The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has issued a notice to all importers of used motor vehicles ahead of new compliance rules that will take effect at the beginning of 2026.
In the announcement made on Tuesday, November 18, KEBS stated that from January 1, 2026, only right-hand-drive vehicles first registered on or after January 1, 2019, will be allowed into the country.
The agency emphasized that this aligns with the Kenya Standard Code of Practice for Inspection of Road Vehicles and the legal requirements guiding the verification of imports.
KEBS Announces Upcoming 2026 Compliance Requirements for Used Motor Vehicle Imports. Photo: Courtesy.
The eight-year age limit rule will continue to apply, meaning any vehicle older than this threshold will not qualify for importation.
KEBS further highlighted that all vehicles exported to Kenya must meet the Kenya Code of Practice for Inspection of Road Vehicles.
Vehicles coming from countries with authorized inspection agencies must also be accompanied by the required roadworthiness documents to ensure compliance.
KEBS also clarified that certificates of roadworthiness for vehicles first registered in 2018 will expire at the end of 2025.
The agency advised importers to ensure that any vehicle falling under this category reaches the country before the deadline to avoid complications.
The bureau noted that after December 31, 2025, no 2018-registered vehicle will be accepted, regardless of whether it previously had a valid certificate.
Any such vehicle arriving past the deadline will be rejected at the port of entry.
