Registering a new vehicle, transferring ownership, or checking a vehicle's history — NTSA services that you can now do online via eCitizen.
The National Transport and Safety Authority manages vehicle registration in Kenya through its TIMS (Transport Integrated Management System) portal, which is accessible via eCitizen. Here's what you can do online and what still requires a physical visit.
Vehicle ownership transfer: When you buy or sell a vehicle, the change of ownership must be registered with NTSA. Both buyer and seller need eCitizen accounts. The process: 1. Seller initiates the transfer on eCitizen → NTSA → Transfer of Motor Vehicle 2. Buyer logs in and accepts the transfer 3. Pay the transfer fee (varies by vehicle category, typically KSh 1,500–3,500) 4. Receive the new logbook/ownership document
Vehicle search: Before buying a second-hand vehicle, search the NTSA database to verify the registered owner, whether the vehicle has outstanding finance (NTSA now integrates with some lenders), and whether it has been reported stolen. Go to ntsa.go.ke → TIMS → Vehicle Search, or use the eCitizen portal.
Inspection booking: Book a vehicle inspection appointment at your nearest NTSA inspection centre. Required annually for commercial vehicles; every two years for private vehicles above a certain age.
Driving licence renewal: Also handled via eCitizen (see our separate guide on licence renewal).
For a brand-new vehicle from a dealer, the dealer typically handles initial registration as part of the sale. Confirm this with your dealer — you should receive your logbook within 30–60 days of purchase. If the dealer has not registered the vehicle, you can initiate the registration yourself through eCitizen.
Some NTSA services require in-person attendance: - First-time driving licence applicants (must sit the theoretical and practical tests at an NTSA-approved school) - Physical inspection of imported vehicles - Collection of number plates for newly registered vehicles
Driving an unregistered vehicle is an offence. Failing to transfer ownership after purchase means the former owner remains legally liable for the vehicle — a risk for both buyer and seller. Always complete the transfer within 30 days of purchase.
NTSA services are accessible both through ntsa.go.ke (TIMS) and through ecitizen.go.ke. Both pull from the same database. eCitizen is the more unified experience; TIMS has some functions that aren't yet on eCitizen.
Mycrea builds fleet management tools for Kenyan companies — tracking vehicle registration, inspection dates, and driver compliance in one dashboard. Talk to us about your fleet needs.
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