How to transfer a car logbook on NTSA eCitizen

Last updated · Cada car guides

Car ownership in Kenya is transferred online on the NTSA service on eCitizen. The seller logs in, opens the vehicle, chooses transfer of ownership, enters the buyer's ID or KRA PIN and pays the transfer fee; the buyer then logs into their own eCitizen account and accepts the transfer. NTSA approves it and issues the logbook in the buyer's name. By law the seller must notify NTSA within 7 days of the sale, and the buyer may not use the car for more than 14 days without being registered.

Key facts
WhereNTSA service on eCitizen (the old TIMS system moved there)
Who starts itThe registered owner (seller)
Who completes itThe buyer accepts in their own eCitizen account
You needBoth parties' eCitizen accounts, ID and KRA PIN
FeeShown on eCitizen at payment; it varies with engine size
Legal deadlinesSeller notifies within 7 days; buyer registered within 14 days

Seller's steps

  1. Log in to eCitizen and open the NTSA service.
  2. Select the vehicle and choose transfer of ownership.
  3. Enter the buyer's details (ID or KRA PIN) and the mileage.
  4. Pay the transfer fee shown.

Buyer's steps

  1. Log in to your own eCitizen account and open the NTSA service.
  2. Find the pending transfer and accept it.
  3. Wait for NTSA's approval and collect or receive the logbook in your name.

If the car has a loan on it

If the NTSA record lists a financier, the lender must discharge its interest before the transfer can complete. Ask the seller for the lender's discharge letter, or pay the lender directly against a written settlement figure.

Common questions

What if the seller has died or cannot be found?

The Traffic Act lets NTSA register the new owner where the registered owner has died, left Kenya, cannot be traced or refuses to comply. Expect to provide supporting documents such as court or succession papers.

Is a sale agreement enough to prove I own the car?

No. Under the Traffic Act the registered owner is presumed to be the owner until proved otherwise, so complete the NTSA transfer.

On Cada

Sources

  1. eCitizen: NTSA services (motor vehicle search, transfer, registration)
  2. NTSA: National Transport and Safety Authority
  3. Kenya Law: Traffic Act (Cap. 403)

General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules and fees change; confirm with the authority named in the sources before you pay.