NTSA to Dispose of Uncollected Physical Logbooks After Six Months, Urges Motorists to Pick Them Up
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has announced that it will dispose of physical motor vehicle logbooks that remain uncollected for more than six months, urging vehicle owners to pick up their documents to avoid inconvenience.
In a public notice issued on Thursday, the authority said it will no longer store currently printed logbooks beyond the six-month period.
“After the six months period, all uncollected logbooks will be disposed of in accordance with the Authority’s policy,” NTSA said.
The authority called on motorists whose logbooks are still held at NTSA offices to collect them as soon as possible, noting that failure to do so could affect access to services that require proof of ownership.
According to the notice, clients seeking services that require a copy of a logbook will not be able to proceed without attaching the current original logbook to their applications.
NTSA also reminded motorists that collecting physical logbooks is free of charge but advised applicants to carry their previous logbook and identification documents to facilitate verification at collection centres.
The latest directive comes just a day after the authority announced the successful rollout of its new electronic logbook (eLogbook) system, marking a major shift in the management of vehicle ownership records.
“The NTSA system has now resumed normal operations following a successful transition to the eLogbook,” the authority said on June 10.
Under the new digital platform, motorists will no longer receive physical logbooks for newly registered vehicles or ownership transfers. Instead, vehicle ownership records will be available electronically through NTSA’s Transport Integrated Management System (TIMS) and eCitizen accounts.
The eLogbook is expected to allow users to view, verify, download and manage vehicle ownership records online at any time while reducing delays associated with printing and issuing physical documents.
NTSA has also said the system incorporates tamper-proof digital encryption designed to curb fraud, forgery and illegal vehicle transactions. Financial institutions such as banks, Saccos and insurance companies will be able to verify vehicle ownership and financing status instantly through the platform.
In addition, vehicle ownership transfers will now be processed entirely online, reducing paperwork and improving efficiency while minimizing opportunities for corruption. Motorists will also receive automated reminders for insurance renewals, inspections and other compliance requirements.
Despite the transition to digital records, NTSA has clarified that existing physical logbooks remain valid legal proof of ownership and should be retained by vehicle owners until otherwise advised.
The authority said all NTSA offices remain open from Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to facilitate logbook collection and provide assistance to members of the public.