Motor insurance is mandatory in Kenya — but choosing the right policy can save you thousands of shillings while ensuring you're fully protected. Whether you're insuring your first car or upgrading your cover, this guide covers everything you need to know in 2025.
The Three Types of Motor Insurance in Kenya
1. Third Party Only (Legally Required)
The minimum legal requirement under Kenyan law. Covers injuries or death to other people, damage to third-party property, and legal costs. It does not cover damage to your own vehicle, theft, or your own injuries.
Average cost: Ksh 4,500 – 8,000 per year depending on vehicle type and engine size.
2. Third Party, Fire & Theft
Adds fire damage and vehicle theft to basic third-party cover. Popular with matatu owners and drivers of older vehicles who want extra peace of mind without paying full comprehensive rates.
Average cost: Ksh 12,000 – 20,000 per year for private cars.
3. Comprehensive Motor Insurance
The most complete protection available. Covers your own vehicle damage (accidents, vandalism, floods), fire, theft, personal accident benefits, windscreen damage, towing, and roadside assistance.
💰 Comprehensive Insurance Cost Calculator
Premiums are calculated as a percentage of your vehicle's current market value:
- Private cars: 3.5% – 5% of vehicle value per year
- Commercial vehicles: 5% – 7% of vehicle value per year
- Example: Ksh 1.5M car = Ksh 52,500 – 75,000 annual premium
NTSA Requirements & Legal Penalties
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) requires all vehicles to have a valid insurance certificate before registration or renewal. You must display the insurance sticker on your windscreen and carry proof of cover at all times.
⚠️ Penalty for no insurance: Ksh 10,000 fine or 3 months imprisonment. Your vehicle can also be impounded immediately by traffic police.
5 Factors That Affect Your Premium
- Vehicle value & age — newer, high-value vehicles cost more to insure
- Engine capacity (CC) — larger engines attract higher premiums
- Usage type — private use is cheapest; PSV/matatu is most expensive
- Location — Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu have higher risk rates
- Claims history — a 5-year no-claims record can save you up to 50%
Common Exclusions — What's NOT Covered
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Unlicensed drivers or drivers not listed on the policy
- Mechanical or electrical breakdowns
- Normal wear and tear
- Driving outside Kenya without a Comesa Yellow Card extension
- Using a private car commercially without declaring it
Get Your Motor Insurance Quote in 5 Minutes
Qubic Insurance compares rates from 9+ Kenyan insurers — AAR, Jubilee, CIC, Britam, and more — to find you the best deal.
How to Make a Successful Claim
- Report immediately — call your insurer within 24 hours and get a police abstract
- Document everything — photos of damage from multiple angles, witness details, other driver's info
- Submit your claim form — most Kenyan insurers now have online portals
- Vehicle assessment — an assessor inspects and estimates repair costs within 3–7 days
- Repair or cash settlement — approved garage (you pay excess only) or direct cash payment
Average settlement time: 14–30 days for standard claims, 60–90 days for complex cases.
Top Motor Insurers in Kenya (2025)
- Jubilee Insurance — fast claims, extensive garage network, best for private cars
- CIC General Insurance — competitive pricing, strong digital platforms, great for commercial vehicles
- Britam — large branch network, flexible payments, good for older vehicles
- AAR Insurance — premium service, high-value vehicles and expats
- APA Insurance — affordable, quick approvals, ideal for first-time car owners
Ready to Insure Your Vehicle?
Let Qubic Insurance handle the comparison. Get cover today and drive with confidence.
