🚗 NTSA Vehicle Inspection in Kenya: What You Need to Know
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) plays a key role in ensuring that vehicles on Kenyan roads are safe and roadworthy. One of the ways they do this is through vehicle inspections. Whether you own a private car, a commercial truck, or a public service vehicle (PSV), it’s important to understand the NTSA inspection process.
✅ Why Is Vehicle Inspection Important?
NTSA vehicle inspection ensures:
- Road safety for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians
- Environmental protection through emission control
- Compliance with legal requirements
- Insurance and ownership validation
- Prevention of accidents due to mechanical failure
📌 Who Must Take Their Vehicle for Inspection?
You must take your vehicle for NTSA inspection if:
- It’s a public service vehicle (PSV)
- It’s a commercial vehicle (like a truck or pickup)
- It’s over 4 years old (from the date of manufacture)
- You’ve been involved in an accident
- You’re changing the engine, color, or ownership
- It’s a used import that has just arrived in Kenya
🧾 Requirements for NTSA Inspection
Before visiting an inspection centre, make sure you have:
- A copy of your logbook
- A valid insurance certificate
- Your National ID or Passport
- TIMS account login credentials
- Booking receipt from NTSA TIMS portal
- Inspection fee paid via M-Pesa or eCitizen
💻 How to Book Vehicle Inspection Online
- Visit https://tims.ntsa.go.ke
- Log in using your ID and password
- Click on “Vehicle Inspection” and choose “Booking”
- Select your vehicle and preferred inspection center
- Pick a convenient date and time
- Make the payment and print your confirmation
💰 NTSA Vehicle Inspection Fees
| Vehicle Type | Fee (KES) |
|---|---|
| Motorbikes | 1,300 |
| Private Vehicles ≤ 3000cc | 2,000 |
| Private Vehicles > 3000cc | 2,500 |
| PSVs & Commercial Vehicles | 3,000 |
| Trailer (Light/Heavy) | 1,500–3,000 |
Fees may vary slightly by location or updates.
🔍 What Do Inspectors Check?
At the inspection centre, NTSA checks:
- Braking system
- Lights and indicators
- Wipers and mirrors
- Exhaust and emissions
- Tyres and suspension
- Speed governor (for PSVs)
- Vehicle chassis and structure
- Seat belts and dashboard warning lights
📅 How Often Do You Need Inspection?
| Vehicle Type | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Private Cars | Every 2 years |
| PSVs & Trucks | Every year |
| Imports | Before use |
| After accidents | Immediately |
📍 NTSA Inspection Centres
NTSA operates inspection centres across Kenya, including:
.GARISA
- Nairobi (Likoni Road, Industrial Area)
- Mombasa
- Kisumu
- Nakuru
- Eldoret
- Nyeri
- AND MORE
You choose your preferred centre during online booking.
🚦 Final Thoughts
Don’t wait until you get pulled over or fined. Make NTSA vehicle inspection a routine part of your vehicle’s maintenance. A roadworthy car is not just legal — it’s safer for everyone.
Need help booking your inspection or creating a TIMS account? Drop a comment or message and we’ll guide you step-by-step. GET HELPED BY PAUL MBUGUA +254725106822
