Selling a car in the Philippines can be straightforward—but what if you’re a foreigner? Whether you’re an expat moving out of the country or a non-Filipino resident looking to dispose of your vehicle, here’s a complete guide to help you sell your car legally and smoothly.

Can Foreigners Own and Sell Cars in the Philippines?

Yes. Foreigners are allowed to own and sell cars in the Philippines. However, the key requirement is that the car must be registered under your name or your company. If the car was purchased under someone else’s name (e.g., a local partner or company), you will need their cooperation to complete the sale.

Step-by-Step Guide to Selling a Car as a Foreigner

1. Make Sure the Car is Under Your Name

Before listing your car for sale, confirm that the Certificate of Registration (CR) and Official Receipt (OR) are under your name. If not, a Deed of Sale must be executed to transfer the vehicle under your name first before selling.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

Here are the basic documents needed for the sale:

1. Original CR and OR
2. Valid ID (passport or Alien Certificate of Registration - ACR)
3. Deed of Absolute Sale (DOAS) once you find a buyer
4. Authorization Letter (if a representative is handling the transaction)
5. Notarization for all sale documents

If the vehicle is under financing, unit must be full settled and secure a Loan Clearance Certificate and Release of Chattel Mortgage from the bank.

3. Clear Any Outstanding Fines or Violations

Before the ownership transfer can be processed, you must settle any pending penalties with the Land Transportation Office (LTO). This includes:

1. Traffic violations
2. Unpaid registration fees
3. Emission test requirements

4. Process the Ownership Transfer

The buyer (or the agent) must submit all required documents to the LTO for the transfer of ownership. Mobee can also assist in this step, including:

1. Plate number change (if necessary)
2. Name and address update
3. Release of new OR/CR under the buyer’s name

Can You Sell a Car with a Tourist Visa?

If you're a tourist, it’s more complicated—because LTO requires a valid ACR or proof of long-term stay for vehicle registration purposes. In such cases, we recommend:

1. Selling the car through a trusted local partner or
2. Authorizing a local representative via Special Power of Attorney (SPA)

Tips for a Hassle-Free Sale

1. Use Trusted Platforms: Sell through verified used car platforms like Mobee Cars Philippines to ensure transparent pricing and secure transactions.
2. Get an Inspection Report: Having your car inspected helps set realistic pricing and builds trust with buyers.
3. Be Clear on Timelines: If you're leaving the country, inform the buyer and finalise the transfer before your departure.

Why Sell Through Mobee Cars Philippines?

Mobee Cars makes car selling simple, secure, and stress-free—especially for foreigners. Here's how we help:

1. We inspect your car and match it with verified buyers.
2. We assist with paperwork, ownership transfer, and even LTO coordination.
3. No hidden fees. Just fast, transparent, and legal car selling.

Thinking of Selling Your Car as a Foreigner in the Philippines?

Let Mobee Cars do the heavy lifting.

✅ Free vehicle inspection

✅ Hassle-free paperwork

✅ Safe and fast sale

Visit ph.mobeecars.com or message us directly to get started.