Applying for a Driving License in Kenya: Your Updated Guide 🚦

If you’re thinking of getting a driving license in Kenya, you’re in the right place. This guide walks you through everything—eligibility, types of license, costs, how to apply online, tests, renewal, and helpful tips to avoid delays. Everything is current as of 2025-2026 under the NTSA & TIMS systems.

Overview: Entities & Systems You Need to Know

• NTSA (National Transport & Safety Authority): The main government body in charge of licensing, regulation, tests, and enforcement.
• TIMS (Transport Integrated Management System): The online portal for licence applications, payments, appointments, and renewals.
• eCitizen: Kenya’s general government services platform, connects to many NTSA services.

Types of Driving Licenses in Kenya

Depending on your purpose, vehicle type, and experience, you may apply for:

• Provisional Driving License (PDL): For learners. Allows you to practice under supervision while you undergo training and after passing the theory test.
• Interim Driving License (IDL): Issued once you pass both theory and practical tests. Valid short-term until you get the full smart license.
• Smart Driving License: The modern licence card with chip, enhanced security. Valid for 3 years (or 1 year if being renewed in some cases).
• Duplicate License: If your licence is lost, stolen, damaged or defaced.
• Class Endorsement: If you want to drive a different class of vehicle (e.g. heavy vehicle, motorcycle, PSV).

Eligibility Requirements

• Age: You must be ≥ 18 years for most vehicle types; for motorcycles there are lower thresholds. Some classes (PSV, heavy) require being older, and having prior licensing experience. NTSA has specific minimum ages per class.
• Medical fitness: Good vision (with glasses if needed), physically and mentally fit to drive. If you have health issues, you may need a medical certificate.
• Valid ID & KRA PIN: You’ll need a valid national ID card and a Kenya Revenue Authority PIN for online systems.
• Training: Enrol in a certified driving school to take theory and practical training.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Create/Log in to your TIMS / NTSA / eCitizen Account: Register on the TIMS portal (via NTSA TIMS portal) if you haven’t. Provide your ID number, contact information, KRA PIN, and other personal details.
2. Choose the License Type: Decide whether you're applying for a Provisional Driving License (for learners) or upgrading/applying for a Smart Driving License.
3. Pay the Required Fee: The fee depends on the license type. For example, the 3-year smart driving license fee is ~KES 3,050. Payment can be made via M-Pesa, debit/credit card, or bank transfer, through the TIMS/NTSA portal.
4. Book an Appointment: After payment, you’ll schedule an appointment at an NTSA service centre or a Huduma Centre that handles smart licenses. You’ll attend for the biometric enrolment and submission of required documents.
5. Attend the Test (if applicable): For new drivers or those adding classes, you’ll need to pass both the theory test and practical driving test. Bring your PDL, training school certificate, and any other required documentation.
6. Undergo Biometric Enrolment: On the appointment day, NTSA captures your photo, fingerprints, and signature. Your old licence (if renewing) and national ID are required.
7. Collect Smart License: After processing, you’ll receive an SMS or notification to collect your smart driving license at the chosen center. Processing time may vary by location, typically a few weeks.

Fees & Validity Periods

Renewal, Replacement & Endorsement

• Renewal: Before your current license expires, you can renew via TIMS or eCitizen. Validity may be 1 or 3 years depending on license class.
• Replacement (Duplicate): If lost, stolen or damaged. You’ll fill forms, pay a fee, provide copy of ID, and undergo biometric capture if needed.
• Endorsements / Upgrading Classes: Want to add ability to drive heavy goods, PSV, etc.? You’ll usually need extra training, test for the new class, and pay endorsement fees.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

• Incomplete or incorrect information when registering in TIMS (e.g., misspelled name or wrong ID number) → delays.
• Not uploading the right document types or poor quality scans/photos.
• Failure to attend booked appointment or test without rescheduling in time.
• Using unaccredited driving school → some licences/tests rejected if training not recognized.
• Not keeping proof of payment or confirmation receipts safe.

Useful Tips for a Smoother Process

• Start early—some processing offices are busy, so bookings may take time.
• Ensure to use a certified & well-reviewed driving school.
• Check when your current license expires so you can renew ahead.
• Keep electronic copies of all relevant documents (ID, PDL, old drive license, medical certificate if needed).
• Pay attention to announcements from NTSA for system downtimes or fee changes.

Where to Apply & Collect License

You can apply and collect your smart driving license at NTSA offices or Huduma Centres that offer licensing services. Ensure the centre is authorized to do biometric enrolment and smart card issuance. You can find a list on the official NTSA site: Individual Services.

Legal Requirements & Penalties

• Driving without a valid driving license (or provisional license when required) is illegal and can attract fines or other penalties.
• You must always carry your license or permit when driving, and produce it if requested by traffic officers.
• If medical conditions change, especially vision or hearing, you may need to report and seek re-assessment.

Key External Resources

For the most accurate and updated details, visit the NTSA Driving License page and Huduma Kenya’s Smart Driver’s License service. These are official sources for fees, requirements and service counters.

Final Thoughts

Getting your driving license in Kenya is more streamlined than ever thanks to online systems like TIMS and eCitizen. Plan ahead, ensure you meet all requirements, use reputable driving schools, and track your application status diligently. Safe driving begins with being fully licensed and informed!