eCAR Replacement, Reissuance & Reprinting Guide
Complete step-by-step guide to replacing, reissuing, or reprinting your Electronic Certificate of Authority to Register (eCAR) in the Philippines
What you'll learn in this eCAR replacement guide
This eCAR replacement, reissuance, and reprinting guide for vehicle owners in the Philippines walks you through the complete process, from understanding when you need a replacement to gathering all required documents and submitting to your BIR RDO.
For other BIR-related guides, also see our BIR Business Registration Guide, Where to Register Your Business & BIR RDO Guide, and DTI Business Name Registration Guide.
What is an eCAR and Why Do You Need It?
Official BIR Document
An eCAR (Electronic Certificate of Authority to Register) authorizes the registration of motor vehicles in the Philippines
Essential for Vehicle Transactions
Required when buying, selling, transferring ownership, or dealing with lost vehicle documents
Multiple Reasons for Replacement
Lost or damaged certificate, ownership transfer, change in vehicle details, or need for additional copies
When Do You Need eCAR Replacement or Reissuance?
Lost eCAR
If your original eCAR is misplaced, stolen, or destroyed
Ownership Transfer
When selling, donating, or assigning vehicle ownership
Damaged eCAR
If the certificate is torn, faded, or otherwise unreadable
Prepare Your Written Request
Full Name and Contact Details
Include your complete name, address, phone number, and email
Vehicle Details
Provide plate number, engine number, and chassis number
Reason for Replacement
Clearly state why you need the new eCAR (lost, transfer, damaged, etc.)
Signature and Date
Sign and date the document to make it valid
Required copies: 1 original + 2 photocopies
Gather Ownership Transfer Documents
Prepare the appropriate document based on your situation:
Required copies: 1 original + 2 photocopies
Secure Affidavit of Loss (if applicable)
Required Only for Lost eCAR
Skip this step if your eCAR is not lost
State How eCAR Was Lost
Provide specific details about the circumstances of the loss
Declare Non-Surrender
State that you have not surrendered the eCAR to any other party
Sworn Statement
Include your sworn statement of the circumstances
Required copies: 1 original + 2 photocopies (must be notarized)
Pay Required Fees
Two Types of Fees:
Payment locations: BIR Revenue District Office (RDO) or authorized payment centers
Obtain Certification of Payment
For Recent Payments
Request certification from Chief, Collection Section of your concerned RDO
For 1999 and Prior Years
Request certification from Chief Revenue Accounting Division
Required copies: 1 original + 2 photocopies
Submit to BIR RDO
Bring All Documents to Your RDO
The RDO will verify documents, process your request, and issue the new eCAR
Verify Documents
RDO checks all submitted documents
Process Request
Your application is processed
Issue New eCAR
Receive your new certificate
📋 Complete Document Checklist
Before visiting the BIR RDO, ensure you have all these documents:
Written Request for New eCAR
Document of Sale/Transfer (if applicable)
Deed of Sale / Deed of Assignment / Deed of Donation / etc.
Notarized Affidavit of Loss (if lost)
Proof of Payment
Certification of Payment
From Chief, Collection Section (RDO) OR Chief Revenue Accounting Division (for 1999 and prior)
💡 Important Tips for Smooth Processing
Prepare Multiple Copies
Always bring extra photocopies of all documents. BIR offices may require additional copies during processing.
Verify RDO Jurisdiction
Ensure you're visiting the correct RDO where your vehicle is registered. Check your previous eCAR or vehicle registration documents for the correct RDO code.
Check Payment Channels
Confirm accepted payment methods at your RDO. Some offices may have specific banks or payment centers for fee settlement.
Keep Records
Maintain copies of all submitted documents and payment receipts for your records and future reference.
Processing Time
eCAR replacement typically takes several days to process. Inquire about the expected turnaround time when submitting your documents.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Missing Photocopies
Failing to bring the required number of copies (1 original + 2 photocopies) can delay processing.
Incorrect RDO
Submitting to the wrong Revenue District Office will result in rejection and wasted time.
Unsigned Documents
All documents must be properly signed and notarized where required.
Incomplete Affidavit of Loss
A vague or incomplete Affidavit of Loss may be rejected. Be specific about how the eCAR was lost.
Wrong Payment Amounts
Ensure you pay the exact fees: ₱100 certification fee + ₱30 DST per CAR.
⏱️ Processing Timeline and What to Expect
The processing time for eCAR replacement varies depending on:
📝 Conclusion
Replacing, reissuance, or reprinting your eCAR is a straightforward process when you have all the required documents prepared. The key is to:
Identify the correct reason for replacement
Prepare all necessary documents with proper copies
Pay the required fees
Submit to the correct RDO
Follow up on processing status
For business owners with multiple vehicles, maintaining organized records of all eCARs and related documents can streamline future replacement processes. Always keep digital and physical copies of important vehicle registration documents for quick reference.
If you encounter any issues during the process, don't hesitate to consult with your RDO's customer service or seek assistance from a professional document processor familiar with BIR procedures.