For anyone operating in Kenya’s public transport sector, obtaining a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) badge and license is mandatory. The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has simplified the application process by making it available online through the Transport Integrated Management System (TIMS) portal. This digital platform ensures that PSV drivers can easily access their licenses without lengthy paperwork or physical visits to NTSA offices.
A PSV license is a legal document that authorizes drivers to transport passengers for profit. According to the law, operating a PSV without the required license or serving as a conductor without one is a serious offense, attracting a fine of up to Ksh50,000, imprisonment for up to one year, or both. This makes compliance not just a regulatory requirement, but a safeguard against legal consequences.
Preconditions for Application
Before applying, drivers must meet several requirements:
- Hold a valid driving license under the B3 category.
- Possess a valid certificate of good conduct from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
- Have a medical certificate confirming fitness to drive.
- Make the required payment via eCitizen.
Step-by-Step Application Process
To begin, applicants must log in to their TIMS account through the NTSA website using their eCitizen credentials, ID number, phone number, and password. First-time users must register and activate their accounts before proceeding.
Once logged in, drivers should navigate to the “Driving Licence” section and select the “Apply for PSV Badge” option. The system will prompt for details such as the National ID, driving license number, and a recent passport photo. Applicants must then upload supporting documents, including the certificate of good conduct and medical certificate.
After uploading the documents, payment is made electronically. Once validated, the PSV badge is generated immediately in PDF format and can be downloaded from the portal. The cost varies depending on the vehicle category being licensed.
With a PSV badge, drivers are officially cleared to operate in the public transport industry. This badge serves as proof that the driver has been vetted and authorized, ensuring safety and professionalism across matatus, buses, taxis, and other passenger vehicles.
