Vehicle Requirements and Inspections

Created by Okito Support, Modified on Fri, 20 Sep, 2024 at 3:05 PM by Okito Support

Four-Door Vehicle: The vehicle must be a four-door car (sedan, SUV, MPV, or van) to ensure passenger safety and comfort.
Passenger Capacity: The car should accommodate at least four passengers, excluding the driver.
Vehicle Age: The car typically should not be older than 7 to 10 years from the current year, although this limit may vary depending on the ride-hailing company.

Good Working Condition: The vehicle must be well-maintained and free of any major defects. This includes a functional engine, transmission, brakes, lights, and air conditioning system.
Exterior and Interior: The car’s exterior should be free of significant damage, rust, or missing parts. The interior should be clean, and free of odors, and all safety features, such as seat belts, must be fully functional.
Air Conditioning: The vehicle must have a working air conditioning system, which is crucial for passenger comfort, especially in the Philippines' hot and humid climate.
No Modifications: Vehicles should not have any non-standard modifications that might affect safety or performance.

Certificate of Registration (CR): The vehicle must have a valid CR issued by the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
Official Receipt (OR): The OR from the LTO must be current, indicating that all necessary fees and taxes have been paid.
Comprehensive Insurance: The vehicle should have comprehensive insurance coverage, including passenger insurance, which covers damages and liabilities during an accident.

Before being approved to operate, the car must undergo a series of inspections to ensure it meets the required standards:

Visual Check: Inspectors will perform a visual check of the vehicle’s exterior and interior to ensure it is in good condition. This includes checking for dents, scratches, and the cleanliness of the car.
Functionality Test: A test of the car's key functions, such as headlights, taillights, brake lights, wipers, horn, and air conditioning.
Safety Features: Inspectors will ensure all safety features, including seat belts and airbags, are present and in working condition.

Accreditation: The vehicle must be accredited by the LTFRB as a Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS). This process involves applying for and receiving a Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC) or a Provisional Authority (PA).
Emission Testing: The vehicle must pass an emission test, which is part of the LTO's annual registration requirements to ensure it complies with environmental standards.
Roadworthiness: The vehicle will undergo a roadworthiness test, which includes checking the brakes, steering, suspension, and other critical systems.

In-App Inspection: The ride-hailing company may require an additional inspection conducted by their representatives or partner service centers. This ensures the vehicle meets their specific standards for quality and safety.
Driver Onboarding: During the inspection, the company may also conduct a driver onboarding session, where the driver learns about the app, company policies, and customer service expectations.

After the initial approval, drivers must ensure that their vehicles remain in good condition throughout their tenure with the ride-hailing service:

Scheduled Maintenance: Drivers should follow a regular maintenance schedule as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer, including oil changes, tire rotations, brake checks, and fluid top-ups.
Upkeep: The vehicle should be kept clean and in top condition, both internally and externally, to provide a comfortable ride for passengers.

Company-Required Inspections: Some ride-hailing companies may require periodic inspections to ensure the vehicle remains in compliance with their standards.
Government-Mandated Inspections: The vehicle must undergo the annual LTO inspection and emission testing as part of the registration renewal process.

Vehicle Defects: Drivers should report any issues with their vehicle immediately and avoid operating the vehicle until repairs are made.
Accidents and Repairs: If the vehicle is involved in an accident, it must be fully repaired and pass another inspection before being allowed back on the platform.

Electric Vehicles (EVs): If using an electric vehicle, check with the ride-hailing company for any additional requirements, such as charging infrastructure or specific inspections.