The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has announced new guidelines on the inspection of school transport vehicles, commercial service vehicles and other motor vehicles as part of efforts to improve road safety and ensure compliance with traffic regulations.
In a notice issued on Wednesday, NTSA said it will continue conducting inspections for school transport vehicles and commercial service vehicles at its inspection centres, requiring operators to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and have valid inspection stickers.
The Authority said law enforcement officers will verify the validity of inspection stickers using the free NTSA Mobile App during enforcement operations.
“School transport service operators and school management must ensure that all vehicles carrying children are roadworthy and have valid inspection stickers,” NTSA said.
The Authority, however, noted that enforcement of specific requirements under the Traffic (School Transport) Rules, 2026, including reflectorised red stop mechanical signal arms and telematic systems, will be communicated to the public at a later date.
For commercial service vehicles, NTSA said owners must comply with inspection requirements and maintain valid certification.
The Authority clarified that implementation of provisions under the NTSA (Operations of Commercial Vehicles) Regulations, 2026, including requirements on telematic systems and underride protection devices, will also be announced later.
NTSA further announced that it will begin inspecting other motor vehicles from July 1, 2026, in line with Section 55 of the Traffic Act (Cap 403).
All motor vehicle owners whose vehicles are more than four years old from the recorded date of manufacture will be required to book annual inspections through the NTSA service portal available via the eCitizen platform.
The Authority said details on enforcement of mandatory inspection for private motor vehicles will be communicated in due course.
NTSA also warned motorists that it has not licensed any private entity to provide motor vehicle inspection services.
Warning Against Corruption
The transport regulator reiterated its zero-tolerance stance against bribery and corruption, urging members of the public to report individuals claiming they can fast-track or influence NTSA services through unofficial channels.
“NTSA is committed to acting professionally, fairly and with integrity,” the Authority said, directing complaints to the nearest NTSA office, integrity@ntsa.go.ke, or the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC).
The new inspection measures are expected to strengthen compliance among vehicle owners and enhance safety standards on Kenyan roads.
