Matatu and PSV Rules in Kenya

Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) including matatus, buses, and tuk-tuks are regulated by NTSA under the Traffic Act. These rules exist to protect passengers and other road users on routes like Thika Road, Mombasa Road, and Ngong Road where matatu traffic is heaviest.

Every PSV must have a valid NTSA inspection sticker (TLB), speed governor set to 80 km/h, and a functioning seat belt for every passenger. The driver must hold a valid PSV licence (class BCE or above). Conductors must wear an NTSA-issued badge.

Matatus are restricted to a maximum speed of 80 km/h on all roads, including highways. They must not carry standing passengers and must not exceed the licensed passenger capacity. Overloading is one of the most common violations on routes serving Eastlands, Rongai, and Kiambu. Drivers of private vehicles should maintain extra following distance behind matatus, as they frequently stop without warning to pick up or drop off passengers.