How to Apply for New Digital Number Plates

The new digital number plates are here, and most of you have been asking how you can get them. We highlighted some of the plate’s features in a previous story, but as a recap, here are some of the things you should know about them.

1. You will have up to 18 months to replace your older plates with new digital ones.
2. The application process will be done via NTSA (more of that in a few) and will cost you KES 3000.
3. Applications will be opened from October 1, 2022.
4. The plates will be issued to newly registered vehicles from now and onwards.
5. The ‘digital’ part of the plates is an embedded microprocessor, which will allow state or security agencies to track mission vehicles, or those that have been involved in a crime.
6. The plates also have an NTSA serial number that is linked with a vehicle’s chassis number.
7. The front and back number plates will not be the same but will be linked, nonetheless.
8. The plates have better-looking and are unique in a way that will prevent forgery.
9. The plates have a Kenyan flag on them. The flag has been plastered on them in a way that cannot be duplicated.
10. The is also a KENYA mark on the plates.
11. There is a hologram that features the Big Five animals (Rhino, elephant, et al.)
12. The back of the plate will also include the date of manufacture, batch number, and the number of the production machines.

How to Apply

Motorists will need to acquire an application form from the NTSA. The form should detail vehicle particulars, including the type of plates needed.

The easier way is via a TIMS account.

It can be accessed from tims.go.ke. Login into your account, and go to Apply reflective number plate.

Then choose a vehicle that needs the new plate (there is a list in case you have more than one vehicle).

After indicating the plate the plate type and the person who will pick them, then indicate where you will want to collect the plate from.

Then, you will be tasked to make a payment via mobile money (M-PESA, Airtel Money) or card.

Lastly, you will receive a text from NTSA alerting you when your new plate will be ready.

An application fee will then be levied (KES 3000).

You will also be required to pay KES 700 for the replacement of a third license.

A fee of KES 1500 will be paid for the replacement of the motorcycle or single plate registration.

If you want a preferred registration number, then you must pay KES 30,000.