How to Report a Lost or Stolen Number Plate to NTSA

If your vehicle’s number plate is lost, damaged, or stolen, you should report it immediately to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA)because it’s more than a minor inconvenience.

Driving without a valid number plate is an offence and can expose a driver to traffic penalties; you will need to follow the official replacement process through the NTSA.

Step 1: Report the Incident to the Police

Make an official report in a nearby police station immediately the loss is discovered

The police will then require you to record the incident in the Occurrence Book (OB).

You’ll be issued with a Police Abstract, which is essential as it proves that the matter was indeed reported. With the abstract, you can drive without fear of being fined by the traffic officers.

Step 2: Obtain a Sworn Affidavit

It’s a statement confirming the circumstances under which the number plate was lost or damaged. The affidavit serves as a formal declaration that the information provided is accurate.

It usually explains:

How the number plate was lost or stolen
The date and place where the incident occurred
Whether the front, rear, or both number plates are missing
The affidavit must be sworn before a replacement plate is given by a Commissioner for Oaths

Step 3: Take the Vehicle for a DCI Tape Lift Examination

With your police abstract, visit the DCI offices for a tape lift.

The DCI usually requires a vehicle examination (commonly known as a tape lift) before a replacement plate can be processed.

It verifies the authenticity of the vehicle and ensures nothing has been interfered with. You are required to carry with you a national ID or passport, original logbook, or a copy of records.

Also Read: How to Verify a Motor Vehicle Using SMS and the NTSA Portal in Kenya

Step 4: Apply for a Replacement Through NTSA eCitizen Portal

Log in to your eCitizen account and access the NTSA Service Portal to apply for the replacement of the lost or stolen number plate. If you do not have one, you can create then log in with your details.

Thereafter, upload clear copies of your national ID, police abstract, tape lift report, the affidavit, and any other required documents by the NTSA.

The portal will then require you to pay the applicable replacement fee. Once all is done, a notification will be sent when the new plate is ready for collection.

Also Read: How to Apply for a PSV Badge and License on NTSA TIMS

What to be Considered Urgently

Report the loss or theft as soon as possible to reduce the risk of misuse of your registration number
If only one plate is missing, inform the police and NTSA exactly which one (front or rear)
Keep copies of all documents submitted during the application process
Do not install unofficial or homemade number plates while waiting for the replacement, as this may lead to penalties

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