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As the Kenyan government moves forward with the plan to impose stiffer fines for traffic offences, motorists should expect stricter traffic regulations, such as mandatory car inspections and alcohol checks.

Transport Cabinet Secretary (CS) Davis Chirchir has now asked the public for feedback on the anticipated effects of the regulations, which were previously opposed by organisations including the Kenya Human Rights Commission.

The new rules are contained in the Traffic (Motor Vehicle Inspection) Rules 2025, the Operation of Commercial Service Vehicles Rules 2025, the Traffic (School Transport) Rules 2025 and the Traffic (Drink-Driving) Rules 2025.

"The public and all individuals who may be affected by the proposed rules and regulations are requested to submit written memoranda to the undersigned within 14 days from the date of this notice's publication," Chirchir stated in a gazette notice dated Wednesday, June 18.

If the Traffic (Motor Vehicle Inspection) Rules 2025 are implemented in their current version, all commercial, educational, and public service vehicles, as well as motor vehicles older than four years, will be required to undergo inspections.

Private vehicle owners currently pay KSh 1,000 to the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) for inspection services.

However, the ministry did not disclose the costs in the new regulations, which are expected to increase.

Furthermore, private car testing facilities and inspectors will be licensed and regulated under the automotive inspection regulations, and standard stickers will be provided following the procedure.

In contrast to the current practice, which leaves the limit up to the discretion of traffic police officers, the Traffic (Drink Driving) Rules, 2025, will "prescribe legal alcohol limits" for drivers.

Additionally, drivers are prohibited from operating a vehicle while intoxicated beyond the limitations that would be set under the new drink-driving regulations.

The state intends to resume alcohol testing using authorised breathalysers, blood, and urine samples to assess the degree of intoxication.

The planned Traffic (School Transport) Rules, 2025, suggest a licensing system for school transport providers and vehicles.

The proposed laws mandate minimum safety standards and vehicle requirements, such as seat belts, fire extinguishers, and telemetry systems.

This step indicates higher compliance costs for vehicles that do not have any of these features.

The school transport regulations, if passed in the current form, will also forbid using school transport vehicles for private, unauthorised activities without a temporary license.

In other news, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) shared a new tax schedule to calculate the importation of used cars.

The revised schedule, according to the taxman, will be implemented on July 1, 2025, following significant stakeholder engagement.

Kenyan car importers warned of job losses following the increased taxes.

Source: TUKO.co.ke