If you’ve just bought a new car from the showroom or picked it up from Mombasa, congratulations. Usually after the purchase of a motor vehicle, number plates processing may take a little over a week to process.
So, it’s best to request a green KD registration plate when you pick up the vehicle.
However, before you hit the road, there are some important things you need to know about using the Green KD Plates to ensure your journey is both legal and safe.
KD Plates Meaning
The KD Plate is short for Kenya (Motor Vehicle) Dealer. It is a special number plate used by professionals in the motor trade industry involved in buying, selling and transporting vehicles.
The KD Plate is not something just anyone can use at free will and as such, it comes with many rules and regulations.
A Motor Trade Insurance policy provides the necessary insurance cover for those that deal with KD plates.
It’s designed to protect businesses that deal with vehicles regularly. It offers coverage tailored to the risks involved in the motor trade. For those not in this line of work, such insurance isn’t required.
Dealers typically have the option to choose between Third Party Road Risks Only cover or Comprehensive cover, depending on the value of the vehicles they handle.
For instance, a dealer might choose a comprehensive insurance based on the most valuable vehicle in their inventory.
However, most KD Plates on Kenyan roads today are covered only for third-party road risks, which protect the user against liabilities involving third parties.
Many local car dealers often rent out KD Plates to new car buyers for a fee.
Along with the plate, a movement pass is issued that includes details of the driver(s). Should any liability arise, the plate holder is responsible for lodging the claim, as it’s assumed the vehicle belongs to them.
However, note that this is never an official arrangement with the insuring company, and it can lead to complications if things go wrong.
In Mombasa, for example, KD Plates are frequently hired out to new car buyers at a rate of Sh. 5,000 for every four days.
This practice carries various heavy risks especially if the insurance provided isn’t up to par.
How to Safely Use a Green KD Plate
The Green KD Plate offers a temporary solution for moving your new car, it comes with responsibilities and risks.
When you’re about to drive your unregistered car with a KD Plate, the first thing you need to do is ensure that the plate is properly insured. Every KD Plate must have its own insurance cover.
Unfortunately, many dealers opt for cheaper, less comprehensive insurance policies, which might not provide the protection you’re comfortable with. Ensure you double-check the insurance details to make sure everything is legitimate.
Furthermore, the person driving the new car must have a valid driver’s license. This is non-negotiable. No license, no driving.
It’s also important to stick to the plan when it comes to your route. If the showroom has recorded that your car is being driven from Kiambu Road to Thika, that’s exactly where it should go.
What to look out for before purchasing a preowned vehicle
Taking scenic detours to areas not listed in your vehicle’s travel policy carries great risk. If an accident happens outside the designated area, you won’t receive compensation. It’s safer to wait for your official number plates before taking such risks.
Insurance is very important in KD plates. If your car gets stolen, catches fire, or is involved in an accident, and the KD Plate’s insurance isn’t valid, you could be left without coverage.
For added protection, consider getting insurance for your car using its chassis number. This extra step can give you peace of mind as you drive your unregistered vehicle.
Finally, make sure the driver of your car doesn’t carry any passengers, especially on roads like Mombasa Road, where risky driving habits are common. If an accident occurs, the absence of proper insurance coverage could leave you without any compensation.
When driving with KD plates, make sure you have all the necessary documents and permits with you. Traffic officers often stop these vehicles on Kenyan roads, and having the correct paperwork can save you from hefty fines. Stick to the rules as well to avoid unnecessary trouble.
Remember, your official number plate from the NTSA is typically processed within a week. There’s no need to keep driving around with a KD Plate for a whole month. Once your permanent plates are ready, swap them out and enjoy your new ride safely.