The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has announced that certain special-purpose vehicles will be permitted into the country even if they exceed the eight-year age limit, provided they meet a strict set of conditions.

The concession applies to vehicles that have been customised for specific industrial, emergency, or technical functions and would otherwise be barred under Kenya Standard KS 1515:2000, which restricts the importation and registration of vehicles older than eight years from the date of first registration.

The standard also prohibits left-hand drive (LHD) imports.

In a notice issued to stakeholders, KEBS confirmed that the exemption would apply only to units that are both technically suitable and operationally necessary.

“Special-purpose vehicles that are over eight (8) years old and/or Left-Hand Drive (LHD) may be allowed entry into the country, subject to the fulfilment of the following conditions: Proof of customization, Provision of a record of serviceability, Evidence that the vehicle is no more than 20 years old from the year of manufacture,” the notice read.

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The agency stated that exemptions will not be automatic and must be applied for in advance. Importers are required to demonstrate the vehicle’s custom-built nature and provide supporting documentation, including a full service history and evidence of operational capability.

To assist with the process, KEBS has published detailed waiver requirements on its website.

“Details regarding the waiver requirements for the importation of special-purpose vehicles are available on www.kebs.org, and all stakeholders are advised to review and familiarise themselves with these requirements prior to initiating any importation process,” the agency advised.

KEBS also cautioned importers against proceeding with shipments before obtaining the necessary waivers, noting that doing so could result in clearance delays or rejection at the port of entry.

“All importers of special purpose vehicles are encouraged to apply for and obtain the requisite waivers before shipping the said units into the country to avoid inconveniences,” the statement added.

Established under the Standards Act, Cap. 496, KEBS is the national body tasked with enforcing quality and conformity standards.

he partial relaxation of the age limit is aimed at balancing public interest with operational needs for vehicles used in specialised functions such as firefighting, emergency rescue, construction, and infrastructure support.