2 min read Financial Health

How to Quickly Confirm Vehicle Ownership in Kenya Online

How to Quickly Confirm Vehicle Ownership in Kenya Online

Whether you are buying a used car, applying for a logbook loan, or doing a due diligence check, confirming a vehicle’s ownership is one of the most important steps in Kenya. Fortunately, the NTSA TIMS platform makes it easy to verify vehicle details online in just a few steps.

Here’s how you can quickly confirm vehicle ownership in Kenya online without visiting any office.

Step 1: Create or Log in to Your NTSA TIMS Account

NTSA (National Transport and Safety Authority) runs an online platform called TIMS (Transport Integrated Management System).

To log in:

  1. Visit: https://tims.ntsa.go.ke
  2. Click "Sign In"
  3. Select your login method:
    • Individuals: Use ID Serial Number
    • Companies: Use Certificate of Incorporation Number
    • Dealers, Agents, Financial Institutions: Use Special Login Credentials
  4. Enter the required details and request a security code via SMS
  5. Use the code to log in to your TIMS dashboard

If you are new to the system, click "Register" and follow the steps to create an account.

Step 2: Select "Vehicle Search"

Once inside your dashboard:

  1. Look for "Vehicle Search" under the menu
  2. Enter the registration number (number plate) of the vehicle you want to verify
  3. Pay the search fee of KES 550 via M-PESA (Paybill details are provided in the portal)
  4. After payment, the system processes your request

Step 3: Download the Vehicle Search Report

Once the search is successful, you can download a Vehicle Search Report that contains:

  • Registered owner’s name (individual or company)
  • Make and model
  • Chassis number
  • Year of manufacture
  • Engine capacity
  • Logbook number
  • Vehicle status (e.g., if there’s a logbook loan or charge on it)

This document can be printed or saved as a PDF for your records.

Why This Matters

Confirming ownership helps you:

  • Avoid buying stolen or encumbered vehicles
  • Ensure logbook loan security is legit
  • Protect yourself from fraud or disputes
  • Know if a vehicle has active charges or financing

Pro Tips

  • Always perform a vehicle search before making any payments when buying a used car.
  • If buying from a third party, ensure the name in the vehicle search report matches the seller’s ID.
  • If the vehicle has a charge (loan or financing), the system will indicate it clearly. Ask the seller to clear it first.

Need Help?

If you are unsure how to go about it or need help interpreting the results, and are looking to secure a logbook loan or car financing contact us through our contact form, call us on +254791573231 or visit one of our branches  across Nairobi, Kiambu, Machakos, and Kajiado counties to explore your financial opportunities

Apply for a Logbook Loan

Don't risk your money. Confirm ownership, the smart way.