📘Chapter 7: Registering Your Imported Car in Kenya
📘Chapter 7: Registering Your Imported Car in Kenya
You’ve cleared your car at the Port of Mombasa — congratulations! But it’s not ready for Kenyan roads just yet. This chapter breaks down the final steps: how to register, get number plates, insurance, and comply with NTSA and KRA requirements before you legally drive.
7.1 🚗 Why Registration is Mandatory
Every vehicle on Kenyan roads must be:
-
Registered with NTSA (National Transport and Safety Authority)
-
Issued with a logbook
-
Assigned Kenyan number plates
-
Entered into the Transport Integrated Management System (TIMS)
Driving an unregistered car is illegal and can result in heavy penalties or even seizure.
7.2 📋 Documents Required for Registration
You’ll need to upload or present the following:
| Document | Where It Comes From |
|---|---|
| KRA PIN Certificate | Kenya Revenue Authority |
| Original Foreign Logbook | Country of export |
| Valid Import Declaration Form (IDF) | KRA system |
| Clean Inspection Certificate (JEVIC) | Japan, UK, or UAE inspection agency |
| Original Commercial Invoice | From seller/exporter |
| Bill of Lading (BoL) | From shipping company |
| Customs Clearance Certificate (Form C63) | Issued by KRA |
| National ID / Passport (for individual) | Kenyan citizen or resident |
7.3 🛠️ Step-by-Step Vehicle Registration via NTSA TIMS
You must use the NTSA TIMS portal for online registration. Here's the process:
-
Login/Register on TIMS
-
Use your ID Serial Number, Mother’s Maiden Name, and KRA PIN.
-
-
Apply for Vehicle Registration
-
Go to "Vehicle Registration > New Import."
-
-
Upload Required Documents
-
Scan and attach all required files in PDF/JPG format.
-
-
Pay Registration Fees
-
Use mobile money or eCitizen wallet. Cost breakdown below.
-
-
Await NTSA Approval
-
Your documents are reviewed for compliance.
-
-
Receive Logbook & Number Plates
-
Plates can be collected from NTSA centers or posted.
-
7.4 💸 Cost Breakdown of Registration in Kenya
| Item | Estimated Cost (KES) |
|---|---|
| Registration Fee | 2,000 – 3,000 |
| Logbook Fee | 500 |
| Number Plates (Set) | 1,200 – 1,500 |
| Advance Tax (Commercial use) | 2,400 – 5,000 |
| SMS Notification Fee | 50 |
| Total | ~KSh 4,000 – 7,000+ |
Note: Higher fees apply for commercial or PSV vehicles.
7.5 🔍 NTSA Inspection (If Applicable)
If your car is more than 4 years old, or flagged for verification:
-
You may be required to book a physical inspection appointment with NTSA.
-
Inspection checks include:
-
Chassis integrity
-
Engine Number
-
Lights & safety systems
-
Mileage tampering
-
Fee: KSh 1,000 – 1,500
Duration: ~1 hour
7.6 🛡️ Insurance Before You Hit the Road
Before you legally drive, get at least third-party insurance from a licensed Kenyan insurer. Here’s a comparison:
| Insurance Type | What It Covers | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Third Party Only | Damage/injury to others | KSh 5,000 – 10,000 |
| Third Party Fire/Theft | + Theft and Fire | KSh 10,000 – 20,000 |
| Comprehensive | + Your car’s damage (accidents, theft) | 3% – 4% of vehicle value |
Pro Tip: Use aggregator apps like mTek, Bima, or consult local brokers for discounts.
7.7 🔄 Final Checklist Before You Drive
| ✅ Task | 🕓 Status |
|---|---|
| Cleared from Mombasa Port | ✔️ |
| Registered on NTSA TIMS | ✔️ |
| Paid for registration & plates | ✔️ |
| Received number plates | ✔️ |
| Logbook issued by NTSA | ✔️ |
| Insurance obtained | ✔️ |
| Road-ready & legal in Kenya | 🚘✅ |
Comments