Kenya to scrap physical logbooks in major vehicle ownership

Starting June 10, 2026, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) will officially phase out physical motor vehicle logbooks in favor of a digital system called the e-Logbook. This reform, supported by the World Bank, aims to curb widespread fraud, eliminate bureaucratic delays, and modernize Kenya’s vehicle registration process.

Key Features of the e-LogbookeCitizen Integration: Vehicle owners can access and manage their logbooks through the eCitizen portal.Instant Verification: Digital logbooks will feature a dynamic QR code, digital encryption, and secure hashing, allowing buyers, banks, and insurers to instantly verify authenticity.Seamless Transactions: Ownership transfers and registrations will be completed online, with the e-Logbook generated immediately upon completion.Compliance Checks: The system will integrate with insurance, inspection, and PSV records, enabling law enforcement to verify compliance in real time without physical paperwork.

Benefits for StakeholdersVehicle Owners: Can download digital copies of their logbooks for free and avoid long waiting periods for physical documents.Lenders & Banks: Can register and discharge financial interests electronically, reducing the risk of unauthorized vehicle sales.Law Enforcement: Gains real-time access to accurate vehicle data, including insurance status and stolen vehicle alerts.Existing vehicle owners may need to update their records on the NTSA portal as part of a nationwide verification exercise to ensure their data is correctly migrated to the new digital repository.