In Kenya, transferring ownership of a second-hand motor vehicle is a critical process governed by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA). Whether you’re buying or selling a used car, motorcycle, trailer, or tractor, understanding the NTSA vehicle transfer charges, procedures, and requirements is essential to ensure a smooth and legally compliant transaction. With the NTSA’s Transport Integrated Management System (TIMS) streamlining the process through the eCitizen platform, transferring a logbook has become more efficient, but it still requires careful attention to detail. This comprehensive guide explores the NTSA charges for second-hand motor vehicle transfers in 2025, including vehicle rating capacity transfer fees, the eSticker one-off fee, and the step-by-step process to complete the transfer. We’ll also address common challenges, legal requirements, and practical tips for Kenyan motorists.
Why Vehicle Transfer Matters in Kenya
The process of transferring vehicle ownership in Kenya is not just a bureaucratic formality—it’s a legal necessity under the Traffic Act (CAP 403). When you purchase a second-hand vehicle, the logbook must be updated to reflect the new owner’s details within 14 days of the transaction. Failure to do so can lead to legal complications, such as liability for accidents or fines tied to the previous owner. The NTSA, established under Act Number 33 of 2012, oversees this process to ensure road safety, compliance, and accurate vehicle records.
For Kenyans, whether in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, or rural areas, the vehicle transfer process is a common experience when buying used cars from dealers, private sellers, or through inheritance. With the rising popularity of second-hand vehicles due to their affordability, understanding the NTSA logbook transfer charges and procedures is more relevant than ever in 2025.
NTSA Vehicle Transfer Charges in 2025
The cost of transferring a second-hand motor vehicle in Kenya depends on the vehicle’s engine capacity (measured in cubic centimeters, or cc) or type (e.g., trailer or tractor). Additionally, the NTSA introduced a one-off eSticker fee to enhance vehicle identification and compliance. Below is the detailed fee structure for 2025, as provided:
| Vehicle Rating Capacity | Transfer Fee (Kshs) | eSticker One-Off Fee (Kshs) |
|---|---|---|
| 1000cc & below | 2,210 | 750 |
| 1001–1200cc | 2,440 | 750 |
| 1201–1500cc | 2,615 | 750 |
| 1501–1700cc | 2,960 | 750 |
| 1701–2000cc | 3,245 | 750 |
| 2001–2500cc | 4,395 | 750 |
| 2501–3000cc | 5,505 | 750 |
| 3001cc and above | 6,465 | 750 |
| Trailer (less than 4 wheels) | 1,580 | 750 |
| Trailer (4 wheels or more) | 2,240 | 750 |
| Tractor | 1,580 | 750 |
Key Notes on NTSA Charges
- Transfer Fee: This fee covers the administrative cost of updating the vehicle’s records in the NTSA’s TIMS system. It varies based on the engine capacity or vehicle type, reflecting the operational costs associated with processing.
- eSticker One-Off Fee: The Ksh 750 eSticker fee is a mandatory charge for all vehicles undergoing transfer. The eSticker is a digital identification tool that includes details like the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), chassis number, and owner information, enhancing traceability and compliance.
- Payment Methods: Fees can be paid via M-Pesa, credit/debit cards, or at designated banks like Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) through the eCitizen platform.
- Additional Costs: In some cases, a vehicle inspection fee of approximately Ksh 1,050 may apply, especially for forced transfers or when verifying vehicle details.
These charges reflect the latest updates for 2025, but it’s worth noting that the NTSA has proposed significant fee hikes in recent years to address budget deficits. For instance, a 2023 proposal suggested increasing transfer fees for vehicles not exceeding 1000cc from Ksh 1,660 to Ksh 10,000—a potential 500% increase. While these proposals have not been fully implemented as of 2025, motorists should stay updated via the NTSA website (ntsa.go.ke) for any changes.
Step-by-Step Guide to NTSA Vehicle Transfer
The NTSA has digitized the vehicle transfer process through the eCitizen portal, making it more accessible than the manual processes of the past, which required visiting offices like Times Tower in Nairobi or Custom House in Mombasa. Below is a detailed guide to transferring a second-hand motor vehicle in 2025.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Both the seller and buyer must prepare the following documents:
- Original Logbook: A clear, colored PDF scan of the logbook, with the first vacant “change” section filled with the buyer’s and seller’s details, including names, signatures, and addresses.
- National ID: Copies of both the buyer’s and seller’s Kenyan ID cards.
- KRA PIN Certificates: Both parties must provide their Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PINs for tax and verification purposes.
- Sale Agreement: A document specifying the vehicle’s details (make, model, chassis number, engine number) and the terms of the sale.
- Form C (NTSA Motor Vehicle Transfer Form): While this form was previously obtained physically, it’s now integrated into the online TIMS system but may still be required in some cases, downloadable from the NTSA website.
Step 2: Create and Activate eCitizen Accounts
- Both the seller and buyer must have active eCitizen accounts with NTSA services enabled.
- Enable SMS notifications on the TIMS platform for security verification codes during the transfer process.
- If you don’t have an eCitizen account, visit accounts.ecitizen.go.ke to create one.
Step 3: Initiate the Transfer (Seller’s Role)
- Log in to your eCitizen account and navigate to the NTSA service portal (new).
- Select the vehicle to be transferred from the list of registered vehicles under your name.
- Go to Motor Vehicle Services > Vehicle Transfer > Apply.
- Upload a clear, colored PDF scan of the original logbook.
- Enter the buyer’s details, including their KRA PIN, which will auto-populate their information.
- Confirm the vehicle’s details (e.g., registration number, chassis number, and whether it’s written off—select “No” for functional vehicles).
- Submit the application and pay the transfer fee and eSticker fee via M-Pesa, card, or bank payment.
Step 4: Accept the Transfer (Buyer’s Role)
- The buyer receives a notification on their eCitizen account under the NTSA dashboard.
- Log in, go to Notifications, and select Accept for the transfer request.
- Verify the vehicle details (registration number, chassis number, ownership type).
- Provide collection details, including the preferred NTSA office for picking up the new logbook and the ID of the authorized person to collect it.
- Submit the acceptance.
Step 5: Vehicle Inspection (If Required)
- In some cases, NTSA may require a physical inspection to verify the vehicle’s details (e.g., engine and chassis numbers). This is common for forced transfers or vehicles with discrepancies.
- Book an inspection slot via the eCitizen portal, selecting a convenient NTSA-approved inspection center.
- Pay the inspection fee (Ksh 1,050) if applicable.
Step 6: Collect the New Logbook
- NTSA processes the transfer within 3 working days and notifies both parties when the new logbook is ready for collection.
- The buyer (or an authorized person with the buyer’s ID) collects the logbook from the selected NTSA office.
Who Pays the NTSA Transfer Fees?
A common question among Kenyan motorists is: Who pays the NTSA transfer fees—the buyer or seller? While Kenyan law doesn’t explicitly dictate this, common practice is for the buyer to cover the transfer fee and eSticker cost, as they are responsible for registering the vehicle in their name. However, this depends on the sale agreement. For example:
- The seller may agree to pay part or all of the fees to sweeten the deal, especially for high-value vehicles.
- Buyers should ensure all outstanding fines, taxes, or loans tied to the vehicle are cleared before the transfer, as these can delay the process.
To avoid disputes:
- Discuss and agree on fee responsibilities before finalizing the sale.
- Keep receipts and transfer confirmations for records.
- Verify the vehicle’s status (e.g., no caveats or police interest) via the NTSA portal before proceeding.
Challenges and Solutions in NTSA Vehicle Transfers
While the TIMS platform has simplified the process, challenges can still arise. Here are common issues and how to address them:
1. System Hitches
- Issue: In 2024, second-hand car dealers reported delays in logbook transfers due to NTSA’s migration to the eCitizen platform, affecting cash flows for dealers reliant on bank financing.
- Solution: Check the NTSA website or social media for updates on system status. If delays persist, contact NTSA via their helpline or visit a regional office.
2. Incomplete or Incorrect Documents
- Issue: Uploading defaced or unclear logbook scans can lead to rejection. Incorrect buyer details (e.g., wrong KRA PIN) can also stall the process.
- Solution: Ensure all documents are clear, accurate, and in the required format (PDF for logbooks). Double-check buyer details before submission.
3. Outstanding Fines or Caveats
- Issue: Vehicles with unpaid fines, loans, or police interest cannot be transferred until cleared.
- Solution: Conduct a vehicle search on the NTSA portal to verify the vehicle’s status before purchase. Sellers should clear all penalties beforehand.
4. Forced Transfers
- Issue: In cases like repossession, court auctions, or inheritance, a forced transfer may be needed without the seller’s consent. This requires additional documentation (e.g., court orders, auction papers).
- Solution: Follow the NTSA’s alternative transfer process on the eCitizen portal, ensuring all legal documents are submitted in a single PDF.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Transfer
To ensure a seamless NTSA vehicle transfer in 2025, consider these tips:
- Verify Ownership: Use the NTSA TIMS portal to confirm the seller is the registered owner and the vehicle has no encumbrances.
- Inspect the Vehicle: Have the car checked by a trusted mechanic or a third-party valuer like AA Kenya to confirm its condition and value.
- Secure Payment: Avoid paying the full amount until the transfer is initiated on the NTSA portal, as some buyers have reported issues with uncooperative sellers.
- Stay Updated: Monitor the NTSA website or platforms like ntsanews.co.ke for any changes to fees or procedures.
- Use Trusted Agents: If the process feels overwhelming, consider hiring NTSA-approved agents or cyber cafes offering eCitizen services, but beware of unscrupulous brokers.
The Role of the eSticker in Vehicle Compliance
The eSticker one-off fee of Ksh 750 is a relatively new addition to NTSA’s vehicle transfer process. Introduced to enhance vehicle identification, the eSticker contains critical details like the VIN, chassis number, and owner information. This digital tool helps NTSA combat vehicle theft, fraud, and non-compliance. For older vehicles, the eSticker replaces the third plate sticker, which served a similar purpose.
The eSticker is a one-time cost applied during the transfer process, regardless of the vehicle’s engine capacity or type. It’s a small but significant step toward modernizing Kenya’s vehicle registration system, aligning with global standards for road safety and traceability.
Looking Ahead: NTSA’s Proposed Fee Changes
In 2023, NTSA proposed significant fee increases to address a Ksh 2.37 billion budget deficit, including raising transfer fees for vehicles up to 1000cc from Ksh 1,660 to Ksh 10,000. While these changes have not been fully implemented as of 2025, they signal potential future adjustments. Motorists and dealers should stay vigilant, as higher fees could impact the cost of buying and selling second-hand vehicles.
Additionally, NTSA’s ongoing digitization efforts, such as integrating all services into the eCitizen platform, aim to improve efficiency but have occasionally caused disruptions, as seen in 2024 when dealers faced delays in logbook transfers. These challenges highlight the need for NTSA to balance modernization with reliable service delivery.
Transferring a second-hand motor vehicle in Kenya in 2025 is a straightforward yet critical process that requires careful attention to NTSA’s requirements, fees, and procedures. With transfer fees ranging from Ksh 1,580 to Ksh 6,465 based on vehicle rating capacity and a Ksh 750 eSticker one-off fee, understanding the costs upfront can help buyers and sellers plan effectively. By leveraging the eCitizen portal and ensuring all documents are in order, Kenyans can complete the process efficiently within 3 working days.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer in Nairobi or a seasoned car dealer in Mombasa, staying informed about NTSA vehicle transfer charges and best practices is key to avoiding delays and legal issues. For the latest updates, visit ntsa.go.ke or follow trusted platforms like ntsanews.co.ke. By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the NTSA logbook transfer process with confidence and ease.
