How to Transfer Vehicle Ownership in Kenya via NTSA TIMS (2025 Guide)

Purchasing a motor vehicle is a significant investment, and once you’ve fully paid for it, the next crucial step is to transfer vehicle ownership to your name or another preferred owner.

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has streamlined this process, making it fully digital through the Transport Integrated Management System (TIMS).

Gone are the days of queuing at Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) offices or dealing with brokers who exploited vehicle buyers. Today, the process is efficient, transparent, and accessible online.

Step-by-Step Guide to Vehicle Ownership Transfer in Kenya

To successfully transfer ownership of a motor vehicle in Kenya, both the seller and buyer must have an NTSA TIMS account. Here’s how to complete the transfer:

Step 1: Seller Initiates Transfer on NTSA TIMS

1. Log in to the NTSA TIMS portal.
2. Navigate to Vehicle Registration > Vehicle Transfer.
3. Enter the buyer’s details (National ID or Company PIN) and proceed.
4. Upload a copy of the logbook.
5. Submit the transfer request.
6. The buyer will receive a notification to accept the transfer.

Step 2: Buyer Accepts Ownership Transfer

1. Log in to the NTSA TIMS portal.
2. Go to Vehicle Registration > Vehicle Transfer.
3. Review and confirm the seller’s details.
4. Accept the transfer request.
5. Pay the applicable logbook transfer fees (see charges below).

Once the buyer completes these steps, NTSA will process the transfer and issue a new logbook within three (3) business days.

NTSA Logbook Transfer Fees in Kenya (2025)

The cost of transferring a vehicle depends on its engine capacity. Below are the updated charges:

Vehicle Engine Capacity (CC)	Transfer Fee (KES)
Not exceeding 1,000 CC	1,660
1,001 – 1,200 CC	1,890
1,201 – 1,500 CC	2,065
1,501 – 1,700 CC	2,410
1,701 – 2,000 CC	2,695
2,001 – 2,500 CC	3,845
2,501 – 3,000 CC	5,055
Above 3,001 CC	5,915
Trailer (less than 4 wheels)	1,030
Trailer (more than 4 wheels)	1,890
Tractor	1,030

(Note: Charges are subject to change based on NTSA updates.)

How Long Does NTSA Logbook Transfer Take?

Once the buyer accepts the transfer and pays the required fee, NTSA processes the new logbook within three working days. The new logbook will be available for collection at your designated NTSA office.

Final Thoughts

Transferring vehicle ownership in Kenya is now fast, secure, and fully online through NTSA TIMS. Ensure you and the seller have TIMS accounts to complete the process smoothly. Always verify vehicle details before accepting a transfer to avoid fraud.

For more information, visit the official NTSA website or check the latest updates on the NTSA TIMS portal.

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