Step-by-Step Guide to Using NTSA TIMS in Kenya

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) introduced the Transport Integrated Management System (TIMS) to make vehicle registration and ownership services easier, faster, and more transparent. Whether you’re buying a used car, transferring ownership, or applying for a logbook, TIMS is the official online platform every motorist in Kenya must use.

For many drivers, however, navigating TIMS for the first time can feel confusing. This guide breaks down the process step by step so you can handle all your paperwork efficiently and avoid costly mistakes.

Step 1: Create and Activate a TIMS Account

Before you can access any NTSA services, you need an account.

1. Visit the official NTSA TIMS portal.
2. Click Register an Account.
3. Choose the appropriate category:
   • Individual – For private car owners
   • Dealer – For car dealers
   • Company – For businesses
   • Financial Institution – For banks and SACCOs dealing with car loans
4. Provide your ID number, KRA PIN, and mobile number.
5. Set a password and confirm your registration.

👉 Tip: Always register using your official phone number and email address. These are used to send verification codes and notifications.

📌 Related reading: How to Transfer Car Ownership in Kenya

Step 2: Log in and Explore the Dashboard

Once your account is active:

• Visit the TIMS login page and enter your ID number, password, and verification code (sent to your phone).
• You’ll land on the dashboard, which has sections such as:
  • Vehicle Registration
  • Ownership Transfer
  • Duplicate Logbook
  • Number Plate Application
  • Vehicle Inspection

👉 Practical tip: Familiarize yourself with the dashboard first before starting any transactions to avoid mistakes.

Step 3: Initiate a Vehicle Transfer (Seller’s Process)

If you’re selling your car, here’s how to transfer ownership:

1. Log in to your TIMS account.
2. Select Vehicle Transfer.
3. Choose the car you want to transfer from your list of registered vehicles.
4. Enter the buyer’s ID number and mobile number.
5. Upload a copy of the signed sale agreement.
6. Submit the transfer request.

The system will send a notification to the buyer to approve the transfer.

📌 Learn more: Legal Steps: Transferring Ownership and Handling Paperwork Efficiently

Step 4: Accept Transfer (Buyer’s Process)

As a buyer, you must complete your part:

1. Log in to your TIMS account.
2. Go to the Notifications tab and click on the pending ownership transfer.
3. Review the seller’s details, vehicle details, and sale agreement.
4. Approve the transfer.
5. Pay the transfer fee, which depends on the engine capacity:
   • Below 1000cc: KSh 1,660
   • 1001cc–1200cc: KSh 1,890
   • 1201cc–1500cc: KSh 2,065
   • Larger SUVs and trucks: Higher fees apply

👉 Tip: Always double-check that the vehicle details (chassis, engine, registration) match the logbook before approving.

Step 5: Wait for Processing and New Logbook

Once the transfer is approved and fees are paid:

• NTSA processes the application within 7–14 working days.
• The new logbook is issued under the buyer’s name.
• You can collect it at your nearest NTSA office or Huduma Centre when notified.

👉 Practical tip: During the waiting period, keep a printed copy of the sale agreement and transfer confirmation as proof of ownership in case of traffic checks.

Other Services Available on NTSA TIMS

Besides ownership transfers, TIMS also lets you:

• Apply for duplicate logbooks if yours is lost or damaged
• Register new vehicles
• Apply for personalized number plates
• Book vehicle inspections
• Apply for third plate stickers (used in car tracking)

📌 Also read: Essential Car Maintenance Tips for Kenyan Drivers

Why NTSA TIMS Matters

Before TIMS, car buyers in Kenya had to rely on middlemen or lengthy manual processes that often led to fraud or delays. Today, the system allows you to complete transactions yourself in a transparent and secure way.

For car buyers exploring reliable used vehicles, check out auto24.co.ke, which lists a wide range of cars—from Toyota Premios to Mazda CX-5s—already prepared for legal transfer on TIMS. For the latest motoring news, reviews, and practical guides, visit automag.co.ke and autoskenya.com.

Final Thoughts

The NTSA TIMS platform has made car ownership processes in Kenya more efficient and secure. By following these steps—creating an account, initiating transfers correctly, and paying the required fees—you can avoid fraud and handle your paperwork with confidence.

Whether you’re buying your first car or selling one you’ve outgrown, TIMS ensures the process is transparent and traceable, giving you peace of mind.