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Importing guide

How to import a car to Kenya

Last reviewed 30 October 2026

A used car imported to Kenya must be right-hand drive and no more than eight years old from its year of first registration. In 2026 that means a vehicle first registered in 2019 or later. You also pay import taxes calculated on the vehicle's customs value before it can be released and registered.

The steps

  1. 1. Confirm the vehicle qualifies

    Check the year of first registration and that it is right-hand drive before paying anything.

  2. 2. Estimate the full landed cost

    Add the purchase price, shipping, insurance, taxes, clearing and registration, not just the price abroad.

  3. 3. Buy and arrange inspection

    Used vehicles go through pre-shipment inspection in the exporting country for KEBS.

  4. 4. Ship the vehicle

    Keep the bill of lading, purchase invoice, export certificate and inspection certificate together.

  5. 5. Clear customs

    Your clearing agent lodges the documents with KRA and the taxes are paid before release.

  6. 6. Register the vehicle

    After clearance the vehicle is registered with NTSA and a Kenyan logbook is issued.

Common questions

How old can an imported used car be in Kenya?
No more than eight years old from the year of first registration. In 2026 that means a vehicle first registered in 2019 or later. KEBS applies the rule by calendar year.
Can I import a left-hand-drive car to Kenya?
Generally no. Kenya admits right-hand-drive vehicles only, so confirm any special exemption with KEBS and KRA before you buy.
What taxes do you pay to import a car to Kenya?
Import duty, excise duty, VAT at 16%, the Import Declaration Fee and the Railway Development Levy. They are calculated on the customs value of the vehicle, and each tax builds on the ones before it. Excise depends on engine size. Rates change, so confirm them with KRA or your clearing agent.
Can Rockland Auto import a car for me?
Yes. Rockland Auto sources the vehicle and coordinates the purchase, shipping, documentation and clearance. The scope and costs are agreed with you upfront.

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This guide is general information. Rules and rates change, so confirm them with KEBS, KRA and NTSA before you commit to a purchase.