Ever been on Mombasa Road, cruising along, only to see those dreaded NTSA yellow jackets ahead? Your heart skips a beat as you mentally scan for any possible offence. We’ve all been there. Traffic fines are a major buzzkill, draining your wallet for mistakes that are often easy to avoid.
This guide breaks down the 7 most common NTSA fines Kenyan drivers face. We’re giving you the exact penalties and, more importantly, simple, actionable tips to keep your hard-earned money where it belongs—in your pocket.
1. Driving Without a Valid License (DL)
This is a classic and a big one. It doesn’t just mean you never got a license. It includes driving with an expired license, a provisional license without a supervisor, or simply forgetting your physical DL at home.
The fine is no joke. You’re looking at a penalty of Ksh 10,000 or more. NTSA officers have digital gadgets to verify your license status on the spot, so “I left it at home” rarely works anymore.
How to Avoid This Fine
First, check your license expiry date right now. Mark your calendar for renewal at least a month before. Always carry the physical card. If you’re on a provisional license, don’t drive alone. Treat your DL like your phone—something you never leave the house without.
2. Expired Insurance (Motor Third Party)
In Kenya, having at least a Third-Party motor insurance cover is a legal must-have. Driving without it, or with an expired certificate, is a serious offence. It leaves you financially exposed in an accident and will definitely attract NTSA’s attention.
The fine for this can go up to Ksh 5,000. More critically, if you cause an accident without insurance, you’ll be personally liable for all damages, which can run into millions.
How to Avoid This Fine
Set a yearly reminder on your phone linked to your insurance renewal date. Many insurers now offer digital certificates. Save a copy on your phone and keep a printed one in the glovebox. Consider setting up auto-renewal with your insurer for peace of mind.
3. Defective or Missing Safety Equipment
NTSA checks for specific, mandatory safety gear during their crackdowns. This isn’t just about a spare tyre. They will check for a working fire extinguisher, a reflective warning triangle, and a valid First-Aid kit.
Getting caught without any of these items can land you a fine of Ksh 2,000 per missing item. During the rainy season, they might also be strict on things like non-functional wipers or headlights.
How to Avoid This Fine
Do a quick “safety gear check” every month. Ensure your fire extinguisher gauge is in the green, your triangle is in the boot, and your First-Aid kit is stocked. You can buy a complete, compliant safety kit from shops like Carrefour or automotive shops in Industrial Area for around Ksh 5,000.
4. Invalid Inspection Sticker (MOT)
Your vehicle inspection sticker, commonly known as the “MOT,” proves your car is roadworthy. For private cars, it’s required annually. For public service vehicles (PSVs) like matatus, it’s every six months.
Driving with an expired inspection sticker attracts a fine of Ksh 2,500. NTSA and traffic police actively look for this small but crucial sticker on your windshield.
How to Avoid This Fine
Note the expiry date on your current sticker. Book your inspection at a licensed NTSA centre like the one in Likoni Road or other designated stations a few weeks before it expires. Don’t wait for the last day, as centres get packed.
5. Speeding and Overlapping
With the increased use of speed cameras on highways like Thika Road and the Nairobi-Nakuru highway, speeding tickets are no longer just from officers with radar guns. Overlapping (overtaking on the wrong side) is also a major trigger for fines, especially on busy, single-lane roads.
Speeding fines are tiered based on how much you exceed the limit, starting from around Ksh 3,000. Overlapping can cost you a cool Ksh 5,000.
How to Avoid This Fine
Use your cruise control if you have it. Pay extra attention to speed limit signs when entering towns. On single-lane roads, be patient. That extra 5 minutes you save by overlapping isn’t worth the fine or the extreme risk of a head-on collision.
6. Using a Mobile Phone While Driving
This is probably the most common, habitual offence. Holding your phone to talk, text, or even check Google Maps while driving is illegal. The law requires the use of a hands-free system if you must take a call.
The fine for this is Ksh 2,000. But the real cost could be your life or someone else’s. NTSA officers are particularly vigilant for this in slow-moving traffic in CBD areas like along Haile Selassie Avenue.
How to Avoid This Fine
Before you start the engine, connect your phone to Bluetooth or put it in “Do Not Disturb” mode and place it out of reach. If you need navigation, set the destination and mount the phone before you move. If a call is urgent, pull over safely.
7. Faulty or Missing Number Plates
Your number plates must be clean, legible, and securely fixed in the designated spots. Common issues include a missing front plate, a plate that’s faded or bent, or plates that don’t meet the new standardized format.
The fine for defective number plates is Ksh 1,000. For missing plates, it’s much higher. This is a simple thing that attracts unnecessary attention during roadblocks.
How to Avoid This Fine
Regularly clean your plates, especially after driving on muddy roads during the long rains. Ensure both front and rear plates are tightly screwed on. If a plate is stolen, report to the police immediately and get a replacement fast—don’t drive without it.
The Kenyan-Specific Lowdown: NTSA Crackdowns & The “Road Sobriety” Check
Here’s the local knowledge you need. NTSA doesn’t operate in a vacuum. They often launch major, well-publicized crackdowns, especially before festive seasons like December or during school holidays. These are peak times to be extra diligent.
Another very Kenyan reality is the “alcoblow” test. Driving under the influence can land you a fine of up to Ksh 20,000, a possible jail term, and a suspended license. After a night out in Westlands or Kilimani, if you’re driving, assume there will be a checkpoint on the way home. The only sure way to avoid this is to use a taxi-hailing app like Bolt or Uber, or designate a sober driver.
Remember, during the short rains when visibility is low, NTSA and traffic police are extra strict on lighting offences. Ensure all your lights—headlights, brake lights, and indicators—are working perfectly. A simple broken tail light can be the reason you’re stopped and checked for everything else.
Conclusion
Staying clear of these 7 most common NTSA fines boils down to one thing: proactive vehicle ownership. Most offences are for things that are easy to check and fix—your license, insurance, and basic car condition.
Treat your car documents like your M-Pesa PIN: always valid and secure. A few minutes of monthly checks can save you thousands of shillings and the stress of a roadside confrontation. Drive safe, stay legal, and keep your money for better things.
