After your imported vehicle has been cleared at Mombasa Port, the next crucial step is registration. Without registration, your car cannot legally be driven on Kenyan roads. The process involves working with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) and requires several documents. Elisa Motors has been helping clients through every step, making car registration stress-free and ensuring that new owners get their number plates and logbooks on time.

Step 1: Clearance at Mombasa Port

Before registration begins, your car must be cleared through customs. This includes paying import duty, excise duty, VAT, railway development levy, IDF fee, and any applicable environmental levy. Once cleared, you’ll get a release order, which is essential for the registration process. Elisa Motors handles clearance smoothly to avoid unnecessary delays.

Step 2: NTSA TIMS Account Setup

Car registration in Kenya is done online via the NTSA TIMS portal. Importers must have a TIMS account registered in their name, linked to their KRA PIN. If you don’t have an account, Elisa Motors assists in setting it up correctly.

Step 3: Submission of Documents

The following documents are needed for registration:

  • Import Declaration Form (IDF)

  • Bill of Lading

  • Customs Entry (Form C63)

  • Pre-export Inspection Certificate from KEBS-approved agent

  • Foreign logbook from the exporting country

  • KRA release documents

Elisa Motors ensures all paperwork is in order before submission, preventing rejections.

Step 4: Number Plate Assignment

Once the documents are verified, NTSA assigns Kenyan registration numbers to the car. Standard number plates are issued, but you can also request customized plates at an extra cost. Elisa Motors can arrange both standard and personalized plates for clients.

Step 5: Logbook Issuance

After registration, NTSA issues a digital logbook linked to your TIMS account. This logbook is proof of ownership and is vital when selling, transferring, or insuring the vehicle. Elisa Motors follows up with NTSA to ensure clients receive their logbooks without delay.

Step 6: Insurance and Road Use

Before driving the car, you must insure it with a recognized Kenyan insurance company. Once insured, the car is ready for legal road use. Elisa Motors connects clients with trusted insurance providers for quick coverage.

Why Choose Elisa Motors

Registering an imported vehicle can feel overwhelming for new car owners, especially with NTSA’s online system. Elisa Motors ensures:

  • All documents are correctly prepared

  • Clients don’t face unnecessary NTSA delays

  • Number plates and logbooks are processed quickly

  • Smooth handover of fully registered cars ready for the road

FAQs

1. How long does it take to register an imported car in Kenya?
On average, 7–14 working days once clearance is done, depending on NTSA processing speed.

2. Can I register a car without being in Kenya?
Yes, if you appoint Elisa Motors as your agent, they can handle the process on your behalf.

3. How much does car registration cost?
It depends on the vehicle type. Standard registration fees, number plate fees, and logbook charges apply. Elisa Motors provides a full breakdown in advance.

4. Do I need a KRA PIN for car registration?
Yes, a valid KRA PIN is mandatory, and it must be linked to your TIMS account.

5. Can Elisa Motors help with customized number plates?
Yes, Elisa Motors assists clients who want unique number plates for an additional fee charged by NTSA.