NTSA to Begin Annual Inspection of Vehicles Over Four Years Old From July 1

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has announced that it will begin inspecting motor vehicles that are more than four years old from July 1, 2026, as part of efforts to enhance road safety and ensure compliance with the Traffic Act.

In a public notice issued on Friday, NTSA said owners of vehicles above four years from their recorded date of manufacture will be required to book annual inspections through the NTSA service portal available on the eCitizen platform.

The authority clarified, however, that enforcement of mandatory inspection for private motor vehicles will be communicated to the public at a later date.

“In implementation of Section 55 of the Traffic Act (Cap 403), the Authority shall conduct inspection of motor vehicles within NTSA centres from 1st July 2026,” the notice stated.

The agency also announced that inspections of school transport vehicles and commercial service vehicles will continue at NTSA inspection centres, urging operators to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and have valid inspection stickers.

School management and transport operators were reminded that all vehicles ferrying learners must meet the required safety standards, while owners of commercial service vehicles were directed to comply with inspection requirements before operating on Kenyan roads.

NTSA said law enforcement officers will verify the validity of inspection stickers using the free NTSA Mobile App.

The authority noted that enforcement of new requirements under the Traffic (School Transport) Rules, 2026, including the installation of reflectorised red stop mechanical signal arms and telematic systems in school vehicles, will be announced at a later date.

Similarly, implementation of provisions requiring telematic systems and underride protection devices for commercial service vehicles under the NTSA (Operations of Commercial Vehicles) Regulations, 2026, has been deferred pending further public communication.

NTSA further cautioned motorists against seeking inspection services from unauthorized providers, stating that it has not licensed any private entities to conduct motor vehicle inspections.

“NTSA has not yet licensed any private entity to offer motor vehicle inspection services,” the authority said.

The agency also reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on corruption, urging members of the public to report any individuals claiming they can influence or fast-track NTSA services through unofficial channels.

The notice was signed by NTSA Director General Eng. Nashon Kondiwa.