In Kenya, all motor vehicles—whether civilian, parastatal, diplomatic, government, or non-government—must be registered with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA). This registration process ensures that a permanent record of the vehicle is stored on NTSA’s platform, even when ownership changes hands.
Previously, vehicle searches were conducted on the Transport Integrated Management System (TIMS) platform, but as part of the Kenyan government’s drive to centralize services, this functionality has been moved to the eCitizen portal. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to conduct a motor vehicle search using the NTSA service on the eCitizen platform.
What Is a Motor Vehicle Search?
A motor vehicle search, also known as a “Copy of Records” search, provides comprehensive information about a vehicle. For a fee of Ksh 550, you can obtain detailed information, such as:
- Chassis and engine number
- Registered owner’s details
- Make and model of the vehicle
- Year of manufacture
- Date of registration
- Caveat status (if the vehicle has any legal encumbrances)
This document is essential for anyone looking to verify the ownership or history of a vehicle, whether you are purchasing a used car or simply ensuring the legitimacy of a vehicle’s details.
How to Conduct a Vehicle Search on eCitizen
To access a motor vehicle’s record through eCitizen, follow these simple steps:
- Log into Your eCitizen Account
- Visit the eCitizen portal and sign in using your credentials. If you do not have an account, you will need to create one by registering with your ID number, phone number, and email address.
- Select the New NTSA Service Portal
- Once logged in, navigate to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) services. This will take you to a new NTSA interface under eCitizen.
- Choose “Motor Vehicle Copy of Records” Service
- From the available services, select “Motor Vehicle Copy of Records.”
- Enter the Vehicle Registration or Chassis Number
- You will be prompted to enter the vehicle’s registration number (e.g., KAA 123A) or chassis number, depending on which details you have.
- Submit and Choose Payment Method
- After entering the details, select your preferred payment method. You can pay via mobile money (e.g., M-Pesa), debit/credit card, or bank transfer. The fee for the search is Ksh 550.
- Complete Payment and Check Application History
- Once the payment is confirmed, go to the “Application History” section. You will be able to view and download the motor vehicle’s copy of records from here.
What Information Is Included in a Motor Vehicle Copy of Records?
The vehicle copy of records you receive provides detailed information about the vehicle. This includes:
- Chassis and engine number: Critical for verifying that the engine and chassis are consistent with the original manufacturer specifications and registration.
- Registered owner: The name of the individual or entity listed as the vehicle’s owner.
- Make and model: Information about the vehicle’s brand and model, helping confirm its authenticity.
- Year of manufacture: This shows when the vehicle was built, which is crucial for buyers or sellers.
- Date of registration: The exact date the vehicle was registered in Kenya, giving insight into its history.
- Caveat status: Indicates if the vehicle is under any legal or financial restrictions, such as being used as collateral for a loan.
Importance of Conducting a Vehicle Search
Conducting a vehicle search is highly recommended, especially when buying a used car. It helps ensure that the vehicle you are purchasing is legitimate and free of any legal disputes. Here are some key reasons to conduct a motor vehicle search:
- Verify ownership: Confirm the registered owner of the vehicle to avoid fraudulent transactions.
- Check for legal issues: Ensure that there are no outstanding caveats or legal claims against the vehicle.
- Confirm vehicle details: Ensure the vehicle’s details (chassis number, engine number, make, and model) match the records, preventing scams.
- Peace of mind: Whether buying, selling, or transferring ownership, having accurate vehicle records prevents complications in future transactions.
Benefits of Using eCitizen for Vehicle Searches
- Convenience: The eCitizen platform consolidates government services, making it easier to access NTSA services from anywhere.
- Speed: Feedback from the vehicle search is immediate, and you can download the records instantly.
- Security: With secure payment options and access to accurate government data, eCitizen ensures the information you receive is legitimate.
- 24/7 Availability: Unlike traditional manual searches, the eCitizen platform is available around the clock, allowing users to conduct vehicle searches at their convenience.
Additional Services Offered by NTSA on eCitizen
In addition to motor vehicle searches, the NTSA service on eCitizen provides several other important services, including:
- Motor Vehicle Registration: New vehicle registration for both private and commercial vehicles.
- Transfer of Ownership: When buying or selling a vehicle, this service allows you to transfer ownership to the new owner.
- Driving License Renewal: You can renew your driving license through the portal, making it convenient for drivers across Kenya.
- Road Service License: Necessary for vehicles used in public transportation.
These services are crucial for streamlining various aspects of vehicle ownership and management, making NTSA’s partnership with eCitizen a significant leap toward better service delivery in Kenya.
Conducting a motor vehicle search through the NTSA service on eCitizen is an essential process for anyone involved in vehicle transactions in Kenya. It provides critical details about a vehicle’s history and ownership, helping buyers and sellers make informed decisions. With just a few clicks and a small fee, you can access accurate, up-to-date information, ensuring transparency and avoiding fraudulent dealings. For more vehicle-related services, the NTSA platform on eCitizen continues to expand, offering a seamless experience for users across the country.
