Motorists to Receive Traffic Offence Notices via SMS Under New NTSA Digital System

Kenyan motorists will now receive traffic offence notifications directly on their mobile phones under a new digital enforcement system rolled out by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA).

The framework, which took effect on June 1, 2026, marks a major shift from the traditional system where drivers accused of traffic offences were often required to appear in court. Instead, motorists who commit minor traffic violations can now be notified through SMS, email, or other approved digital platforms and allowed to settle prescribed fines without an immediate court appearance.

According to NTSA, the move is aimed at making traffic law enforcement faster, more efficient, and more convenient for both motorists and government agencies.

Under the new system, offences can be detected by traffic police officers during routine road operations or electronically through traffic cameras and digital monitoring technologies installed on roads.

“Offences can be detected either by police officers during routine enforcement or electronically via traffic cameras and other digital monitoring systems.”

Once a violation is detected, the motorist may receive a Police Notification of Traffic Offence through various channels, including SMS messages sent to the phone number registered with NTSA.

The authority has therefore urged vehicle owners to ensure that their contact information is accurate and up to date in the NTSA database to avoid missing important notifications.

“Under the new framework, motorists who commit any of the offences listed in the Traffic (Minor Offences) Rules 2016 will no longer need to appear in court immediately. Instead, they may receive a Police Notification of Traffic Offence.”

The SMS notifications will contain key details about the alleged offence, including where and when it occurred, the applicable fine, payment instructions, and the deadline for responding. Drivers will then have the option of admitting liability and paying the prescribed penalty or contesting the offence in court.

The introduction of SMS-based notifications is expected to reduce delays associated with physical notices and make it easier for authorities to communicate with motorists in real time. It is also expected to help improve compliance by ensuring drivers are informed promptly whenever an offence is recorded against them.

NTSA says the courts will continue to play an oversight role in cases where motorists choose to challenge allegations. The Judiciary will also retain powers to review penalties, issue refunds where appropriate, and impose demerit points in accordance with traffic regulations.

However, the authority warned that ignoring SMS notifications or failing to respond within the stipulated timelines could lead to tougher legal consequences. Motorists who fail to pay fines or attend court when required may face additional penalties imposed by the courts.

As the government expands the use of digital technology in public services, NTSA has sought to reassure motorists that personal information collected under the system will be protected. The authority said all data will be handled in line with the Constitution and the Data Protection Act.

The rollout of SMS traffic notifications signals a new era in traffic enforcement, with authorities banking on technology to improve compliance, reduce paperwork, and ease the burden on Kenya’s already congested traffic courts.