Legal & Regulatory Lifestyle

How to Transfer Motor Vehicle Ownership on NTSA TIMS in 2025

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Transferring motor vehicle ownership in Kenya is now seamless thanks to the NTSA TIMS (Transport Integrated Management System) portal. This guide provides a step-by-step process for transferring vehicle ownership, applying for duplicate logbooks, and understanding associated fees and timelines.


What Is the NTSA TIMS Ownership Transfer?

The NTSA TIMS system facilitates the digital transfer of motor vehicle ownership from the seller to the buyer. Both parties must have active TIMS accounts to complete the process successfully.

Why Use NTSA TIMS?

  • Convenience: Complete the process online without visiting NTSA offices.
  • Transparency: Real-time status updates on transfer progress.
  • Security: Reduces fraud risks through verification of buyer and seller details.

How to Transfer Motor Vehicle Ownership on NTSA TIMS

For the Seller

  1. Log in to TIMS
  2. Initiate Transfer
    • Navigate to Vehicle Registration > Transfer Vehicle Menu > Apply for Transfer of Ownership.
    • A list of your vehicles will appear; select the one you wish to transfer.
  3. Enter Buyer’s Details
    • Input the buyer’s ID and TIMS account details.
    • Select the ownership type: Individual, Joint, Financier, or Diplomatic Mission.
  4. Upload Documents
    • Attach a clear, colored scanned copy of the vehicle’s logbook in PDF format.
  5. Payment and Submission
    • Tick the declaration box, make the required payment, and click Submit.
    • A confirmation message will be sent to your registered mobile number.

For the Buyer

  1. Log in to TIMS
    • Use the same portal to access your account.
  2. Accept Transfer
    • Navigate to Vehicle Transfer > Accept Ownership.
    • Review the vehicle details, select Passed, and tick the declaration box.
  3. Submit for Approval
    • Click Approve to complete the process.
  4. Logbook Dispatch
    • Await approval and logbook issuance. The new logbook will be sent to the collection point.

Charges for Vehicle Transfer

Vehicle Rating CapacityTransfer Fee (KES)e-Sticker Fee (KES)
Up to 1000cc1,500750
1001cc–1200cc2,000750
1201cc–1500cc2,500750
1501cc–1700cc3,000750
1701cc–2000cc3,500750
2001cc–2500cc4,000750
2501cc–3000cc4,500750
Over 3000cc5,000750
Trailer (4+ wheels)3,000750

Timelines

  • Transfer Processing: Within 3 working days.
  • Logbook Dispatch: Subject to NTSA approval and collection scheduling.

How to Check Transfer Application Status

  1. Log in to your TIMS account.
  2. Go to Vehicle Registration > Transfer of Ownership > View Pending Application.
  3. Check the status of your application.

Applying for a Duplicate Logbook

Scenarios Requiring a Duplicate Logbook

  • Lost Logbook: Provide a police abstract, sworn affidavit, and tape-lift report.
  • Defaced Logbook: Upload the original scanned copy of the defaced logbook.

Steps to Apply

  1. Log in to TIMS
    • Navigate to Vehicle Registration > Duplicate Registration.
  2. Provide Documentation
    • Attach the required documents in PDF format based on the reason for application.
  3. Payment and Submission
    • Make payment, submit the application, and await approval.

Key Considerations for Motor Vehicle Buyers and Sellers

  • Ensure TIMS Accounts: Both buyer and seller must have active and verified TIMS accounts.
  • Accurate Details: Double-check all input details, including buyer’s ID and TIMS number.
  • Document Readiness: Keep scanned copies of required documents, such as logbooks and ID cards, in PDF format.
  • Payment Confirmation: Save transaction receipts for record-keeping.

Conclusion

The NTSA TIMS platform has revolutionized motor vehicle ownership transfer in Kenya by offering a fast, secure, and efficient process. With this guide, buyers and sellers can confidently navigate the system.


Ready to transfer your vehicle ownership or apply for a duplicate logbook? Visit NTSA TIMS Portal today and simplify the process.