A roadworthiness certificate in Kenya for imported vehicles is an official document confirming that the car meets the safety and mechanical standards required by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA). For used car imports, this certificate is issued after a mandatory pre-shipment inspection by KEBS-appointed agencies such as QISJ or JEVIC before the vehicle leaves the exporting country. The inspection checks the overall condition of the vehicle, ensuring it is safe to drive, free from major mechanical defects, and compliant with Kenyan traffic regulations.

This certificate is crucial because no imported used car can be registered in Kenya without it. It serves as proof that the car’s brakes, steering, suspension, lights, tires, and other essential systems are in good working condition. If a vehicle arrives without a valid roadworthiness certificate, KEBS will require a destination inspection at the Port of Mombasa. This process is more expensive, may result in delays, and can lead to port storage charges if clearance takes too long.

For compliance, imported vehicles must also be right-hand drive and no more than eight years old from the date of first registration. The roadworthiness certificate confirms these requirements alongside safety and emission standards. The cost of obtaining the certificate is usually included in the pre-shipment inspection fee, which typically ranges from USD 250 to USD 300 depending on the country of export and the type of vehicle.

Elisa Motors ensures that every car they import has a valid roadworthiness certificate before shipping. This not only speeds up clearance at Mombasa but also protects buyers from the risk of importing a vehicle that cannot be registered for road use in Kenya. By handling all inspection arrangements, Elisa Motors makes the import process smooth, cost-effective, and fully compliant with Kenyan laws.

FAQs

Is a roadworthiness certificate the same as a QISJ inspection certificate?
Yes, the QISJ or JEVIC inspection includes the roadworthiness certification as part of its process.

Can I get the roadworthiness certificate in Kenya after importing?
Yes, but only through a destination inspection, which is more costly and time-consuming.

Who issues the roadworthiness certificate?
KEBS-approved inspection agencies such as QISJ or JEVIC.

Does Elisa Motors include this in their import package?
Yes, Elisa Motors ensures every imported car has a roadworthiness certificate before arrival.