The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued a public notice regarding the use of unregistered vehicles by motor vehicle dealers in Kenya.
This was part of a thorough revalidation effort by different agencies to ensure compliance with all the provisions of the Traffic Act, Cap 403.
In terms of Sections 23 (1)and 24 (c)of the Traffic Act, NTSA has the responsibility of licensing and regulating motor vehicles as well as motorcycle dealers.
The entire exercise by the NTSA also involved the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Financial Reporting Centre (FRC), and Directorate of Immigration Services (DIS), alongside many other security agencies, to investigate compliance and find out such dealers carrying on an illegal practice in the country.
The Authority observes that unlicensed vehicles are held within their premises (showrooms and yards) by many motor dealers in direct contravention of the Traffic Act, Cap 403.
Further, it makes an assertion which demands that the conduct should be corrected within no time.
Henceforth, it has mandated all motor vehicle dealers to finalize any pending applications for registration of motor vehicles by December 16, 2024.
"The law enforcement agents are advised to impound those vehicles operating without registration plates, those illegally using Kenya Dealer Plates (KD), and charge the respective dealers and owners," the Authority directed.
According to the Traffic Act, Cap 403, the identification plates of Kenya Dealers (KD) are allowed for the following: the bringing of a vehicle either to the premises of a dealer or from the premises of a dealer to a railway station or wharf for entraining or shipment.
They also include conducting a test or trial during or after completion, construction, assembly, or repair; and conducting a test or trial by or on behalf of an intending purchaser or for proceeding to or from the place where the purchaser intends to keep the vehicle.
Additionally, KD plates are allowed for proceeding to or from a public weighbridge to ascertain its weight or to or from a place for registration, among others.
Dealers can verify KD plate details through NTSA’s online Movement Register at www.ntsa.go.ke under the “Dealers & Garages Licensing” section.
For further inquiries and service support, NTSA urges individuals to visit their nearest NTSA office or Huduma Centre Help Desk.