Losing a number plate can be a stressful experience for any vehicle owner. In Kenya, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has streamlined the process of replacing lost number plates through the eCitizen portal, ensuring that vehicle owners can quickly and efficiently apply for replacements without the hassle of visiting NTSA offices. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a lost number plate using the eCitizen platform.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Lost Number Plate
To replace a lost number plate, follow these steps through the NTSA portal on eCitizen:
Step 1: Log Into Your eCitizen Account
- Visit the eCitizen portal (www.ecitizen.go.ke) and log into your account.
- If you don’t have an account yet, create one by registering using your National ID or Alien ID number.
Step 2: Access NTSA Services
- Once logged in, navigate to the NTSA service portal.
- Select the motor vehicle option and click on view to display the details of your registered vehicle.
Step 3: Apply for Reflective Plates
- In the menu under motor vehicle services, select apply for reflective plates.
- You will be prompted to choose the reason for application—in this case, select lost.
Step 4: Attach Required Documents
- Attach the necessary documents in PDF format. These may include:
- An official police abstract reporting the loss of the number plate.
- A copy of the vehicle’s logbook or proof of ownership.
- A valid form of identification (ID or passport).
Step 5: Pay and Submit
- After attaching the required documents, proceed to make payment through the eCitizen portal. The payment options are flexible, allowing you to pay via mobile money, bank, or credit card.
- Once the payment is successful, click submit to complete the application.
- You will receive a confirmation of your submission, and the NTSA will notify you via SMS when the replacement number plate is ready for collection.
Charges and Timeline
- The cost for applying for a replacement of a lost number plate may vary slightly depending on whether you are applying for a single plate or a pair.
- Single reflective number plate: Ksh 1,550
- Pair of reflective number plates: Ksh 3,050
- The replacement process takes approximately 7 working days, after which you will receive a notification when the plate is ready for pickup at your chosen NTSA office or Huduma Centre.
Importance of Reporting a Lost Number Plate
If you lose your number plate, it is crucial to report the loss to the nearest police station immediately. This prevents potential misuse of your vehicle’s identity for illegal activities, such as theft or traffic violations. Ensure that the police abstract you receive is uploaded during the online application process as it is an essential requirement for replacement.
Why Reflective Plates Matter
The new reflective plates introduced by the NTSA are more secure and include features that make them harder to duplicate. They are designed with tamper-proof features and are more visible, especially at night, improving road safety.
Losing a number plate doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal with NTSA’s efficient system through the eCitizen portal. The application process for replacing lost number plates is straightforward, with most steps completed online. Ensure you have all the required documents ready to make the process smooth. The shift to reflective plates also adds a layer of security, reducing the chances of fraud and misuse.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a swift replacement of your lost number plate, keeping your vehicle compliant with the law and safe on the road. For more information or updates, keep an eye on NTSA’s official channels or the eCitizen portal.
