In Kenya, transferring ownership of a motor vehicle or motorcycle is an important legal process that must be completed as soon as a sale transaction is finalized. According to Kenyan law, the seller is required to initiate the vehicle transfer, and the buyer should receive a new logbook in their name within 14 days of the transfer.
With the introduction of the National Transport and Safety Authority’s (NTSA) enhanced online platform on the eCitizen portal, vehicle transfers have become easier and more efficient. The new NTSA portal provides a streamlined, step-by-step guide to applying for a motor vehicle transfer online, reducing the time and paperwork involved.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to transfer vehicle ownership using the NTSA’s new portal.
Step 1: Activating eCitizen Accounts
Before initiating the transfer process, both the buyer and the seller must have active eCitizen accounts. eCitizen is a centralized digital platform through which Kenyans access government services. Without an active account, neither party can proceed with the vehicle transfer.
Step 2: Seller Initiates the Transfer
Once the eCitizen accounts are activated, the seller must take the following steps:
- Log in to the eCitizen account – Visit eCitizen and log in using your credentials. Once logged in, navigate to the NTSA service portal on the dashboard.
- Select the Vehicle – On the NTSA service portal, identify the vehicle you want to transfer. Ensure that the vehicle details are correct before proceeding.
- Initiate the Transfer Process – Go to the motor vehicle service section, select the “Vehicle Transfer” option, and click ‘Apply’.
- Upload Logbook – The seller must upload a scanned copy of the original logbook in Portable Document Format (PDF). This document serves as proof of vehicle ownership.
- Enter Buyer’s Details – Provide the details of the buyer, ensuring all information is accurate to avoid delays in the process.
- Payment of Transfer Fees – After filling in the necessary information, the seller must pay the vehicle transfer fees. The amount payable depends on the engine capacity (CC rating) of the vehicle, which is usually between Ksh. 1,500 to Ksh. 2,000. Payment can be made via mobile money or credit card through the eCitizen portal.
- Consent Notification – Once the seller has submitted the transfer application, the buyer will receive a consent notification through the portal, asking them to accept or decline the transfer.
Step 3: Buyer’s Acceptance of Transfer
The buyer also plays an active role in completing the transfer process. Once the seller initiates the transfer, the buyer must:
- Log in to the eCitizen Account – The buyer should log into their eCitizen account and access the NTSA service portal, just like the seller.
- Accept Consent Notification – Upon logging in, the buyer will find a notification under the ‘Notifications’ tab regarding the pending vehicle transfer. The buyer must accept the transfer by clicking the “Accept” option.
- Fill Required Details – The buyer will be prompted to fill out additional details as required by NTSA. Ensure all information is accurate before proceeding.
- Submit for Approval – After previewing the information, the buyer needs to scroll down, tick the declaration box, and click ‘Submit’ to complete the process.
Step 4: NTSA Processing and Logbook Collection
Once the transfer application is successfully submitted by both parties, the NTSA will begin processing the new logbook. The good news is that the process is fast and efficient. According to NTSA, the new logbook can be ready within three working days.
The buyer will be notified once the logbook is processed, and they can collect it at their chosen NTSA collection center.
Cost of Vehicle Transfer
The transfer fees depend on the engine capacity (CC rating) of the vehicle. The approximate charges are:
- For vehicles with an engine capacity of up to 1200cc, the fee is Ksh. 1,500.
- For vehicles above 1200cc, the fee increases to Ksh. 2,000.
Motorcycles typically attract a lower transfer fee, which can range between Ksh. 500 and Ksh. 700, depending on the engine capacity.
Benefits of the New NTSA Portal
The new NTSA portal is designed to make the vehicle transfer process simpler and faster. Some key benefits include:
- Convenience – The entire process can be completed online from the comfort of your home or office, eliminating the need for in-person visits to NTSA offices.
- Faster Processing – With the new portal, the vehicle transfer and logbook issuance process is completed within three working days, compared to the longer durations previously experienced.
- Reduced Paperwork – The digital process minimizes the use of physical documents, making it more environmentally friendly and easier to track.
- Enhanced Transparency – Both buyer and seller are notified of every step in the process through the portal, ensuring transparency and accountability.
The new NTSA vehicle transfer process through the eCitizen portal has brought much-needed efficiency to an essential service in Kenya. By following the step-by-step process outlined above, Kenyans can transfer vehicle ownership easily and receive their new logbooks within a matter of days.
As the NTSA continues to enhance its digital services, Kenyans can expect more innovations aimed at simplifying vehicle registration and other transport-related services in the future.
Make sure both buyer and seller have their eCitizen accounts ready and ensure all necessary documents, including the original logbook, are scanned and available to complete the process seamlessly.
