Documents You Need to Buy a Car in Kenya

To buy a used car in Kenya and put it legally in your name, you'll need the logbook, both parties' IDs and KRA PINs, a signed sale agreement, and to complete the NTSA transfer of ownership through TIMS. Getting these right protects you from buying a stolen or loan-encumbered car.

Here's exactly what each side needs to provide, and how the transfer works.

What the seller should provide

The original logbook (vehicle registration certificate) in their name.
A copy of their national ID and KRA PIN.
Confirmation there is no financier/charge (logbook loan) on the car.
Their NTSA TIMS account to initiate the transfer.

What you (the buyer) need

Your national ID and KRA PIN.
An NTSA TIMS account to accept the transfer.
A signed sale agreement capturing the price, car details, and both parties' details.
Funds via a traceable payment method.

Completing the transfer

Ownership transfer is done through NTSA's TIMS system: the seller initiates the transfer and the buyer accepts it, after which the logbook is updated to your name. Keep copies of the sale agreement, IDs, and payment receipts. Verify the current NTSA process and fees before you start, as these can change.

A simple safeguard

Line up payment with the transfer rather than ahead of it. The cleanest deals complete the money and the TIMS transfer together, so neither side is exposed. If a seller won't transfer ownership properly, walk away — the documents are what make the car legally yours.

What documents do I need to transfer a car logbook in Kenya?

Both parties need their national ID and KRA PIN and NTSA TIMS accounts. You'll also want a signed sale agreement. The seller initiates the transfer on TIMS and the buyer accepts it, updating the logbook to the new owner.

Do I need a KRA PIN to buy a car in Kenya?

Yes. A KRA PIN is required for vehicle registration and transfer of ownership in Kenya, for both the buyer and the seller.

Do I need an NTSA TIMS account to buy a car?

Yes. Transfer of ownership is done through NTSA's TIMS portal, so both the buyer and seller need TIMS accounts — the seller initiates the transfer and the buyer accepts it.

By Garisea Research Team. Published 12 June 2026. This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice — verify current requirements and prices before you buy.