Import Regulations & Age Limits
Kenya strictly enforces an 8-year age limit on all imported passenger cars. The age is calculated from the year of first registration. Additionally, the vehicle must be Right-Hand Drive (RHD) unless it is a specialized utility vehicle. Left-Hand Drive (LHD) passenger cars cannot be registered for road use in Kenya.
KEBS Pre-Export Inspection (PVoC)
Before shipping from China, all used vehicles must pass a roadworthiness inspection by a KEBS-authorized agency (such as QISJ or EAA). The inspection verifies emission levels, mechanical safety, and document consistency. If a vehicle arrives at the Port of Mombasa without a Certificate of Conformity (CoC), it will face heavy penalties and compulsory local inspection at the owner's expense.
Duty & Tax Structure (KRA)
Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) taxes imported used vehicles based on the Current Retail Selling Price (CRSP) template. Taxes include: 25% Import Duty, 20% to 35% Excise Duty (based on engine capacity), 16% VAT, 3.5% Import Declaration Fee (IDF), and 2% Railway Development Levy (RDL). Total landed taxes can range from 50% to 70% of the vehicle's customs value.
Required Documentation Checklist
To ensure smooth customs clearance at Mombasa, the buyer must present: 1) Original Bill of Lading (B/L). 2) Original Logbook from China (translated to English). 3) Export Deregistration Certificate. 4) KEBS QISJ Certificate of Roadworthiness. 5) Commercial Invoice & Packing List. 6) KRA PIN Certificate and National Identity Card / Passport copy.