How to Do a Motor Vehicle Search in Kenya

A motor vehicle search in Kenya allows you to check important information about a vehicle before buying it or completing a transfer of ownership. The search is particularly useful when purchasing a second-hand vehicle because it can help you confirm the vehicle’s registration details and ownership information.

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) provides motor vehicle-related services online through its service platform and eCitizen. NTSA currently lists Copy of Records as a vehicle service, with an official fee of KES 550 and an indicated processing time of immediately.

Need Help Getting a Motor Vehicle Search?

At JO-TECH Cyber, we make the process simple and convenient.

Simply send us:
✅ The vehicle registration number
✅ The processing fee of Ksh 1,200

⏱️ Processing Time: Approximately 10 minutes

Once processed, you will receive the motor vehicle search information in PDF format through:
📱 WhatsApp
📧 Email

Fast • Convenient • Reliable

To Get Started:

📩 Contact JO-TECH Cyber today for assistance with your motor vehicle search.

Call/WhatsApp: +254710200886

E-Mail: info@jotechcyber.co.ke

Steps for Motor Vehicle Search

What You Need Before Starting

Before applying for a motor vehicle search, have the following ready:

  • A valid eCitizen account
  • Your phone or computer with internet access
  • The vehicle’s registration number
  • A payment method supported by eCitizen
  • Correct vehicle information

Make sure the registration number provided by the seller matches the number displayed on the vehicle and the documents supplied to you.

Step 1: Open the Official NTSA Service Platform

Go to the official NTSA website and access the online services section. Official NTSA Website.

The NTSA Service Portal uses your eCitizen login credentials to access NTSA services.

Step 2: Log In Using Your eCitizen Account

Select the option to sign in and enter your eCitizen login details.

If you do not have an eCitizen account, you will need to create one before accessing services that require authentication.

Keep your login credentials private. Do not give your eCitizen password, OTP, National ID details or other account information to someone claiming to process the search for you.

Step 3: Select the Motor Vehicle Service

After logging in, go to the NTSA vehicle services section.

Look for the service relating to Copy of Records or the applicable motor vehicle records search service.

NTSA’s current vehicle-services listing identifies Copy of Records as an available service.

Step 4: Enter the Vehicle Registration Details

Enter the vehicle’s registration number as requested by the system.

Check the registration number carefully before continuing. A mistake in one character can result in you searching for the wrong vehicle or receiving an error.

For example, if the vehicle registration number is KDA 123A, enter the details exactly as required by the NTSA system.

Step 5: Review the Application

Before submitting the request, carefully check the information you have entered.

Pay particular attention to:

  • Vehicle registration number
  • Your personal details
  • The selected NTSA service
  • The applicable fee

If everything is correct, proceed with the application.

Step 6: Pay the Motor Vehicle Search Fee

NTSA currently lists the Copy of Records service at KES 550.

Follow the payment instructions displayed on the official NTSA/eCitizen platform.

Do not send money to an individual claiming to be an NTSA agent unless the payment is being processed through the official government system.

Step 7: Access the Search Results

After completing the application and payment, follow the instructions on the portal to access the vehicle records.

NTSA currently indicates immediate processing for the Copy of Records service.

The information available to you will depend on the specific service and your authorization to access the records.

FAQs

Can You Do a Motor Vehicle Search Online?

Yes. NTSA provides online vehicle services, allowing users to access various motor vehicle-related services without necessarily visiting an NTSA office.

How Much Does a Motor Vehicle Search Cost in Kenya?

The current NTSA vehicle-services page lists Copy of Records at KES 550. It also indicates immediate processing for the service.

How long does an NTSA vehicle search take?

NTSA currently indicates immediate processing for its Copy of Records service.

Should I do a vehicle search before buying a used car?

Yes. It is an important part of verifying the vehicle and its documentation before completing a purchase. You should also inspect the vehicle physically and have a qualified mechanic check it.

Read: Driving Licence Classes in Kenya

Conclusion

Doing a motor vehicle search in Kenya is an important step when buying a second-hand vehicle. Start with the official NTSA/eCitizen platform, enter the correct vehicle registration details, pay the applicable fee, obtain the available records and compare them with the vehicle and documents provided by the seller.

Author

  • Jozam Chahenza profile picture

    Jozam Chahenza is a writer and developer at JO-TECH Cyber, specializing in step-by-step tutorials, tools, and web applications that equip Kenyans and global readers with practical digital skills and technical knowledge. He holds a Diploma in Information Technology from the East Africa Institute of Certified Studies (EAICS)