Government Sets August 29, 2025 Deadline for New High‑Security Number Plates

Nairobi, June 2025 — In a sweeping directive issued on May 21, the Kenyan Government has mandated that all public institutions—encompassing ministries, state agencies, parastatals, public universities, schools, as well as county governments—must replace their old vehicle number plates with the new digital “reflective” or new-generation number plates by August 29, 2025

This initiative forms part of a broader effort to modernize vehicle registration, curb theft and cloning, and improve accountability in the transport sector.

🔒 What Are the New Generation Number Plates?

Launched in October 2022, these plates feature interactive QR codes, microchips, holograms, and a serial number linked to the vehicle’s chassis, all embedded in highly reflective material for enhanced visibility and security 

🛑 Why the Rush?

Since the deadline was announced, a surge in applications has emerged, particularly from government vehicles, to ensure compliance before penalty enforcement begins. The Government Vehicle Check Unit (GVCU), working with NTSA, warns that non-compliant vehicles will face impoundment after August 29

📌 How to Apply: Step‑by‑Step via NTSA TIMS

Here’s a simplified guide based on the latest NTSA directives:

1. Log in to your eCitizen account or NTSA TIMS portal.

2. Navigate to Vehicle Registration → Apply for Reflective Plate → choose New Generation Plate.

3. Upload required documents in PDF format: Vehicle logbook and photos of front and rear plates.

4. Pick your preferred plate shape (square or oblong).

5. Choose your notification method (typically SMS) and collection center.

6. Enter details of the person who will collect the plates.

7. Make the payment of Ksh 3,050 via the TIMS portal using M‑PESA or bank-based options
   
   

NTSA assures applicants that once payment is made, they should receive an SMS within about 7 working days with collection details

🚗 For Motorists (Private Owners)

At the moment, the mandatory August 29 deadline applies only to government vehicles. Private motorists are encouraged to apply proactively, though enforcement is not yet immediate for the general public.

👁️ Insight from NTSA

NTSA’s Director of Road Safety, Andrew Kiplagat, confirmed that the authority has ramped up capacity to manage the influx of applications and reduce delays, stating:

"We have implemented several measures to fast-track both application and approval, ensuring timely issuance despite the growing demand" 

🚨 What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

Government vehicles failing to transition by August 29, 2025 will be impounded, with no extensions planned. Enforcement will take place across the country in collaboration with the GVCU

Recommendation: All vehicle-owning agencies and organizations should begin their applications as soon as possible to avoid bottlenecks as the deadline nears. Even private motorists are advised to initiate the process early, as NTSA is expected to extend the requirement to all vehicles in future.

Would you like help accessing NTSA’s TIMS portal or locating approved collection centers? We are here WWW.ONLINECYBER.CO.KE