Title: NTSA Logbook Transfer In Kenya (2025): Full Guide, Steps, Costs & Timelines

Introduction

If you’re buying or selling a car or motorbike in Kenya, completing the NTSA logbook transfer is a critical legal step. The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) requires all vehicle ownership transfers to be processed digitally via the TIMS portal on eCitizen. This guide explains the 2025 process, from starting the application to tracking your approval status, including fees, documents, how to fix transfer rejections, and what to do when the seller is unavailable.

1. Quick Overview of NTSA Logbook Transfer Process

Seller logs into TIMS via eCitizen.
Initiates the transfer by uploading the logbook and filling in buyer details.
Buyer receives a notification to accept the transfer.
NTSA reviews and processes the application.
Buyer receives a new digital logbook.

Typical timeline: 3–7 working days (if no issues arise).

This is a digital process and must be completed within 14 days of vehicle sale to avoid penalties.

2. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Transfer Logbook on NTSA TIMS

Step 1: Seller’s Responsibilities

Visit eCitizen portal.
Log in to the NTSA TIMS system.
Go to “Vehicle Registration” > “Apply for Transfer of Ownership”.
Select the vehicle, upload a scanned copy of the original logbook (PDF format).
Enter buyer’s KRA PIN, ID Number, and phone number.
Pay the transfer fee via mobile money (M-PESA).

Tip: Always confirm the buyer’s details before submitting to avoid rejection.

Step 2: Buyer’s Responsibilities

Log into the NTSA TIMS portal via eCitizen.
Navigate to “Vehicle Transfers In”.
Review the transfer request and accept if correct.
Enter a one-time verification code sent to their phone/email.

The transfer will not proceed unless the buyer accepts it.

Step 3: NTSA Review & Approval

Once the buyer confirms, NTSA reviews the submitted documents.
Upon successful verification, a new digital logbook is issued in the buyer’s name.
The old logbook becomes invalid.

Note: The buyer receives a digital logbook via email or can download it via TIMS.

3. Requirements for Logbook Transfer in Kenya

Ensure both buyer and seller provide:

National ID (front and back scanned).
Valid KRA PIN.
Scanned original logbook.
Completed Form C (transfer application form).
Sale agreement (recommended but not mandatory).
A valid insurance cover (not expired).
Vehicle inspection report (if applicable).

Best Practice: Scan all documents in color, in PDF format, and name them clearly.

4. NTSA Logbook Transfer Fees (2025)

Engine Capacity (cc)	Fee (KES)
Not exceeding 1000	1,660
1001 – 1200	1,890
1201 – 1500	2,065
1501 – 1700	2,195
1701 – 2000	2,325
2001 – 2500	2,490
Above 2500	2,655

Other charges:

M-PESA transaction fee: KES 23–30
E-Sticker fee: KES 50–200

Always use official NTSA payment options only.

5. Logbook Transfer Timelines & Status Tracking

Normal duration: 3–7 working days. Some transfers can take up to 14 days due to document issues or system delays.

How to Track Your Logbook Transfer Status

Log in to NTSA TIMS via eCitizen.
Click “Vehicle Registration” > “Transfer History”.
View status: Pending, Accepted, Approved, or Rejected.

If it remains “Pending” for over 7 days, contact NTSA.

6. Common Transfer Mistakes That Delay NTSA Logbook Transfer

Avoid these common errors:

Blurry or cropped document scans.
Mismatched buyer/seller names or KRA PINs.
Incorrect buyer details (especially email or phone).
Outstanding traffic fines on the vehicle.
Buyer fails to accept the transfer on time.

Pro Tip: Double-check all uploaded documents before submission.

7. Logbook Transfer Not Approved? Here’s What to Do

NTSA can reject a transfer for various reasons. Here’s how to fix it:

Check the rejection reason in your TIMS dashboard.
Correct the indicated issue (e.g., re-upload clearer logbook).
If buyer rejected by mistake, initiate the process again.
Use NTSA’s live chat or visit a Huduma Centre if stuck.

For persistent issues, consider applying for a forced transfer.

8. Forced Transfer of Vehicle Ownership in Kenya (2025)

A forced transfer is applicable when the seller is:

Uncooperative
Deceased
Unreachable (e.g., moved away or disappeared)

What You’ll Need:

Sale agreement
Police abstract
Sworn affidavit
Completed Form XI
Valid buyer documents (ID, KRA PIN)

Submit these manually to NTSA for review. The process may take up to 2–3 weeks.

Use this route only when absolutely necessary. See more guidelines on forced transfer

9. Motorbike Logbook Transfers

The NTSA logbook transfer process for motorbikes follows the same steps as for cars. However, motorbike owners often face issues such as:

Missing logbooks
Errors in chassis numbers
Rejection due to poor documentation

Always double-check your motorbike details and seek help from authorized NTSA agents or cybercafés.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does the NTSA logbook transfer take?

Typically 3–7 working days after the buyer confirms acceptance.

How do I check the status of my NTSA logbook transfer?

Log into TIMS > Vehicle Registration > Transfer History.

Can I transfer a vehicle without the seller?

Yes. Apply for a forced transfer if the seller is unavailable or uncooperative.

How much is the NTSA logbook transfer fee in 2025?

Fees range from KES 1,660 to KES 2,655 depending on vehicle engine size.

Is the NTSA logbook transfer process safe?

Yes. The entire NTSA logbook transfer is handled digitally via a secure portal.

Conclusion

The NTSA logbook transfer is an essential, legally required step when transferring vehicle ownership in Kenya. Thanks to the eCitizen platform and NTSA’s TIMS system, the process is more accessible and efficient than ever. Ensure all documents are correct, fees are paid, and both parties complete their roles on time to avoid costly delays.

📌 Need help? Check out:

What to Do if Your NTSA Logbook Transfer is Not Approved
[Motorbike Logbook Transfer Guide for Boda Riders]

Bookmark this article for 2025 updates and share with others looking to complete their NTSA logbook transfer the smart way!