MV File Number: Everything you need to know

An MV File Number serves as identification on a temporary license plate number until an original registered plate number is issued.

1. Why MV File Number is created?

Some people say that the highways and roads in the country are not widening, but the number of vehicles is increasing. We can expect more and more vehicles to come in the following years as low down payments and cash discounts are more attainable these days.

For this reason, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) is having a difficult time handing out license plate numbers. Some shared that they have availed of the new plate number way back in 2016 but still haven’t received it.

The LTO MV File Number can be located on the bottom part of a temporary plate

This is where the Motor Vehicle (MV) File Number takes its place for motorists. This will help curb the need for proper identification on the road.

Of note, the MV file number LTO and conduction sticker both serve the same purpose. They are attached to a vehicle to assure its legality. However, a conduction sticker is attached to a vehicle prior to the release to the new owner from a dealership.

Yes, LTO still allows vanity plates that cost Php 10,000 and more

Without a conduction sticker, the vehicle could be suspected as something that didn’t go through legal procurements. A conduction sticker is usually found on the top left side of the rear windshield color-coded in either white or orange.

An MV file number has 15 digits based on the initial registration of the Certificate of Registration (CR) of a vehicle. This can be located on the bottom part of a temporary license plate below the plate number if you are still not issued with the original LTO plate. You cannot change your MV file number just like your plate number.

Here's the layout provided by LTO for temporary plates

To make it easier for motorists, LTO is allowing you to make your own temporary license based on the agency’s released plate specifications or layout. It is good to keep in mind that this will only apply to vehicles released from February 15, 2017 onwards.

The conduction sticker should be placed on the middlemost part of the temporary license plate, while the MV file number should be placed below the conduction sticker. The dealer’s name should also be placed on each side of the temporary plate. LTO said that the font must be in Arial and the font color must be black.

Be sure to bring with you the proper documents when visiting LTO

If you don’t follow the proper layout given by LTO, then you could get pulled over by an officer and ask it to be replaced as soon as possible. Also, don’t drive out without a plate number prescribed by LTO. If you think that it takes quite some effort to make one, then it is better for you to stay home or borrow someone else’s car.

LTO can fine you as much as Php 5,000 if you are caught driving without a motor vehicle license plate or an illegal license plate. Worse, your car can even be impounded due to the agency’s ‘No Registration, No Travel’ policy.

Owning a car indeed takes a lot of work, from attending to your car’s maintenance schedules to registering it at LTO. Now that you know more about the use of your MV file number and conduction sticker, we hope that your car ownership experience would be more hassle-free.

>>> Related: What Pinoy drivers need to know about LTO OR/CR meaning?

How to verify and how to check MV file number in LTO?                                                                                    

Luckily, verifying your car’s MV file number won’t take a long time. All you need is a computer and an internet connection. The first step is to visit LTO’s official website and head to the Motor Vehicle 7-Character Plate Backlog Inquiry Page. Here, you will be asked to enter your MV file number which can be found on your car’s Certificate of Registration (CR).

Type in your MV file number to get started

If you are given an access plate available scheduling, then your MV file number is valid. You can also schedule to avail of your license plate on the page based on your region if your car still has a temporary plate.

III. LTO List of MV File Number

IV. MV File Number: FAQs

Q: What is a conduction sticker?

A conduction sticker consists of alphanumeric codes that are attached to a car prior to release to a new owner. The codes cannot be altered and it will be used when an original LTO plate number is already issued.

Q: How to get MV file number?

You can find your MV file number on your car’s Certificate of Registration (CR) located at the top right portion of the list next to the plate number. MV file numbers can be used on temporary license plates if LTO hasn’t released your new plate just yet.

Q: How can I verify my MV file number?

You can visit LTO’s official website and head to the Motor Vehicle 7-Character Plate Backlog Inquiry Page. From here, enter your MV file number found on your car’s Certificate of Registration (CV). Once you are in, then your MV file number is valid.

Q: How much is the fine for driving with an illegal plate number?

Driving with an illegal plate or no plate comes with one of the highest fines of LTO at Php 5,000. Moreover, your car can even be impounded if you are unable to show proper documents of the car such as OR/CR and your LTO driver’s license card.

Q: Are conduction stickers and MV file numbers the same thing?

No, conduction stickers and MV file numbers are two different things but both serve as identification. A conduction sticker is already provided in newly manufactured vehicles to assure its legal procurements. On the other hand, an MV file number is provided within the first registration of a new vehicle.

That is all you need to know regarding MV File Number. Here at Philkotse.com, we value your interest in the automotive industry. Visit our website to find out more.