How to Apply for New Number Plate in Kenya

Getting a new license plate in Kenya is a key step in registering a vehicle. This applies to new cars and cases where an existing plate needs to be replaced due to damage, loss, or theft.

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) manages the issuing of new license plates.

This guide addresses the most important questions about applying for a new license plate, including what documents you’ll need and what steps you should take.

1What is a License Plate and Why is it Important?

2What are the Types of Number Plates in Kenya?

3What Papers Do I Need to Get a New Number Plate?

4How Do You Apply for a New Number Plate?

5How Much Does it Cost to Apply for a New Number Plate in Kenya?

6What Are Personalized Number Plates and How Can I Apply for One?

7How Can I Get a New Number Plate if Mine is Lost or Stolen?

8How Long Do You Wait to Get a New Number Plate in Kenya?

9Frequently Asked Questions

10Final Thought

11Reference

12Recommendations

Read: How to Easily Open a Nigerian Domiciliary Account Online

What is a License Plate and Why is it Important?

A number plate is the official mark that connects your vehicle to you, its owner. It is a unique identifier for your vehicle given by the NTSA.

It has key details like the registration number, which helps officials monitor vehicles for various purposes, including checking ownership, investigating vehicle crimes, and monitoring traffic.

If you don’t have a valid number plate, your vehicle isn’t allowed on public roads in Kenya. If you fail to show a proper number plate, you might face big fines, have your vehicle taken away, and run into legal trouble.

So, getting the right number plate when you register a vehicle or need to replace a damaged one is essential.

What are the Types of Number Plates in Kenya?

In Kenya, there are several types of number plates, each tied to a specific vehicle category and use. Before you start your application, you need to know which type fits your situation.

White Plates with Black Lettering: These show up most often and go on -owned vehicles.

Yellow Plates with Black Lettering: Taxis, buses, and trucks use these plates for commercial purposes.

Red Plates with White Lettering: Diplomatic vehicles get these plates.

Red Plates with Black Lettering: Government vehicles sport these plates.

Blue Plates with White Lettering: Vehicles owned by international organizations and foreign missions carry these plates.

What Papers Do I Need to Get a New Number Plate?

When you’re getting a new number plate, you need several important papers ready to make the process go smoothly.

The NTSA asks for these documents to check if you own the car and if it follows the rules. Here’s what you’ll need:

Copy of the Logbook: This shows you own the car.

Copy of ID/Passport: If you’re applying as an individual, bring your national ID or passport. You need to bring company-owned vehicles, the certificate of incorporation, and the KRA PIN certificate.

Police Abstract: If you’re replacing a plate because someone stole it or you lost it, you need to bring a police report about what happened.

Payment Receipt: Evidence showing you’ve paid the fees needed for the new number plate.

Sometimes, you might need extra papers when transferring ownership or registering a car from another country. These could include a customs entry form or a document showing you’ve imported the vehicle (for cars from other countries).

How Do You Apply for a New Number Plate?

Getting a new number plate in Kenya isn’t too hard if you know what to do. You can do it online through the NTSA’s Transport Integrated Management System (TIMS). Here’s a guide to help you through it:

Step 1: Set Up an NTSA TIMS Account

If you don’t have an NTSA TIMS account, you need to create one. Visit the NTSA TIMS website and follow the steps to set one up. You’ll need your ID number, KRA PIN, and a working mobile number.

Step 2: Log into TIMS

After you set up your account, log into TIMS with your ID and password. From this point, you can access all NTSA services.

Step 3: Select ‘Apply for New Number Plate’

On the TIMS dashboard, go to the section for vehicle registration services and choose the option to apply for a new number plate.

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

You’ll need to upload scanned copies of the documents you need, such as the logbook, ID, and police abstract (if applicable). Make sure the documents are easy to read and see.

Step 5: Pay the Fees You Have To

After you provide all the necessary details, go ahead and pay. A new standard plate costs Ksh 2,500, and a personalized plate costs Ksh 7,500. You can pay using M-Pesa or send money from your bank.

Step 6: Pick Up the Number Plate

After you submit your application, NTSA will let you know when your new number plate is ready. You can pick it up at an NTSA office or have it delivered (if that’s an option where you live).

How Much Does it Cost to Apply for a New Number Plate in Kenya?

In 2024, here’s what you’ll pay to apply for a new number plate in Kenya:

Standard Number Plate: Ksh 2,500.

Replacement Plate (if yours is lost or stolen): Ksh 2,500.

Personalized Number Plate: Ksh 7,500.

Prices can change, so it’s smart to check the NTSA website for the latest rates before you apply.

What Are Personalized Number Plates and How Can I Apply for One?

Personalized number plates show a unique mix of characters that the vehicle owner picks. People and companies often use these plates to add their flair to their vehicles.

To get a personalized plate, follow these steps:

Sign in to your NTSA TIMS account.
Go to the ‘Apply for Personalized Number Plate’ section.
Type in the number or character mix you want (make sure it follows NTSA rules).
Send in the papers you need, like your logbook and ID.
Pay Ksh 7,500.

When your plate is ready, NTSA will let you know to pick it up.

Custom number plates take longer to process, so you might need to wait a few weeks to collect them.

How Can I Get a New Number Plate if Mine is Lost or Stolen?

If you lose your number plate or someone steals it, you need to replace it immediately to avoid trouble with the law.

Driving without a proper number plate can result in punishments, the removal of your car, or fines. Getting a new plate when yours is lost or stolen is a lot like applying for your first one.

Here’s what to do to get a new number plate if yours is lost or stolen:

Tell the police about the theft or loss: Go to the police station to report it and get a police abstract. You need this paper to apply for a replacement.

Sign in to NTSA TIMS: Open your TIMS account and pick ‘Replace Number Plate’ from the list of vehicle services.
Add your papers: You must add your logbook ID and the police abstract.
Pay the fee: To replace a lost or stolen number plate, you’ll pay Ksh 2,500.
Get your new number plate: They’ll let you know when your replacement plate is ready.

How Long Do You Wait to Get a New Number Plate in Kenya?

The time it takes to process a new number plate depends on several factors, such as the kind of plate you want and how busy NTSA is.

If you’re after a regular plate, you can expect to wait about 7-14 work days. But if your heart is set on a personalized plate, you’ll need more patience – it could take 4-6 weeks.

Remember, it’s best to apply for your plate right after you buy a new car or if your old one gets stolen or lost. This way, you avoid any legal headaches or fines.

Frequently Asked Questions

When I apply for new number plates, do I have to turn in my old ones?

If you’re getting replacement plates due to damage or loss, you typically don’t have to return them; however, checking with NTSA for specific instructions is good practice.

Can I customize my new number plate?

Well, not in Kenya, where customization is only allowed on special series or personalized plates which cost extra and must be within certain guidelines set by NTSA.

What if my new number plate is wrong?

If your new number plate is mistakenly written, do not hesitate to inform the NTSA immediately with your receipt and details. They will make the necessary corrections quickly and at no extra cost.

Final Thought

Getting new license plates in Kenya is necessary for all car owners, whether registering a new vehicle or replacing plates that are gone or broken.

You can apply online from anywhere on their website, making the process much easier.

If you follow this guide, you should have no trouble applying for new plates, whether standard or custom-made.

Please make sure you have all your papers ready, pay on time, and monitor the progress of your application.

Do you have any questions or want to know more? Drop a comment below! Also, keep up with us on social media for more helpful tips and news. You can find us here:

Facebook: Silicon Africa
Instagram: Siliconafricatech
Twitter: @siliconafritech.

Reference

ignitioncoverskenya.com – How to Apply For The New Number Plate in Kenya [Digital Number Plate]
scepturempire.com –How to Apply For The New Number Plate in Kenya [Digital Number Plate]
tuko.co.ke – How to apply for the new number plates in Kenya (with applicable fees)