it's Required: This is the permanent, accountable form for the Certificate of Registration. It features various security measures (like special coloring, watermarks, and microtext) to prevent fraud and tampering.
Appearance: Usually printed on a special, predominantly yellow or blue security paper stock with the LTO seal and other security features.
Status: It is the permanent legal title for your motor vehicle.
Your Three-Step Action Plan for a Bond Paper CR
If you are currently holding a Temporary CR on bond paper, the process for getting your permanent document is straightforward, thanks to LTO's official guidelines (such as Memorandum Circulars on the matter).
Step 1: Secure and Preserve the Temporary Documents
Since the temporary CR is your only proof of registration until the official paper is released, you must treat it with utmost care.
Keep Originals Safe: Store the original Temporary CR and the Official Receipt (OR) in a safe, water-proof place at home.
Carry Copies Only: For your daily driving, it is highly recommended to only carry clear, legible photocopies of the OR and CR. In the event of a routine stop or checkpoint, these photocopies, accompanied by your driver’s license, are generally accepted by authorities.
Step 2: Understand the Replacement Process
The responsibility for replacement rests with the LTO office where your vehicle was registered (the originating District Office or New Registration Unit).
LTO's Commitment: The LTO is required to keep a record of all temporary CRs issued and, upon the replenishment of security paper stock, must replace all temporary documents.
The "First In, First Out" Rule: LTO offices are directed to process the re-printing of temporary CRs using the "First in, First out" rule, prioritizing the oldest backlogs first.
Notification: The concerned LTO office is mandated to "exhaust all means to notify the concerned owners/dealers as to the availability of replacement CR/CRE." They may do this through public announcements, dealer notifications, or contacting registered owners directly.
Step 3: Claim Your Permanent CR
When you receive notification or when you follow up and confirm that your official CR is ready for printing, you must personally visit the LTO office to claim it.
| Requirement | Description |
| Official Receipt (OR) | Present the original Official Receipt of your registration payment. |
| Temporary CR (Bond Paper) | Submit the original Temporary CR (the one printed on bond paper). This is crucial as the new CR will have a caption stating it "supersedes" the temporary one. |
| Identification | Bring a valid government-issued ID (Driver's License, Passport, etc.). |
The LTO staff will process the replacement, print your permanent CR on the security paper, and release it to you.
Always inspect the final document before leaving the counter to ensure all details (Name, Address, Chassis/Engine Number) are correct.
Latest Update from the LTO
The LTO has recently acquired and distributed fresh supplies of security paper to its regional and district offices.
Multiple LTO Memorandum Circulars have been issued, directing offices to commence the re-printing of temporary CRs/CREs (Certificate of Registration Encumbered) using the new security paper.
This means that if you have been waiting for your official CR, the backlogs are actively being addressed.
Key Takeaways and Final Reminder
Your Bond Paper CR is VALID: Do not panic or worry about legal issues while driving, as long as it is stamped as a Temporary CR.
Keep the Original Safe: The temporary CR and OR are non-negotiable requirements for claiming the permanent CR.
Be Proactive: While the LTO is directed to notify owners, it is best practice to periodically follow up with the LTO District Office where your vehicle was registered, or with your car dealer if they handled the registration for you.
Waiting for official documents can be frustrating, but knowing your rights and the proper procedure ensures that you secure the legitimate and permanent proof of your vehicle's registration without unnecessary delays.