KD plates are not a substitute for standard number plates. Their use is restricted to specific purposes outlined in law. Nashon Kondiwa stated, “A KD plate is not a substitute for a standard motor vehicle registration plate. Its use is strictly governed by the law.” This change aims to clarify the legal framework surrounding vehicle registration.

Motor vehicle dealers face new financial requirements. They must pay annual fees of Sh9,600 for new vehicle dealers and Sh4,200 for second-hand dealers. Additionally, new KD plates will cost Sh18,500, while renewals are set at Sh6,300.

All vehicles on public roads must have at least third-party insurance cover as mandated under the Insurance (Motor Vehicle Third Party Risks) Act. This regulation reinforces the need for responsible vehicle ownership.

As schools prepare to reopen, NTSA issued a safety checklist for school administrators. The checklist ensures safe transportation of learners when schools resume operations. School transport vehicles must pass safety compliance checks under Operation Watoto Wafike Salama.

Yet, school buses are not permitted to operate before 6 AM or after 6 PM to keep learners safe. This restriction aims to reduce risks associated with transporting children during high-traffic hours.

NTSA has intensified inspections targeting public service vehicles and school transport operators. Failure to comply with these safety standards could attract penalties, including withdrawal of operating licences for school transport providers.

This regulatory shift comes amid alarming statistics—31 lives were claimed by road traffic accidents in the first six days of 2026. The National Police Service remarked, “This is unacceptably alarming and cannot be allowed to continue. It is a crisis that demands immediate, collective, and decisive action.”

Details remain unconfirmed regarding how these changes will impact accident rates in the long term. However, NTSA’s focus on enforcement suggests a commitment to improving overall road safety in Kenya.

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Previously, there was little accountability for vehicle conditions on Kenyan roads. Many motorists drove unroadworthy vehicles without fear of inspection. But now, the new rules demand annual inspections to ensure vehicles are both roadworthy and environmentally compliant.

Under the new regulations, private vehicles must undergo mandatory inspections at least once a year. Common reasons for failing these inspections include faulty braking systems, worn-out tyres, malfunctioning lights, and failure to meet emission standards. Documentation gaps, such as expired insurance or missing vehicle registration details, can also lead to failures.

The High Court recently upheld these new vehicle inspection rules, dismissing a petition against them. Justice Maureen Odero stated that the government lawfully developed the Traffic (Motor Vehicle Inspection) Rules, 2025. A public participation exercise was conducted prior to this decision, allowing input from various stakeholders.

Inspection stickers will be issued for vehicles that pass the checks. Penalties for non-compliance will be enforced under existing traffic laws. The regulations also stipulate that inspections are required after road accidents and during changes of ownership.

The NTSA plans to license private vehicle inspection centres through a public-private partnership model. This approach aims to streamline the inspection process while addressing rising concerns over unroadworthy vehicles linked to accidents and traffic violations.

Many motorists in Kenya are already struggling with these mandatory vehicle inspections. As compliance becomes more stringent, it remains to be seen how effectively these measures will enhance road safety across the country.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific implementation timeline for the licensing of inspection centres. However, the government’s commitment to improving road safety is clear.

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