Book a motor vehicle safety inspection
From: Government of Kenya (public information)
Published 2 June 2026 · Last updated 2 June 2026
Find out how to schedule a mandatory motor vehicle safety inspection with the NTSA. This guide covers booking timelines, appointment slots, inspection fees, and legal requirements for commercial and private vehicles.
Warning This is an independent guide — not a government website. Never share passwords or OTPs with agents. Only pay through official portals. Scams and fake websites
No direct application link is listed yet. Try eCitizen or contact government.
Quick facts
- Processing time
- Same-day physical test (The official inspection report updates on your dashboard within 24 hours)
- Base cost
- From Ksh 1,050 to Ksh 4,650 depending on vehicle class
- How to apply
- Hybrid (Online form and physical attendance required)
Fees and times can change. Confirm on the official site before you pay.
Before you start
- The vehicle record must be listed under your active personal or corporate eCitizen account.
- The vehicle's mechanical, braking, and lighting systems must be fully operational before arriving at the inspection lane.
Documents you need
- Your national identity card number.
- A printed copy of the NTSA inspection booking booking invoice and receipt.
- The vehicle's physical or electronic Logbook.
Fees and charges
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Safety Inspection Booking (Motorcycles and Three-Wheelers) | Ksh 1,000 |
| Safety Inspection Booking (Vehicles under 3000cc) | Ksh 2,000 |
| Safety Inspection Booking (Vehicles over 3000cc, Trucks & Buses) | Ksh 3,500 |
| Safety Inspection Booking (Articulated Trucks / Heavy Trailers) | Ksh 4,600 |
| eCitizen Portal Convenience Charge | Ksh 50 |
Office visits
- Physical roadworthiness evaluation (covering emissions, speed governors, reflective tape, braking distance, and suspension integrity). — You must take the vehicle to your selected regional NTSA Motor Vehicle Inspection Center (e.g., Likoni Road Inspection Center in Nairobi, Thika Inspection Station, or regional hubs in Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret, and other major towns).
You may also use a Huduma Centre where the service is offered.
Questions
What happens if my vehicle fails the safety inspection?
If your vehicle fails, the examiner will issue a rejection report highlighting the mechanical faults. You have exactly 14 days to repair the listed faults and return to the same center for a cheap retest. If you exceed 14 days, you must pay the full inspection fee again.
Can I drive my commercial vehicle while waiting for a retest appointment?
No. Operating a commercial vehicle that has a failed or expired inspection certificate is illegal under the Traffic Act. You should only drive it directly to a garage or back to the NTSA testing center.