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Regulations for Importing a Car in Kenya

Many people prefer to import foreign used cars into the country as they are cheaper. Foreign used cars are also less worn down compared to locally used cars. This is because, foreign roads are better and so, are less weary on the vehicle. However, to import a car into the country certain regulations need to be followed.

Mainly, the vehicle must comply with the Kenya Bureau of Standards requirements of Legal Notice No. 78 of 15th July 2005 (Verification of Conformity to Kenya Standards Imports Order, 2005) and KS1515:2000 Kenya Standard Code of Practice for Inspection of Road Vehicles.

These state three major regulations:

A. Age Limit

All motor vehicles imported into the country must be 8 years or less from the year of Registration. This includes vehicles from the general public and returning residents. Additionally, the gap between the year of manufacture and the year of registration should be 1 year or less. Otherwise, the car cannot be imported in Kenya.

B. Right Hand Drive

Only Right-Hand Drive vehicles are allowed for registration in Kenya. This is unless they are for special purposes i.e. Ambulances, Fire Tenders, and large construction vehicles imported for projects and to be eventually donated to the Kenyan Government.

C. Road Worthiness

All used vehicles imported into Kenya shall be inspected for Road Worthiness, safety, and other requirements by a licensed KEBS affiliated inspection company in the country of export.

All imports of used motor vehicles including those belonging to returning residents, diplomats, and public servants must meet the above regulations. Additionally, there are documents that you will be required to have, and duties, taxes, and levies that you will be required to pay.

Seaways LTD is the leading logistics, freight forwarder, and customs broker in East Africa. We can help you chose the right car, make sure it complies with all regulations, handle the shipping and clearance process and deliver your vehicle to your doorstep.

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