Does Your Car Need NTSA Inspection In 2026? Here Is What You Need To Know
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has announced that all motor vehicle owners with vehicles older than four years must undergo mandatory inspections starting July 1, 2026. This move aims to improve road safety in Kenya by ensuring that all vehicles on the road are in good condition. As a vehicle owner, you may be wondering if your car needs an NTSA inspection in 2026 and what the process entails.
Who Is Affected By The NTSA Mandatory Inspection Order?
The NTSA mandatory inspection order applies to all private vehicles, commercial service vehicles, school transport vehicles, PSVs, matatus, taxis, and government-owned vehicles. However, tractors used purely for agriculture, golf carts, motorised pedal cycles, and ATVs are exempted, although they must still be inspected before being driven on public roads.
What Are The Fees For NTSA Inspection?
Vehicles below 3,000cc will pay a Ksh 1,000 booking fee to NTSA plus an inspection fee of up to Ksh 1,000 at the centre. Motorcycle and three-wheeler owners will pay a Ksh 200 booking fee and up to Ksh 300 inspection fee. You can pay for the inspection fees via M-Pesa Paybill 222222.
How To Book For NTSA Inspection On eCitizen
To book for an NTSA inspection, you will need to use the eCitizen platform via the NTSA service portal. Here are the steps to follow:
- Log in to your eCitizen account or create a new one if you don’t have one
- Click on the NTSA service portal and select the inspection service
- Enter your vehicle details and select a date and time for the inspection
- Pay for the inspection fees via M-Pesa Paybill 222222
What Happens If You Pass Or Fail The NTSA Inspection?
If your vehicle passes the inspection, you will be given an inspection sticker that must be displayed at all times. If your vehicle fails, you will be given a defect report, and you must fix the issues and return for a free re-inspection within 14 days at the same centre.
Penalties For Non-Compliance
Motorists who fail to comply with the NTSA mandatory inspection order risk fines of up to Ksh 20,000, imprisonment for up to six months, or both. However, NTSA has clarified that traffic officers will not enforce the mandatory inspection requirement on private motorists for now, and enforcement timelines will be communicated later.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the NTSA inspection:
- What happens if my car fails the NTSA inspection? If your car fails, you will be given a defect report, and you must fix the issues and return for a free re-inspection within 14 days at the same centre.
- How much does the NTSA inspection cost? The cost of the NTSA inspection varies depending on the type of vehicle, but vehicles below 3,000cc will pay a Ksh 1,000 booking fee plus an inspection fee of up to Ksh 1,000.
- Can I book for an NTSA inspection online? Yes, you can book for an NTSA inspection online using the eCitizen platform via the NTSA service portal.
In conclusion, if your car is older than four years, you need to undergo an NTSA inspection in 2026. The process is straightforward, and you can book for an inspection online using the eCitizen platform. Don’t risk being fined or imprisoned for non-compliance – book your NTSA inspection today and ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. Visit the eCitizen platform now and follow the steps to book for an inspection.

