The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has announced a new traffic enforcement framework that will allow motorists to settle certain minor traffic offences without appearing in court.
The new system, which takes effect on June 1, 2026, will be implemented jointly by NTSA, the National Police Service (NPS), the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), and the Judiciary.
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According to NTSA, the reforms are aimed at streamlining traffic enforcement, reducing delays in traffic courts, and improving compliance with road safety regulations.
How the New System Will Work
Under the new framework, drivers accused of committing minor traffic offences will receive a Police Notification of Traffic Offence instead of being summoned to court immediately.
The offences may be detected either:
- During routine police enforcement operations
- Through traffic cameras and digital monitoring systems
Once evidence is collected, the notification will be issued to the driver or the registered vehicle owner.
How Notifications Will Be Sent
NTSA says motorists may receive the notifications through:
- Physical delivery by police officers
- Notices placed on vehicles
- SMS messages
- Approved digital enforcement platforms
The authority has urged motorists to update their vehicle registration contact details to avoid missing important notices.
Each notification will contain:
- Type of offence committed
- Date, time, and location
- Prescribed penalty
- Payment instructions
- Deadline for response
Options Available to Motorists
Motorists who receive the notification will have two options:
- Admit liability and pay the prescribed fine within the required period
- Challenge the offence in court
Drivers who choose to pay the fine will settle the matter without attending court, effectively creating an out-of-court settlement system for minor traffic violations.
However, NTSA noted that courts will still have powers to:
- Reduce or refund penalties in certain situations
- Apply demerit points to driving licences where necessary
Penalties for Ignoring Notifications
NTSA warned that motorists who fail to:
- Respond to notifications
- Pay fines
- Appear in court when required
could face tougher penalties imposed by courts.
The authority also stated that motorists will have the right to review evidence such as photos or video footage before deciding whether to pay or contest the offence.
Increased Use of Digital Enforcement
The new system will heavily rely on traffic surveillance cameras and digital monitoring technology alongside traditional police enforcement.
Authorities say the changes are intended to:
- Improve transparency
- Reduce human interference
- Enhance accountability on Kenyan roads
NTSA further assured the public that all personal data collected under the system will be handled in line with the Constitution and the Data Protection Act.
The authority had earlier withdrawn a March 27, 2026 notice proposing the operationalisation of the Instant Fines Management System, saying more clarification was needed on how minor traffic offences would be handled.
Source: The Star Kenya
