In Kenya, vehicle inspections are a mandatory process for ensuring that vehicles meet safety and roadworthiness standards. The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) is responsible for overseeing vehicle inspections. Whether you’re a private vehicle owner or a commercial vehicle operator, it’s essential to stay on top of your vehicle’s inspection status to comply with regulations. This guide will walk you through how to check the vehicle inspection status in Kenya, how to book an inspection, the cost of inspection, and more.
How to Check Vehicle Inspection Status in Kenya
The NTSA portal has made it much easier to check your vehicle’s inspection status without the need to visit government offices. You can check the status of your vehicle inspection—from the booking process to the final inspection report—on the NTSA self-service portal.
To get started, you need to download the NTSA app from the Google Play Store or visit the NTSA website. Here’s how you can check your vehicle’s inspection status:
Step 1: Create a TIMS Account
If you haven’t created an account with the Transport Integrated Management Systems (TIMS), follow these steps:
- Navigate to the TIMS link on the NTSA website.
- Click on the “Register” button on the right side under the Individuals tab.
- Enter your ID serial number (not the ID number), then click “Verify”.
- Enter your KRA pin and mother’s maiden name correctly.
- You’ll be asked to enter your occupation and mobile number.
- Request a verification code via SMS.
- Enter the verification code, and your account will be activated.
Once you’ve registered, you can log into your TIMS account and check your vehicle’s inspection status.
Step 2: Use the NTSA App or Website
- NTSA App: Download and install the NTSA app on your phone. Log in with your TIMS account to check your vehicle’s inspection status.
- SMS Code: You can also check the inspection status via SMS by sending the vehicle registration number to 22846.
Once you’ve logged in, you can easily view the status of your vehicle’s inspection, including whether it has passed or failed, and view the inspection report.
How to Book a Motor Vehicle Inspection
Booking a vehicle inspection is a straightforward process that you can complete online through the NTSA website or mobile app.
Booking Process:
- Go to ntsa.go.ke and sign in to your TIMS account.
- Click on the Motor Vehicle Inspection tab.
- If you’re a new customer, click “New Car Booking” and enter the vehicle registration number.
- Click on the “Annual Booking” bar and select the vehicle to be inspected.
- Choose your preferred payment method (Mpesa, Airtel Money, credit/debit cards, or cash at KCB Bank).
- After making the payment, you’ll receive a receipt and should print it out.
- Go back to complete the booking process and select a convenient inspection station.
- Choose a date and time for the inspection.
- Submit the information and print the inspection booking slip.
Once the inspection is complete, you can use the same process to check your vehicle’s inspection status.
Which Vehicles Are Taken for Inspection in Kenya?
The NTSA has specific regulations for vehicle inspections, focusing on various vehicle categories:
- Private Vehicles: Must undergo an inspection every two years if they are over four years old from the date of manufacture.
- Commercial Vehicles, PSVs, and School Buses: Must undergo a pre-registration inspection and an annual periodic inspection.
- Imported Vehicles: Private vehicles imported into Kenya are exempt from inspection for the first two years if they have already been inspected by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS).
- Modification Inspections: Any major modifications like changes in vehicle size, engine swaps, or structural alterations require a modification inspection.
- Salvage Vehicles: Vehicles classified as salvage must go through a salvage vehicle inspection.
Motor Vehicle Inspection Cost in Kenya
The cost of a vehicle inspection in Kenya varies depending on the engine capacity of the vehicle. The inspection fees are not fixed and are based on the engine size.
Inspection Charges:
- Motorcycles: Kshs. 1300
- Three-Wheelers & Vehicles Up to 3000cc: Kshs. 2600
- Vehicles Over 3000cc: Kshs. 3900
- Trailers Up to 5 Tons: Kshs. 2000
- Trailers Over 5 Tons: Kshs. 4600
- Heavy Commercial Vehicles Over 5 Tons: Kshs. 4600
Private vehicle owners can expect to pay between Kshs. 2000 and Kshs. 3500, depending on the engine capacity.
More About Vehicle Inspection in Kenya
The NTSA conducts thorough inspections to ensure that vehicles meet safety and emissions standards. Here’s what is typically checked during a motor vehicle inspection:
- Tires and wheels
- Exterior condition of the car
- Interior condition, including safety belts
- Headlights, brake lights, turn signals, reversing lights, and license plate lights
- Steering and suspension
- Engine
- Brakes and emergency brake test
- Exhaust system
- Windshield and wipers
- Battery and bumpers
- Fluid levels
How to Check Vehicle Inspection Report
Once your vehicle has been inspected, you can obtain the inspection report, which will indicate whether the vehicle passed or failed the inspection. To access the inspection report:
- Log in to your TIMS account on the NTSA website.
- Go to the Vehicle Inspection section.
- Download the inspection report, which will include details of the inspection results and any recommendations or required fixes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Can I Check My Vehicle Inspection Status Without the App?
If you don’t have the NTSA app, you can check your vehicle’s inspection status by sending your vehicle’s registration number to 22846 via SMS.
What Happens if My Vehicle Fails Inspection?
If your vehicle fails the inspection, you will be given a report outlining the areas that need improvement. You must address the issues and rebook for a follow-up inspection.
How Often Should I Inspect My Vehicle?
Private vehicles need an inspection every two years if they are over four years old. Commercial vehicles, PSVs, and school buses require annual inspections.
Conclusion
The NTSA portal has made it easy for vehicle owners in Kenya to check their vehicle’s inspection status, book an inspection, and get the necessary reports without visiting government offices. Whether you’re checking the status of a new vehicle inspection or replacing a failed inspection, the online process is quick and efficient.
Stay on top of your vehicle’s inspection status to ensure compliance with the regulations and to keep your vehicle safe and roadworthy.
Good luck, and drive safely!