The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued updated guidance on the transfer of ownership for vehicles belonging to a deceased person.
In a public announcement on January 19, the regulatory body stated that such vehicles must be processed through an alternative or forced transfer mechanism rather than the standard ownership transfer system.
Ownership can only change after the completion of succession processes and the submission of verified court documents.
NTSA said the procedure applies to all motor vehicles, including private cars, motorcycles, commercial vehicles, and public service vehicles, where the registered owner is deceased.
Requirements
Applicants must submit a certified Certificate of Grant and a schedule of properties issued by a court, listing the vehicle as one of the deceased person’s assets.
A letter appointing estate administrators is also required.
The original logbook must be provided, or a police abstract if the logbook is missing.
Other mandatory documents include an official transfer request letter, a certified death certificate from the Civil Registration Services, and a DCI tape lift report.
The authority requires a completed Transfer Form (Form C) and a sworn affidavit from the successor confirming entitlement to the vehicle.
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The new owner must submit copies of their KRA PIN certificate and national identity card.
All documents must be uploaded online and physically presented at the selected NTSA office for verification.
Online Application Through NTSA Service Portal
According to NTSA, applications for alternative or forced transfer must be submitted through the NTSA digital platform at serviceportal.ntsa.go.ke.
Applicants are required to log in, select the alternative or forced transfer option, and complete the application by indicating the type of transfer being requested.
All original clearance and supporting documents must be uploaded as PDFs.
One authorised individual must be identified to physically submit the original logbook during the application process.
Inspection and Physical Document Submission
After submitting the online application, applicants must pay the required fees for the forced transfer and vehicle inspection.
The system automatically prompts users to book an inspection at a preferred inspection centre and select a suitable date.
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Following the inspection, the vehicle must be presented for assessment, and all physical documents must be submitted at the selected NTSA office.
Upon approval, an automated SMS notification is sent to the new owner confirming that the transfer has been completed.
Charges and Processing Timeline
Charges related to the transfer of a vehicle belonging to a deceased person vary depending on the vehicle’s cubic capacity (CC) rating and the applicable inspection fee.
The processing period is approximately three working days, provided all documentation is accurate, complete, and submitted without discrepancies.
NTSA Warning Against Unauthorized Transfers
Individuals have been cautioned that using, selling, or transferring a vehicle belonging to a deceased person without completing succession and the alternative transfer process exposes families to legal disputes, delays, and possible allegations of fraud.
The authority urged members of the public to rely on official NTSA platforms and offices for guidance, warning against brokers and unlicensed agents offering expedited services.
NTSA said compliance with the alternative transfer process ensures accurate vehicle records, protects beneficiaries’ interests, and upholds the integrity of Kenya’s motor vehicle registration system.
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