The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued a strong public notice to all Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operators, owners, and drivers, demanding immediate compliance with regulatory standards set out in the Operations of Public Service Vehicles Regulations, 2014.

The directive, dated Tuesday, May 27, 2025, comes in response to widespread disregard for key provisions meant to ensure safety, transparency, and accountability in the public transport sector.

According to the NTSA, a significant number of commuter PSVs have been found in violation of regulations regarding vehicle branding and identification.

Many vehicles sport unauthorized graffiti and artistic enhancements that obscure the official name of the licensed Sacco or company, designated routes, and the mandatory yellow line that distinguishes licensed PSVs.

These modifications, the Authority warns, not only contravene the law but also erode public confidence by making it difficult to identify responsible operators.

The NTSA notice emphasizes that the name and brand identity of the licensed operator must always be the most visible marking on any PSV.

Any additional franchise or partnership branding must remain subordinate and not overshadow the primary operator’s identity.

Furthermore, the Authority has observed that some vehicles fail to display the official NTSA operational sticker or other required identification marks, hampering effective regulatory enforcement.

Operators are now required to conduct an immediate and comprehensive audit of their fleets. This includes ensuring that all vehicles clearly display the operator’s name on all sides in the prescribed format, maintaining uniform branding across the fleet, and removing any unauthorized decorations.

Drivers and conductors must also wear prescribed uniforms and carry valid driving licenses and PSV badges at all times. Additionally, any music played during journeys must comply with established volume limits.

The NTSA also highlighted issues with expired Road Service Licences (RSL), lapsed inspection certificates, and drivers operating without valid PSV badges.

Operators and drivers have been instructed to access the NTSA Service Portal to renew their documents and book vehicle inspections without delay.

Failure to comply will result in strict regulatory action, including vehicle impoundment, suspension or revocation of operating licenses, and withdrawal of access to NTSA services.

The Authority urges all stakeholders to take immediate corrective action to avoid these penalties and ensure the safety and integrity of Kenya’s public transport system.

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