How to apply for the new digital number plates:

On August 30th of 2022, we were informed of, and presented with, Kenya’s next generation in vehicle registration number plates. The newly designed number plates, in-built with an embedded microprocessor, are more difficult to replicate, more easily scanned by cameras and emblazoned with Kenya’s national flag.

Though the High Court has recently decided that it is not lawful for the government to impose a deadline on when you have to have got your new digital number plate by, the phasing out of the old plates is now well under way. The new digital number plates will be the norm soon and you are strongly encouraged to apply for your new digital number plate.

In order to apply for the new digital number plates, you can follow one of two processes.

You can either apply manually or you can do so online through your TIMS account.

Here’s how:

Applying for your new digital number plate manually:

Acquire an application form from the NTSA. The form should detail vehicle characteristics and must indicate the type of plates that you need.

Complete and deliver the completed form to NTSA offices. Ensure you make the journey down to the NTSA offices with 3,000 Kshs for the payment.

Make your 3,000 Kshs payment.

Wait for a text notification to pick up your plates. We have been told that applicants should expect to wait around 3 weeks before their digital license plate application is completed.

Pick up your plates and fix them to your vehicle.

Applying for your new digital number plate through the TIMS online portal:

Visit www.ntsa.go.ke and log-in or create an account.

Select motor vehicle registration.

Select ‘Apply for reflective plates’, select the vehicle categorisation that yours best fits into and click ‘Next’.

You will be asked to give a reason for the application. Choose the option that best fits your reason for applying.

Choose your preferred method of being notified.

Choose a number plate and format: oblong and square are the choices.

In PDF format, upload copies of your original logbook and old license plates (rear and front).

Select your collection centre, and enter the ID number of the person who will collect it.

Pay the Ksh.3,050 fee and confirm.

Again, the waiting time for NTSA to process your application is expected to be around 3 weeks.
Pick up your new license plates and fix them to your vehicle.