In less than three months, the deadline to replace your old number plates with the new generation ones will arrive. The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) is urging all motorists to act now and avoid last-minute panic.
A new circular from May 21 requires all government vehicles to comply by August 29, or risk being impounded. While the process might seem complicated, it’s actually straightforward once you know what to do.
NTSA has broken it down step-by-step to help make sure your vehicle is road-compliant and legally registered with the new high-tech plates.
Step-by-step guide to applying for New Generation Number Plates
NTSA has simplified the process for motorists to apply for the new plates through the TIMS platform. Whether you’re a private citizen, company, or government agency, the steps below will help you complete your application with ease.
Log into the NTSA TIMS Portal
Start by visiting the NTSA TIMS platform. You can access the portal using your eCitizen credentials or your existing NTSA profile.
Once logged in:
- Click on “Vehicle Registration” from the dashboard.
- Select “Apply for Reflective Plate.”
From there, you will:
- Choose the type of vehicle you’re applying for (motorcycle, car, lorry, etc.).
- Click “Next” to proceed to the application form.
Fill in your details and upload the right documents
On the next screen:
- Select the reason for your application. Choose “New Generation Plate” from the drop-down menu.
- Upload a PDF copy of your logbook.
- Upload clear images of your current front and rear number plates.
Next, you’ll be asked to select the shape of your new plates:
- Choose square or oblong depending on your vehicle’s design and plate holder.
Choose delivery options and pay the fee
You’ll then be prompted to:
- Select how you want to receive updates on your application. Most people choose SMS.
- Choose a preferred collection center from the list of NTSA-approved locations.
- Enter the ID number of the person who will collect the plates.
Finally:
- Pay Ksh 3,050 through the integrated payment system on the NTSA platform.
- Wait for an SMS notification confirming when and where to collect your new plates.
What You Should Know Before Applying
The new generation plates are not just for looks. They serve a vital role in modernizing Kenya’s vehicle identification system and enhancing road safety.
Features of the new generation number plates
Each plate comes with a unique serial number, a QR code, and microchip technology that makes it easier for traffic officers and other enforcement agencies to track stolen or unregistered vehicles. The QR code can be scanned to instantly verify the vehicle’s owner and registration details.
This digital tracking is expected to reduce cases of car theft and help police crack down on cloned number plates and fake logbooks.
According to the NTSA, these plates are part of Kenya’s plan to digitize transport and improve public safety on the roads. They were first unveiled in October 2022, and over 400,000 vehicles have already been fitted with them.
What happens if you miss the deadline
The deadline for switching to the new generation number plates is August 29, 2025.
Head of Public Service Felix Koskei has warned that any vehicle not compliant by this date will be impounded. That means you could lose access to your vehicle, face fines, or go through a lengthy process to retrieve it.
Government vehicles are under strict instructions to comply. The same expectations apply to private vehicles, motorcycles, and company-owned fleets.
NTSA’s Road Safety Director Andrew Kiplagat said that measures are in place to speed up approvals and ease congestion at collection points. He encouraged motorists to apply early and not wait until the last minute when demand is expected to overwhelm the system.
Conclusion
Applying for the new generation number plates in Kenya is now a clear, guided process thanks to the NTSA’s online system. With the August 29 deadline fast approaching, vehicle owners must act fast to avoid penalties.
Log into your NTSA TIMS profile, upload your documents, pay the required fee, and collect your new plates at your preferred location.
These new plates are more than just a design upgrade—they are a security tool designed to modernize transport and make Kenyan roads safer. Don’t wait. Make the switch today and stay compliant.
