NTSA Explains Hitch in Online Driver Testing & Licensing After Uproar

A collage of the NTSA portal login page (left) and motorists stuck in traffic in Nairobi (right).
A collage of the NTSA portal login page (left) and motorists stuck in traffic in Nairobi (right).
Photo
NTSA

UPDATE Saturday, April 1:  NTSA announced that the system had been restored urging all clients to visit the online platform to access services.

"We reiterate our commitment to providing quality and efficient services to our clients as we progress our digital transformation agenda aimed at enhancing road safety," the authority affirmed.


The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) on Wednesday, March 29, explained why motorists were unable to access two key services on the Transport Integrated Management System (TIMS) platform.

In a statement, the authority detailed that there was a scheduled system data migration from old to new servers.

Due to the shift motorists were unable to access Driver Testing and Licensing Services through its website: tims(dot)ntsa(dot)go(dot)ke.

"Our technical team is working to resolve the issue. We apologise for the inconvenience caused," read part of the statement.

A photo of printed out smart DL as shared by NTSA on February 19, 2023.
A photo of printed out smart DL as shared by NTSA on February 19, 2023.
Photo
NTSA

However, the authority detailed that other services relating to motor vehicle registration, transfer of ownership, motor vehicle inspection, application, and renewal of licenses to enable the operation of driving schools, and public service vehicles were still available online.

Earlier, motorists had lamented over the unavailability of the services on the online platform.

"Is the NTSA portal working?", one social media user questioned.

"What's wrong with the NTSA portal?" another posed.

"Why is the TIMS website down, it is not working." another added.

Notably, other services offered by NTSA online include motor vehicle registration services, PSV license services, driving school management, and official correspondence - which remained unaffected by the hitch.

Recently NTSA announced an update in the smart driving application process where the applicants were not required to undergo the biometric process.

"All applicants are assured that they will receive their driving licenses after five working days from the centre identified through the application process," NTSA affirmed.

Applicants are advised to visit its website; www(dot)ntsa(dot)go(dot)ke and head to the 'Online Services menu before selecting the required services.

The new smart DLs have a chip that holds the motorists' information and works on a point system.

It comes with 100 points which are deducted anytime the driver commits a traffic offence, it is canceled when the points get to 40.

Photo collage between police officers controlling traffic flow and a screenshot of how to register on NTSA's TIMS account captured on March 18, 2023.
Photo collage between police officers controlling traffic flow and a screenshot of how to register on NTSA's TIMS account captured on March 18, 2023.
Photo
NTSA
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