NTSA to inspect all vehicles over four years old from July 1

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has announced that it will begin inspecting all motor vehicles more than four years old from July 1, 2026, as part of efforts to enhance road safety and ensure compliance with traffic regulations.

In a public notice issued by Director General Eng. Nashon Kondiwa, the Authority said vehicle owners will be required to book annual inspections through the NTSA service portal available on the eCitizen platform.

The Authority clarified that inspections of school transport vehicles and commercial service vehicles will continue to be conducted at NTSA inspection centres. Operators have been directed to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and display valid inspection stickers, which law enforcement officers will verify using the free NTSA Mobile App.

However, NTSA said enforcement of some new requirements introduced under the 2026 regulations will be deferred.

For school transport vehicles, enforcement of mandatory reflectorised red mechanical stop signal arms and telematic systems under the Traffic (School Transport) Rules, 2026, will be announced at a later date.

Similarly, for commercial service vehicles, implementation of the requirements for telematic systems and underride protection devices under the NTSA (Operations of Commercial Vehicles) Regulations, 2026, has been postponed pending further public communication.

Regarding private vehicles, NTSA noted that while inspections for vehicles older than four years will commence on July 1, enforcement of mandatory inspections for private motor vehicles will be communicated separately.

The Authority also cautioned motorists against seeking services from unauthorized inspection providers, emphasizing that it has not licensed any private entity to conduct motor vehicle inspections.

NTSA reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on corruption, urging members of the public to report any individuals claiming they can influence or fast-track NTSA services through unofficial channels.

Motorists seeking assistance were advised to access services through the official NTSA website, NTSA offices, Huduma Centre NTSA Help Desks, or the Authority’s verified social media platforms