A logbook transfer is the process of changing vehicle ownership from a seller to a buyer. This is required when buying or selling a car in Kenya. The NTSA TIMS portal has made the transfer process fully digital. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do a logbook transfer in Kenya.
Requirements for Logbook Transfer
- Seller’s and buyer’s National IDs
- KRA PIN certificates (both buyer and seller)
- Active NTSA TIMS accounts
- Original motor vehicle logbook
- Sale agreement between buyer and seller
- Valid motor vehicle insurance certificate
Step-by-Step Process
- Both Parties Create NTSA TIMS Accounts
- Visit the NTSA TIMS portal.
- Register or log in using ID number and KRA PIN.
- Seller Initiates Transfer
- On the dashboard, click Vehicle Registration → Apply for Transfer of Ownership.
- Select the vehicle from the seller’s account.
- Enter buyer’s ID number, PIN, and phone number.
- Upload scanned documents (sale agreement, ID copies, insurance).
- Submit the application.
- Buyer Accepts Transfer
- The buyer logs into their TIMS account.
- Under notifications, locate the pending ownership transfer request.
- Review details and accept the transfer.
- Pay Transfer Fees
- Buyer pays the required NTSA fee (usually KSh 1,000 – 2,500, depending on vehicle type/engine capacity).
- Payment can be done via M-Pesa Paybill or NTSA-approved methods.
- NTSA Verification and Approval
- NTSA reviews documents and verifies details.
- Once approved, the transfer is completed.
- New Logbook Issued
- Buyer receives an SMS when the new logbook is ready.
- Collect it from NTSA offices or Huduma Centre.
Processing Time
- Usually takes 7 to 14 working days.
- May take longer if documents are missing or during high demand.
Conclusion
If you’re wondering how to do a logbook transfer in Kenya, the process is straightforward through NTSA TIMS. The seller initiates the transfer, the buyer accepts, and payment is made online. Within two weeks, NTSA issues a new logbook to the buyer. Always ensure both parties have TIMS accounts and valid documents to avoid delays.
