NTSA Warns Parents Against Allowing Underage Children to Drive Vehicles
NTSA emphasised that the minimum legal driving age in Kenya is 18 years and that anyone allowed to operate a motor vehicle must have a valid driving licence.
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) cautions parents against allowing children below the age of 18 to drive their vehicles, warning that doing so is an offence under Kenyan law. Photo: Kenyans.co.ke
By Robert Mutasi
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has cautioned parents against allowing children below the age of 18 to drive their vehicles, warning that doing so is an offence under Kenyan law.
In a statement issued on Monday, November 2, the transport regulator urged parents to keep their vehicle keys away from underage children, even if they have some driving skills.
NTSA emphasised that the minimum legal driving age in Kenya is 18 years and that anyone allowed to operate a motor vehicle must have a valid driving licence.
“Don’t let your child become the next statistic. The minimum driving age in Kenya is 18 years. Allowing, or failing to prevent, an underage or unlicensed person from driving is an offence,” the authority stated.
The agency further called on parents to engage their children in road safety discussions, particularly during the school holidays when young people have more time at home and may be tempted to drive family vehicles.
NTSA advised parents to explain the dangers of underage driving and the potentially devastating consequences of road traffic accidents.
The authority also urged motorists to monitor the use of their vehicles and always know where their cars are to enhance accountability and prevent unauthorised access.
“Hold a road safety talk: Have a candid conversation with your children. Ensure they understand the consequences of underage driving and the devastating impact of road traffic crashes. Monitor vehicle use: Know exactly where your vehicles are at all times,” NTSA added.
The warning comes as authorities intensify road safety campaigns ahead of the festive season, when traffic volumes are expected to increase as families travel across the country.
With schools closed for the holidays, NTSA is concerned that some minors may take advantage of access to family vehicles despite lacking the legal requirements and experience needed to drive safely.
Under the Traffic Act, Cap 403, a driving licence or provisional licence cannot be issued to anyone below the age of 16. However, reaching 16 does not automatically qualify someone to drive a motor vehicle, as the minimum age for driving most motor vehicles remains 18 years.
The law also provides for different age requirements for certain categories of vehicles, including motorcycles.
In a previous incident, a parent was arrested after his seven-year-old son was found driving a vehicle. The parent was subsequently fined Ksh20,000 or faced a three-month jail term for allowing the minor to operate the vehicle.
NTSA has urged parents to take responsibility for preventing children from accessing vehicles, warning that a moment of negligence could expose young people and other road users to serious danger.
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