Ever tried to renew your car’s insurance or transfer logbook, only to be told “Hujafanya TIMS”? You’re not alone. That NTSA TIMS portal can look confusing, especially on a phone. But it’s just a mandatory step for all vehicle owners in Kenya.
This guide breaks it down in plain language. We’ll walk you through what TIMS is, how to register, pay, and get your vehicle inspected. No jargon, just the practical steps you need to get it done and avoid those last-minute panics at the inspection centre.
What is the NTSA TIMS Portal Anyway?
TIMS stands for Transport Integrated Management System. Think of it as NTSA’s digital filing cabinet for every vehicle in Kenya. It’s where your car’s life story is recorded – from import to eventual scrap.
The portal is where you, as an owner, interact with this system. Before any major transaction (like transfer or renewal of insurance), you must get a TIMS inspection. This confirms the vehicle’s details match NTSA’s records. It’s a key step to fight fraud and cloning.
Why You Can’t Avoid the TIMS Portal in Kenya
In Kenya, the TIMS certificate is now a non-negotiable. Insurance companies demand it before issuing a cover note. Buyers and sellers need it for a smooth transfer. Even getting a duplicate logbook requires it.
Simply put, if your vehicle is in the NTSA system, you will use the TIMS portal. The good news? Once you know the steps, it’s a straightforward online process that saves you from multiple physical trips to NTSA offices.
Step-by-Step: How to Use the NTSA TIMS Portal
Let’s get practical. Here’s exactly what you need to do, from your phone or computer. Have your vehicle’s logbook (copy is fine) and your ID ready.
1. Creating Your TIMS Account
First, visit the official NTSA TIMS portal. Look for the “Create Account” button. You’ll enter your full name (as per ID), ID number, email, and phone number.
Choose a strong password. You’ll get a verification email or SMS. Click the link to activate your account. This account is now your permanent gateway for all NTSA vehicle services.
2. Adding Your Vehicle for Inspection
Once logged in, find the menu option for “Vehicle Inspection” or “Apply for Inspection.” You’ll be prompted to enter your vehicle’s registration number (like KCB 123A).
The system will pull up your vehicle’s details from its database. Carefully verify everything: make, model, chassis number, and engine number. If anything is wrong, you’ll need to correct it with NTSA before proceeding. This is a common hiccup for older imports.
3. Making the TIMS Payment Online
After confirming details, you’ll be directed to pay the inspection fee. The system generates a payment slip with a unique reference number. The standard fee is KSh 1,050.
You can pay via M-Pesa (PayBill number 222222, Account is your reference number), debit/credit card, or at appointed banks like KCB or Cooperative Bank. Keep the payment confirmation message safe.
4. Booking & Attending the Physical Inspection
With payment confirmed, you can now book an inspection appointment. The portal will show you authorized inspection centres. In Nairobi, popular ones include those along Likoni Road in Industrial Area or in South C.
Choose a centre, pick a date, and get your booking slip. On the day, drive there with your vehicle, original logbook, ID, and payment confirmation. The inspection itself is quick – they just verify the physical details match the system.
The Kenyan-Specific Realities of Using TIMS
Let’s talk about the on-ground experience, because theory and practice in Kenya can differ. Knowing these tips will save you hours and frustration.
Costs, Centres, and “Manenos” to Watch
The official fee is KSh 1,050. However, if your vehicle details have a mismatch, be prepared for extra costs and time. Correcting a chassis number typo at NTSA headquarters (along Thika Road) involves a KSh 1,000 affidavit and potentially a police abstract (more fees).
Choose your inspection centre wisely. During the long rains (March-May), avoid centres known for flooding access roads. A centre in Industrial Area might be quicker on a Tuesday afternoon than on a Monday morning when everyone is rushing.
Pro Tip: Do not wait until your insurance is expiring next week to start this process. Start at least two weeks before. System downtimes (“NTSA portal imedown”) are common, especially at month-ends. If you’re buying a used car from someone, confirm they have a valid TIMS certificate before you pay a shilling.
After the Inspection: Getting Your Certificate
Once your vehicle passes inspection, the officer updates the status in the TIMS portal. You don’t always get a physical certificate on the spot. Often, the status simply changes to “Inspected” in the system.
You can log back into your TIMS account and download the inspection report. This digital copy is what your insurance agent needs. The update is usually instant, but allow up to 24 hours during peak periods.
Common TIMS Portal Problems & Solutions
Hitting a snag? Here are quick fixes for the most frequent issues Kenyans face.
“Vehicle Details Not Found” Error
This is panic mode for many. It usually means there’s a discrepancy between your logbook and NTSA’s master record. First, double-check the registration number you entered. If it’s correct, you must visit an NTSA office (like the one at Times Tower) for verification and correction. Bring all your documents.
Payment Not Reflecting
You’ve paid via M-Pesa but the portal still says “Pending Payment.” Don’t pay again! The system can be slow to sync. Wait 30-60 minutes, refresh your portal page, or log out and back in. If it still hasn’t updated after 2 hours, contact NTSA support with your M-Pesa transaction code.
Forgotten Password or Locked Account
Use the “Forgot Password” link on the login page. You’ll need the email or phone number linked to your account. If you’re locked out after too many attempts, you may need to call the NTSA helpline. Be patient – have your ID number ready for verification.
Beyond the Inspection: Other TIMS Portal Uses
The TIMS portal isn’t just for inspections. Once registered, you can use it for other services, making life easier.
You can apply for a duplicate logbook (if yours is lost), check your vehicle’s ownership history, and even initiate an online transfer of ownership. It centralizes many services that previously required queueing for hours.
Familiarizing yourself with it now means you’ll handle future vehicle admin tasks much faster. It’s a crucial part of being a vehicle owner in digital Kenya.
Wrapping Up: Your TIMS Action Plan
So, how does the NTSA TIMS portal work? It’s a mandatory online system that links your physical vehicle to NTSA’s digital records. The process is: create an account, add your vehicle, pay KSh 1,050, book an inspection, and get the vehicle physically checked.
The key is to start early, have your documents correct, and choose your inspection centre strategically. Treat it like a routine part of your vehicle’s maintenance, not a last-minute emergency.
