How to Replace Faded or Defective Number Plates in Kenya Through NTSA

A faded, damaged, or defective number plate can make it difficult to identify your vehicle and may expose you to penalties if the registration details are not clearly visible.

If your number plates have become worn out due to age, weather, or an accident, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) allows motorists to apply for replacement reflective number plates.

You should replace your number plates if they are:

• Faded and the letters or numbers are difficult to read
• Bent, cracked, or physically damaged
• Defective due to manufacturing faults
• Missing after an accident or theft

Driving with illegible number plates may attract enforcement action because every vehicle must display clear and visible registration plates as required under the Traffic Act.

Requirements for Replacing Faded or Defective Number Plates

• The original vehicle logbook
• Your national ID or passport (for the registered owner)
• The old damaged or faded number plates, which will be surrendered when collecting the new ones
• For company-owned vehicles, a certificate of incorporation or business registration documents and an authorization letter where applicable

Also Read: NTSA Warns Kenyans Against Crossing Roads Outside Footbridges

How to Apply for Replacement Through NTSA

Step 1: Log into the NTSA portal

Visit the NTSA Service Portal using your eCitizen login credentials and access vehicle services.

Step 2: Select Reflective Number Plate service

Navigate to the Application for Reflective Number Plate service and choose the vehicle whose plates need replacement.

Step 3: Complete the application

Fill in the required vehicle details and select your preferred collection centre.

Step 4: Pay the prescribed fee

NTSA currently lists the Application for Reflective Number Plate at Ksh 1,550 plus applicable charges. Payment is made through the available online payment options.

Also Read: How to Download and Print Your NTSA Driving Licence Details Online

Step 5: Wait for processing

According to NTSA, replacement reflective number plates are typically processed within seven working days, although timelines may vary depending on demand and availability.

Step 6: Collect your new plates

Once your application is ready, you will be notified to collect the new number plates at the collection point you selected. Bring:

• Original identification
• Original logbook
• Old damaged number plates for surrender (where applicable)

How to Check if Your Plates are Ready

Motorists can check whether their number plates are ready for collection using NTSA’s Uncollected Smart DL, Number Plates and Logbooks tracker by entering their vehicle registration number.

If you encounter difficulties during the application process, you can contact NTSA through its official website or visit the nearest NTSA office or Huduma Centre for assistance.

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Photo collage of NTSA service portal and customers being served at Huduma Centre
PHOTO/Grok