Kenya has taken a step forward in ensuring the security of its motor vehicles with the launch of digital number plates. On 30th August 2022, the Interior Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Fred Matiangi, launched the much-anticipated plates that will replace the older versions.

These new plates come with a range of enhanced security features that will make it easier for the government to keep track of all motor vehicles in the country. In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at the new digital number plates, how to apply for them, and what benefits they bring to the table.

Key Features of the New Digital Number Plates

The new digital number plates feature the Kenyan flag, a serial number, and a hologram. They also come with a range of information about the vehicle, including its ownership details, color, year of manufacture, type of vehicle, chassis number, etc.

Benefits of the New Digital Number Plates

The digital number plates bring with them a range of benefits that will enhance the security of motor vehicles in Kenya. Some of these benefits include:

• Enhanced Security: The new plates come with a range of security features that are invisible to the naked eye. Only law enforcers can access the information from them, making it very difficult for fraudsters and thieves to steal motor vehicles.
• Improved Traceability: The new plates make it very easy for the government to trace all motor vehicles in the country. This will help in the recovery of stolen vehicles and prevent motor vehicle theft cases.
• Better Management of Vehicles: The information on the new plates will help the government to better manage all motor vehicles in the country. This will lead to a reduction in road accidents and a better distribution of road tax.

Also Read: Everything ‘Tech’ We Know About Kenya’s New Digital Number Plates

How to Apply for the Digital Number Plates

There are two ways to apply for the new digital number plates: manually and online. Let’s take a look at both methods:

Manual Application

• Get an application form from the NTSA.
• Fill it with the vehicle’s specifications and the type of plates required.
• Submit the fully-filled form to the NTSA offices.
• Make a payment of KSH3000 for motor vehicles or KSH1500 for motorbikes.
• You will receive an SMS notification on when and where to pick them up.

Online Application

• Send a text message, “NTSA” to 22847.
• Log in to your TIMS account at https://tims.ntsa.go.ke.
• Go to “Apply for reflective number plate”.
• Select the kind of vehicle that you are applying the digital number plate for.
• Indicate the number plate type.
• Submit the name of the person who will pick it up and your preferred location.
• Pay Ksh3,000 or Ksh1,500 depending on whether it is a car or a motorcycle. Preferred plates cost Ksh 30,000.
• You will receive a text message when your new digital number plates will be ready.

Cost of the New Digital Number Plates

Motor vehicle and motorbike owners will have to part with Ksh3000 and Ksh1500 respectively to replace the older plates with the new digital number plates.