Frequently Asked Questions
What is a road worthiness certificate in Africa?
A road worthiness (or roadworthy) certificate is an official document confirming that a vehicle meets minimum safety standards to be driven on public roads. It is issued by a government-approved inspection station after the vehicle passes a physical inspection of brakes, lights, tyres, steering, and safety equipment. Most African countries require it annually for vehicle registration renewal.
Where do I get a road worthiness certificate in Kenya?
In Kenya, inspection is done at NTSA-approved inspection centres. Major inspection centres include: Nairobi (Upper Hill, Thika, Mombasa Road), Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru. The inspection fee is KSh 500-2,000 depending on vehicle type. You need to book through the eCitizen portal. Vehicles must have valid insurance before presenting for inspection.
What are common reasons a vehicle fails roadworthiness in Africa?
Most common failures: (1) Worn tyres — tread depth below legal minimum (1.6mm). (2) Non-functional lights — headlights, brake lights, indicators. (3) Brake defects — spongy pedal, uneven braking. (4) Windscreen cracks or damage to driver's line of sight. (5) Missing safety equipment — fire extinguisher, first aid kit, warning triangles. (6) Excessive exhaust emissions. Address these before going for inspection to avoid re-test fees.