The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has launched a Minor Traffic Offence Enforcement Framework, commonly known as the new digital or instant traffic fine system.
The framework, which took effect on 1 June 2026, was launched by NTSA in collaboration with the National Police Service, the Judiciary, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).
According to NTSA, the framework implements Sections 117 and 117A of the Traffic Act.
Road users who violate traffic safety rules will face the following fines and penalties:
PSV-specific offences
Public service vehicle (PSV) operators will face a wide range of fines and penalties if they violate road safety rules.
These include driving a PSV while unqualified, which attracts a Sh5,000 penalty, while operating a PSV with tinted windows or windscreens attracts a Sh3,000 fine. Failure to fit a speed governor in a PSV or commercial vehicle carries a Sh10,000 penalty.
Other PSV-related offences include touting, which attracts a Sh3,000 fine; employing an unlicensed driver or conductor, which attracts a Sh10,000 penalty; and allowing an unauthorised person to drive a PSV, which attracts a Sh3,000 fine.
Drivers who pick up or drop off passengers at unauthorised bus stops or terminals will be fined Sh3,000, while passengers who board or alight at non-designated points will be fined Sh1,000.
Failure by a PSV driver or conductor to wear a special badge and uniform attracts a Sh2,000 fine, while failure to carry functional fire extinguishers and fire safety kits in a PSV also attracts a Sh2,000 penalty.
Operators who fail to refund fares for incomplete journeys will be fined Sh3,000, while failure to ensure seat belts are in proper condition attracts a Sh500 penalty.
General vehicle offences
Driving without identification plates, or with improperly affixed plates, attracts a Sh10,000 fine. Operating a vehicle without a valid inspection certificate also attracts a Sh10,000 penalty.
Learner drivers who fail to display “L” plates on both the front and rear of their vehicles will be fined Sh1,000.
Failure to renew a driving licence attracts a Sh1,000 fine, while failing to carry and produce a driving licence on demand attracts the same penalty.
Driving without the appropriate licence endorsement attracts a Sh3,000 fine.
Seat belt violations attract a Sh500 fine for failing to wear a seat belt while the vehicle is in motion, while vehicle owners who fail to install seat belts properly will be fined Sh1,000 per seat.
Driving without a valid driving licence corresponding to the class of vehicle being driven attracts a Sh7,000 fine.
Driving while using a mobile phone attracts a Sh2,000 fine, while obstructing traffic through improper vehicle positioning attracts a Sh10,000 penalty.
Driving on pavements or pedestrian walkways attracts a Sh5,000 fine. Failing to obey police instructions attracts a Sh3,000 penalty, while failing to stop when directed by a police officer attracts a Sh5,000 fine.
Failure to display reflective triangles or warning signs when a vehicle is obstructing traffic attracts a Sh3,000 fine.
Motorist offences
For private and commercial motorists, NTSA has outlined several offences related to vehicle documentation, safety, and driver conduct.
Motorcycle riders and passengers who ride without protective gear will each be fined Sh1,000.
Speeding offences will attract graduated penalties depending on the severity of the violation. Exceeding the speed limit by 1–5 kph will result in a warning; 6–10 kph will attract a Sh500 fine; 11–15 kph will attract a Sh3,000 fine; and 16–20 kph will attract a Sh10,000 penalty.
Pedestrian offences
Pedestrians who wilfully obstruct traffic will be fined Sh500, while travelling with any part of the body outside a moving vehicle attracts a Sh1,000 penalty.
New enforcement framework
The updated NTSA framework detects offences through electronic monitoring systems, such as traffic cameras, as well as routine police patrols.
Motorists will receive notifications of traffic offences via SMS, email, or other digital platforms. The notifications will include details of the offence, the location, prescribed penalties, and response deadlines.
Once notified of a violation, motorists must either pay the prescribed fine within the stipulated period or appear in court to challenge the allegations.
Failure to respond or pay the penalties will result in more severe consequences.
NTSA has urged drivers to update their contact details in the vehicle registration database to ensure the timely receipt of notifications.
– Compiled by Regan Oluoch
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