Mwash Cyber

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) in Kenya mandates periodic vehicle inspections to ensure roadworthiness, safety, and compliance with traffic regulations.

Whether you’re a private vehicle owner or manage a fleet of public service vehicles (PSVs), knowing what to bring to your NTSA inspection can make the process smoother and more efficient. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the essentials you need:

1. Vehicle Documents

• Original Logbook: Proof of vehicle ownership is fundamental. This document shows that you are the registered owner of the vehicle or have permission from the owner to present the vehicle for inspection.
• Valid Insurance Certificate: Your vehicle must be insured. Bring the original copy of your insurance certificate to verify that your vehicle is covered against third-party liabilities at least.
• Driver’s License: Present your valid driver’s license, as the inspection might require you to drive the vehicle during the assessment.

2. Proof of Payment

• NTSA Inspection Fee Receipt: You need to have paid the inspection fee in advance. This can be done online through the NTSA’s ecitizen’s portal. Carry the receipt or download it from your NTSA account as proof of payment.

3. The Vehicle

• Vehicle in Good Condition: Ensure your vehicle is in roadworthy condition. This includes:
  • Working Lights: All lights (headlights, brake lights, indicators) should be functioning.
  • Brakes: Braking system should be in good repair.
  • Tires: Tires should have adequate tread and no visible damage.
  • Safety Belts: All seat belts must be operational.
• Vehicle Cleanliness: While not officially required, presenting a clean vehicle can make the inspection process quicker and might reflect well on your maintenance habits.

4. Safety Equipment

• Fire Extinguisher: For PSVs and commercial vehicles, a fire extinguisher is mandatory.
• First Aid Kit: Similarly, having a first aid kit can be a requirement for some vehicle categories.

5. Additional Items for Commercial Vehicles

• Speed Limiter: If your vehicle requires one, ensure it’s fitted and functioning according to NTSA standards.
• Tax Compliance: For PSVs, ensure you’ve paid the advance tax as part of the inspection prerequisites.

6. Inspection Booking Confirmation

• Booking Slip: If you’ve booked your inspection slot online, either print or have a digital copy of your booking confirmation. This helps to avoid confusion at the inspection center.

Inspection Day Tips:

• Arrive Early: Booking an inspection slot means you have a specific time, but arriving early can give you a buffer in case of unexpected delays.
• Physical Presence: The owner or a representative must be present during the inspection.
• Be Prepared for a Re-inspection: If your vehicle fails inspection, you’ll have a limited time (usually 13 days in Kenya) to correct the issues and get re-inspected without extra charge.

Conclusion

Preparing for your NTSA vehicle inspection is about ensuring you have all necessary documents, your vehicle is in good repair, and you’ve complied with all payment and booking requirements. By gathering these items and understanding the process, you’ll not only expedite the inspection but also contribute to safer roads in Kenya. Remember, the NTSA’s goal is to maintain a sustainable and safe road transport system, and your cooperation through thorough preparation plays a significant role in achieving that.